The Bookwheel!

17th century device that allowed researchers to read up to 8 open books at a time.

 

Researching information in the 16th century could be a challenge.

Books at that time were typically large and heavy, so if you needed to review several volumes simultaneously, much lifting and desk space was required. Enter Agostino Ramelli, who in 1588 invented the Bookwheel. It allowed the placement of multiple books on a wheel that could be easily rotated in front of the reader. It worked vertically like a water wheel and took up no more space than a table.

This beautiful model pictured here is from the 17th century and can be found in the Biblioteca Palafoxiana. Puebla, Mexico (also the source of the image).