How to identify a first printing
- Modern titles carry a number line on the copyright page; lowest number present = printing ('1' = first).
- First printings otherwise show only the copyright line; later printings/editions noted.
- Revised editions explicitly dated and numbered.
Notable points & cautions
- Strong cultural-studies, queer-theory, and Latin American studies list; heavily reprinted theory titles keep the same copyright year — rely on the number line.
- Standard academic convention.
Imprints
First editions also appear under: Console-ing Passions series, Latin America Otherwise series. Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Duke University Press book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. Modern titles carry a number line on the copyright page; lowest number present = printing ('1' = first). First printings otherwise show only the copyright line; later printings/editions noted.
Does Duke University Press use a number line?
First printings otherwise show only the copyright line; later printings/editions noted.
Is a book-club edition a Duke University Press first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Strong cultural-studies, queer-theory, and Latin American studies list; heavily reprinted theory titles keep the same copyright year — rely on the number line.
What era does this cover?
This covers Duke University Press (1921–present). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.