How to Find Bookplates (Ex Libris) and What Makes Them Different

If you love collecting vintage books or personalizing your home library, you’ve probably come across the term bookplate or ex libris. But what are they exactly—and are they the same thing? Whether you're a seasoned collector or just getting started, this post will help you understand the difference between bookplates and ex libris, and where to find these beautiful pieces of book history.

What is a Bookplate?

A bookplate is a small decorative label pasted inside the front cover of a book to show ownership. Think of it as a name tag for your books, often printed with ornate designs, family crests, or literary motifs. These labels add a touch of personalization and often become tiny works of art in themselves.

Bookplates first appeared in the 15th century, shortly after the invention of the printing press. They were originally used by wealthy bibliophiles to mark their collections. Over the centuries, they’ve become a collectible category all their own.

What Does "Ex Libris" Actually Mean?

"Ex libris" is Latin for “from the library of.” You’ll often see this phrase at the top of a bookplate, followed by the name of the book’s owner. In essence, all ex libris are bookplates—but not all bookplates necessarily use the phrase “ex libris.”

Some modern bookplates skip the Latin entirely and go straight to the owner’s name or a custom message. Others might feature quotes, artwork, or symbols that speak to the owner’s personality or profession. While the term “bookplate” describes the object, “ex libris” refers to the purpose.

Where to Find Bookplates and Ex Libris

If you're looking to collect or use bookplates, here are a few good places to start:

• Antiquarian Bookshops – Many secondhand bookstores carry vintage books with original bookplates still inside.

• Etsy and eBay – A wide selection of both modern and antique bookplates are available from individual sellers.

• Book Fairs – Local and national book fairs often have dealers who specialize in book ephemera.

• Library Sales – Sometimes overlooked, library and estate sales can turn up beautiful old books with custom ex libris.

• @bookplatearchive on Instagram – We love ex libris so much that we recently launched a dedicated Instagram account to showcase unique and historical bookplates that we've found. Follow us to see what’s new and share your own!

Why Collect Bookplates?

Collectors love bookplates not only for their beauty but also for the stories they tell. A well-designed ex libris can give insight into the past owner’s identity, social status, or artistic taste. For many, they’re more than just labels—they’re a peek into literary history.

Final Thoughts

Bookplates and ex libris may seem like niche interests, but they open up a world of personal expression and historical curiosity. Whether you’re marking your own collection or uncovering the legacy of someone else’s, these little labels make books even more special.

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