Ink and bone / Caine, Rachel

In this alternate world, the all-powerful Library of Alexandria censors knowledge to the masses in every city with the use of alchemy--personal ownership of books is forbidden. Jess Brightwell dabbles in illegal books on the black market. When his friend inadvertently commits heresy by creating a device that could change the world, Jess learns that the Great Library values its knowledge more than human life.

"Ruthless and supremely powerful, the Great Library is now a presence in every major city, governing the flow of knowledge to the masses. Alchemy allows the Library to deliver the content of the greatest works of history instantly, but the personal ownership of books is expressly forbidden ... When his friend inadvertently commits heresy by creating a device that could change the world, Jess discovers that those who control the Great Library believe that knowledge is more valuable than any human life--and soon both heretics and books will burn"--Dust jacket flap.