Lionel Casson's 'Libraries in the Ancient World' offers a captivating journey through the origins and evolution of libraries, tracing their development from humble collections of cuneiform tablets and papyrus scrolls to the monumental institutions of the Hellenistic and Roman eras. This meticulously researched work explores the crucial role these centers played in preserving knowledge, fostering intellectual life, and shaping ancient societies. Casson illuminates the lives of scribes, scholars, and patrons, providing vivid insights into the architecture, organization, and daily operations of iconic libraries like Alexandria and Pergamon. It's an essential read for anyone interested in the history of books, scholarship, and the enduring legacy of ancient learning.