Library of Practical Electricity Complete 8 Volume Set McGraw Hill 1915–1924 Electrical Engineering Books

This complete eight-volume Library of Practical Electricity is a substantial early twentieth-century technical reference set published by McGraw-Hill Book Company.

Covering practical mathematics, electrical theory, machinery, power distribution, wiring, and illumination, these books were written for students, electricians, engineers, and skilled tradesmen during the formative years of modern electrical engineering.

The set includes books published between approximately 1915 and 1924. It remains an impressive resource for collectors of engineering history, electricians, industrial design enthusiasts, or anyone interested in early electrical technology.

Details

• Title: Library of Practical Electricity (Complete 8-Volume Set)
• Publisher: McGraw-Hill Book Company
• Publication Dates: Various printings between approximately 1915 and 1924
• Format: Hardcover
• Measurements: Approximately 8 x 5 x 1 inches each

Volumes Included

• Volume 1 – Practical Mathematics for Home Study – Claude Irwin Palmer – 493 pages
• Volume 2 – Practical Electricity Part I – 336 pages
• Volume 3 – Practical Electricity Part II – 646 pages (includes a vintage Monsignor of Detroit newspaper clipping)
• Volume 4 – Electrical Machinery – 352 pages
• Volume 5 – Central Stations – 332 pages
• Volume 6 – Wiring, Light and Power – 551 pages
• Volume 7 – Wiring of Finished Buildings – 275 pages
• Volume 8 – Practical Electric Illumination – 225 pages

Condition Grade: Very Good Vintage

Positives

• Complete eight-volume matching set.
• Original maroon cloth bindings with bright gilt spine lettering.
• Bindings appear solid throughout.
• Pages are clean, crisp, and fully legible.
• Numerous diagrams, charts, technical illustrations, and engineering figures throughout.

Issues / Wear

• Light shelf wear and rubbing to cloth covers.
• Expected age toning to page edges.
• Minor corner and edge wear consistent with age.
• Volume 3 contains an old newspaper clipping tucked inside.
• No major structural issues observed from the photos.

Please review all photographs carefully, as they form part of the description.

Condition Guide

• Like New: Little to no visible wear.
• Very Good: Light vintage wear with solid bindings.
• Good: Moderate wear but complete and fully usable.
• Fair: Heavy wear while remaining serviceable.

Collector's Notes

Published during the rapid expansion of electrical infrastructure in the early twentieth century, the Library of Practical Electricity was designed to provide practical training for electricians, engineers, and industrial workers. Subjects range from foundational mathematics through power generation, electrical machinery, wiring practices, and illumination, making this a fascinating snapshot of engineering education from the era.

Complete matching sets are increasingly difficult to assemble and make an attractive display in an office, workshop, or industrial history collection.

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Disclaimer

All items are vintage and may show signs of age, wear, or use consistent with their history. Photos show the exact condition of each piece—please review them carefully, as they are part of the description. 

Care and Handling:
Handle with clean, dry hands. Store upright, out of direct sunlight, at about 68°F and 40–50% relative humidity. Avoid damp areas and extreme temperature swings.