A discussion with various internet links and other information was part of a classified ad. They have been carried over to the general discussion area so that the information is not lost with the removal of the ad.
I had done the basic web search and though it doesn't turn up very much background information about Serres, it does offer a source or two that mention the Stamp Magazine article from 2006. I have hopes that this article will help flesh out the artist a bit.
I hadn't thought of the APS library as a resource for this. I haven't used it before, but I was struck by the fact that, even though I'm an APS member, this three-page article would cost me at least $10. Plus, if I want the three pages scanned, I have to add $4.50 to that base cost (at least that's how I read it). (I also wonder whether the APRL will actually make a copy - not sure how it reads the copyright law on this.)
Anyway, it would be nice to get to read the piece for something less than $10. But it may come to that.
Jim,
I have used the APRL scan service before. I was charged $4.00 for the first page and .25 for each additional page. I had them email me the scans, saved time and money. These were scans from three different journals.
15 pages total $7.50
first page $4.00
fourteen additional pages @ .25 each - $3.50
If there are more articles you want scanned put them in one order to save money. Just make sure it will not involve a lot of the staff's time or you can start paying by the Hour in 1/2 hour increments.
Extensive Photocopies/
Research Requests:
After the initial 15 minutes included in the base fee, $20 per hour, billed in half-hour increments
If you live within a few hours drive it is worth visiting the Match Factory. You can make all the copies you want, minimum charge for using their copying machine.
Hope this clears things up for you. If you have any other questions about The Library check out the APS web site of just give them a call. They are always very helpful.
The APRL truly provides an amazing service and, Vince, your explanation of the charges was spot on. I now really recommend that anyone doing philatelic-related background research consider running queries through the APRL catalog to see what the library can make available to you:
The second one above draws nicely from the Stamp Magazine article, prompting my search. The last one above allows the user to extract information from a database built by John Armstrong of many engravers and designers and their stamp issues (includes images). It's quite impressive and was a useful starting place (it's not comprehensive) as I put together my own list of French stamps designed or engraved by Serres. I then did a tedious walk through my Stanley Gibbons France catalogue to verify and supplement.
