Old Computer Books (was Re: Pets & Silly Game)

From: Doug Spence <ds_spenc_at_alcor.concordia.ca>
Date: Mon Apr 28 04:51:50 1997

On Thu, 24 Apr 1997, Starling wrote:

> I've found that one of the best sources for old computer books and
> magazines is often overlooked... the LIBRARY. Most public libraries have
> a nice collection of books on old personal computers from the 1st wave of
> PC popularity (early 80s).

Actually, I've become fairly well acquainted with the old computer book
collection of the university library here. They do have some great books,
including a couple on the KIM-1. It was from library books that I learned
how to use CP/M. But the only PET books this library has are things like
collections of type-in programs for the PET, and books on using the PET in
an educational environment. Nothing good and technical.

Possibly the coolest thing apart from the book on KIM-1 interfacing
projects, though, is the book the library has on the Memotech MTX512's
BASIC. I borrowed that one and ended up typing up a small manual into an
AmigaGuide document in case I ever should run across such a beast.

> I know that my hometown (Austin, TX) has a
> huge collection of books with titles like "6502 Assembly Projects" and
> "1001 things to do with your PET". Plus, most libraries archive
> magazines. My university has a full set of many computer magazines that
> have been around since the 70s such as Byte.

My university's library had a whole floor dedicated to periodicals, but
that library was closed and I haven't seen a sign of that material since
the new library opened. I suppose I should ask someone if they kept the
stuff.

> However, if you're looking to own the books or magazines, this doesn't
> help. But if you're just looking for info or wanting to get some kicks
> by reading old stuff, your local public or university library is a great
> place to start.

I find that most of the computer-related books in this library are too
theoretical. There really isn't that much that is linked to one piece of
hardware.

I did find a few good books in a Salvation Army store on Thursday, though.
I was hoping for some hardware (they had NONE), but I'm quite pleased with
some of the books I found. Nothing involving the PET, though. :)


Doug Spence
ds_spenc_at_alcor.concordia.ca
Received on Mon Apr 28 1997 - 04:51:50 BST