How to identify a first printing
- Copyright page states later printings; first printings carry the copyright line alone or 'First edition' / a printing line. Modern titles use a number line where '1' = first printing.
- Midland Books is the paperback line — typically a later issue, not the original first edition.
- Revised editions are dated and numbered.
Notable points & cautions
- Midland Books paperbacks reissue cloth first editions — confirm whether a paperback is the true first appearance or a reprint.
- Standard academic later-printing-noted convention for older books.
Imprints
First editions also appear under: Midland Books, Quarry Books, Well House Books. Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Indiana University Press book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. Copyright page states later printings; first printings carry the copyright line alone or 'First edition' / a printing line. Modern titles use a number line where '1' = first printing. Midland Books is the paperback line — typically a later issue, not the original first edition.
Does Indiana University Press use a number line?
Midland Books is the paperback line — typically a later issue, not the original first edition.
Is a book-club edition a Indiana University Press first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Midland Books paperbacks reissue cloth first editions — confirm whether a paperback is the true first appearance or a reprint.
What era does this cover?
This covers Indiana University Press (1950–present). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.