007s Early Manuscripts at Indiana University

Ian Fleming’s early manuscripts on the fictional British secret service agent James Bond are on display at Indiana University in the US.

The Lilly Library at the university houses the typewritten manuscripts and first editions of Bond books, along with the author’s collection of rare books, an accomplishment he was known for in academic circles before he became famous for 007.

Fleming (1908-1964) is well known today as the literary creator of master spy James Bond, but long before Bond, he was a collector of rare books, and his collection, along with his specially-bound corrected typescripts of the Bond novels and the first published editions are currently on display, according to the website of the varsity, Indiana.edu.

Fleming’s collection, which was remarkable both in its conception and scope, focused on nineteenth and twentieth century books that had started something, from landmarks in science and technology to instructional volumes on sports and games.

Director of Lilly Library Joel Silver is the curator of the exhibit. He has made significant academic contributions with his scores of published articles, multiple books and numerous exhibition catalogs. He has a distinguished record as a lecturer and leader of workshops on rare books, and has curated many exhibitions at the Lilly Library.

The exhibit also showcases items related specifically to the Bond films. It will run through March 2, 2018.