"Ex Libris" is a Latin phrase meaning "from the books of." It is commonly used to indicate ownership of a book, often accompanied by a bookplate or stamp. This practice dates back to the Middle Ages when individuals would mark their books to prevent theft and to showcase their personal libraries. In addition to its use in book ownership, "Ex Libris" can refer to a genre of art that features bookplates. These artistic designs often include the owner's name and can be highly decorative, reflecting the owner's personality or interests. Collecting these bookplates has become a popular hobby among bibliophiles.