Author: Edmund Lester Pearson

Edmund Lester Pearson (1880–1937), an American librarian and author, was renowned for his works that often combined wit and erudition, reflecting his deep knowledge of librarianship and literature. Born in Newburyport, Massachusetts, Pearson graduated from Harvard in 1902 and later attended the New York State Library School at Albany, launching his career as a librarian—a profession that would greatly influence his literary endeavors. His most recognized book, “The Librarian at Play” (1911), is emblematic of his literary style, which merges humorous anecdotes with perceptive insights, providing readers with both entertainment and informed commentary on library science and its societal role. Pearson was adept at blending the light-hearted with the scholarly, making his writing accessible to a broad audience while maintaining intellectual rigor. Additionally, he contributed to the genre of true crime, with works like “Studies in Murder” (1924), demonstrating his versatility as a writer. Pearson”s essays and books are a testament to his erudite wit and serve as a bridge between the world of literature and the practice of librarianship. His contributions to early 20th-century American letters, particularly within the realm of bibliographic and literary criticism, have earned him a respected place in literary and library circles.