How to identify a first printing
- Letterpress limited editions (Covelo, California); printed colophon with stated limitation, frequently SIGNED by the author and/or illustrator
- Original commissioned art, fine papers; deluxe vs. standard states distinguished by binding and extra signed prints stated in the colophon
- No number line — signed/numbered colophon identifies
Notable points & cautions
- Founded 1975 by James and Carolyn Robertson in Covelo, CA (named for the Yolla Bolly mountains); noted for collaborations issuing signed limited editions of contemporary American writers (e.g., Wallace Stegner, Wendell Berry, Barry Lopez)
- Author-signed colophons make these desirable association-quality firsts of the limited issue
- Some titles produced for trade publishers in a deluxe limited concurrent state
- Distinct from other California fine presses (Grabhorn/Arion) — a later, photo-offset-and-letterpress operation
Imprints
First editions also appear under: James & Carolyn Robertson (founders). Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Yolla Bolly Press book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. Letterpress limited editions (Covelo, California); printed colophon with stated limitation, frequently SIGNED by the author and/or illustrator Original commissioned art, fine papers; deluxe vs. standard states distinguished by binding and extra signed prints stated in the colophon
Does Yolla Bolly Press use a number line?
Original commissioned art, fine papers; deluxe vs. standard states distinguished by binding and extra signed prints stated in the colophon
Is a book-club edition a Yolla Bolly Press first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Founded 1975 by James and Carolyn Robertson in Covelo, CA (named for the Yolla Bolly mountains); noted for collaborations issuing signed limited editions of contemporary American writers (e.g., Wallace Stegner, Wendell Berry, Barry Lopez)
What era does this cover?
This covers Yolla Bolly Press (1975–c.2008). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.