Where the books went
The collection contains about 4,000 books on magic, spiritualism and related subjects. The Library holds it in its Rare Book and Special Collections Division.[1]
An early book on card tricks
One volume is Tricks with Cards, which Houdini bought in 1893, according to the Library of Congress.[1]
A personal note, years later
Houdini’s personal note appears in the Library of Congress’s account, published on October 28, 2026, shortly before the centenary of his death.[1]
In a 1916 inscription, Houdini recalled visiting public libraries in those days and said the book had cost him a great deal. He described his early days as the happiest of his life.[1]
- 1893: Houdini bought Tricks with Cards.
- 1916: He wrote in the book about its cost and his early days.
- October 31, 1926: Houdini died.