The aim of this thesis is to examine a sample of gifted and dedicated books in the book collection once belonging to S.A. Hedlund, a central figure in late 19th century Sweden. The thesis seeks in part to ascertain what patterns can be found as regards to aspects such as book gifts subject areas, dedication inscriptions and positions and relationships between the book donors and S.A. Hedlund. The thesis also aims to examine how books as gifts functioned in the relationsships between the donors and the recipient S.A. Hedlund. This will be done through critical case sampling and an analysis consisting of qualitative content analys along with object biography, gift theory, and an Habermasian understanding of the bourgeois society. In summary, the results suggest some common themes and patterns emerging from the material, such as the usage of titles for both the donor and the recipient, the play on mutual interests, and the demonstration of respect, reverence and affection. The results also suggest that books as gifts played a part in their position as objects, in order to maintain and strengthen the relationship between gifter and recipient as well as constituting a means for conversation on mutual interests.