(fimmll ^nivmii^ Jitotg THE GIFT OF ^Qivv>>£m J>V \<^(yv>>?lr^jrv^ Ji,.lk^^.^^. i2.\i\.\ci.Dz^.. I Cornell University Library Z673 .W92 Papers preDared for the World's Library olln 3 1924 029 512 229 The datashows when this volume was taken^ All books not in use for instruction or re- search are limited to four weeks to all bor- rowers. Periodicals of a gen- eral character should be returned as soon as possible ; when needeS beyond two tveeks a Special request should be made. AWjtudeni borrot*- ers are limited to tw£> weeks,, with renewal privileges, when the book is not needed by- others. Books not needed during recess periods should be returned to the library, or arrange- ments made for their return during borrow- er's absence, if wanted. Books needed by more than one person belong on the resetve list. JnterWiraiy Loatt Cornell University Library The original of this book is in the Cornell University Library. There are no known copyright restrictions in the United States on the use of the text. http://www.archive.org/cletails/cu31924029512229 't-ue. CHAPTER IX. PAPEES PREPARED FOR THE WORLD'S LIBRARY COK"- GRESS. Library Economy. The president of the American Library Association, Mr. Melvil Dewey, in the year of the Columbian Exposition conceived the happy idea of preparing a Volume on library economy, assigning the several portions of the work to sj^«cial experts with the purpose of having the papers thus prepared read at the International Library Congress to be held in Chicago during the summer of 1893. The following letter from Mr. Dewey explains the plan, purpose, and execution of the following papers on library economy, which together constitute a unique and valuable treatise on the general subject of the management of libraries: While secretary of the American Library Association during its first fifteen years, the need of a manual of library economy was constantly felt, and much of my time was given to correspondence and to preparation and publication of matter destined after revision to form chapters of such a manual. When elected again to the presi- dency for the World's Fair meeting, I undertook with the approval of the executive board to utilize the unusual opportunity for making such a volume by cooperation. Tho following brief extracts fi'om some of the many official circulars sent out ■will make clear the plan: "The proceedings of tho American Library Association Columbian meeting will form a library handbook to take the place of the Centennial library volume pub- lished by tho Bureau of Education, which has long been out of print. That did much good, but was written just before modern library activity began. Obviously a much better book can now be written by well organized cooperation among lead- ing members of the association. The historical and statistical parts will be made by the Bureau of Education, which has by far the best facilities for this work, but it is our province to contribute the library economy. "I hope tho experiment of this systematic programme for the World's Fair meeting will be so successful that we may another year take tho historical side and make a historical handbook, and a third year take the bibliographic side, putting all our strength on that. This will give the profession three splendid volumes. Bearing this in mind, the writers for this year should avoid going into historical details and make their papers not ordinary essays but a compact and useful judicial summing np of the principles of library economy." The offleial programme of the ten days' meeting at Chicago made the'following statement : ''plan of progkajime. " The programme is so planned as to make the printed proceedings a handbook of library economy setting forth the points of general agreenieut attained in tlie seven- teen years since organization at the Centennial, and also the points on which our best thinkers still differ. 691 692 " Each author will revise his paper, utilizing the diacuasions, so that as finally printed in the proceedings it will represent the poaltion of the subject at the close instead of at the beginning of the 1893 meeting. "The aim is, therefore, to present a jndicial digest of previous articles, papers, discussions, and specially of experience, rather than to contribute new material. The substance of perhaps 100 or more contributions scattered through library serials and proceedings, general periodical literature, reports, bulletins, etc., are put in a single short paper, in two parts; the first stating what is generally accepted by well informed librarians, not necessarily what the author thinks ; the second giving the points on that subject which are still under discussion and to the solution of which 1 he Columbian meeting ought materially to contribute. " While the papers will thus be very condensed they arc not to be read at the meet- ings, but will be furnished in advance to members ; and the time at the meeting will be devoted to discussing unsettled points which will be presented by the author in a five minutes summary. It is thus expected to get from a single daily session as much practical good as is usually obtained from the three, and in the time thus gained to more than double the great practical value of our annual meeting by thorough study of the library exhibit." After the meeting the following were among the instructions sent to each author concerning final revision of his chapter: "The abstract printed in advance in the Library Journal, the full paper as pre- pared before the meetings, the shorthand reports of discussions, with any informa- tion from other sources specially collected for the A. L. A. exhibit, shoula be used in revising or rewriting the chapter to make it as practically valuable as possible for reference. "As general editor of the volume, I shall state the plan and opportunities ibr dis- cussion and revision, but -shall not claim approval of the A. L. A. for the published result, as the new constitution forbids promulgating any recommendations in library economy by the A. L. A. without previous approval by the council. Each author is therefore alone responsible for his chapter. You are not restricted to what was sub- mitted at the meeting, but are free to write now what you see fit, provided the rule laid down from the first is followed: that you state not your individual preferences, but the points of agreement and difference among competent librarians with the best statement you can make of different claims. A point of agreement does not mean that a bare majority of those consulted hold this opinion. In all cases where data has been collected the number of votes ought to be noted, at least in brackets or footnotes. On many points our discussions showed us to be practically unanimous, but wherever a respectable minority held different views they are entitled to fair mention in these chapters. We must all guard against assuming the position of an advocate of methods we personally prefer, rather than that of u, judge of all those found to have substantial merits. Each author might be described as a World's Fair judge to report on the subject, as other judges report on exhibits. We must not be misled by mere numbers using certain methods, for fifty librarians may be using one form and three another form unknown to the others, but which the entire fifty- three would prefer. "After a statement of what is being done and approved by competent judges we shall be glad to have each author add his personal views resulting from his study, provided Jie puts them clearly as such." Tliis is the plan on which these articles have been prepared. As editor I have had extended correspondence with some of the authors; with others hardly a single note has been exchanged. In some cases footnotes have been added to supply omis- sions, but the edilbr has not undertaken to supplement or modify the papers as revised. In preparing these chapters and in collecting the international library exhibit made by tlio American Library Association under the auspices of the United States Bureau of Education, many thousand circulars were sent out. The returns, contain- THE world's library CONGRESS. 693 ng an amount of valuable tecbuioal information never before so fully or carefully !olleoted, have all been preserved, classified, bound, and indexed,, and, with the ibrary exhibit itself, are fully available to all interested in the library museum of ;he New York State library school at Albany. In behalf of library interests the world over, the editor wishes to thank the luthors of these articles for the important service they have rendered to librarian- ihip. From his entrance on his official duties the present Commissioner of'Education has !hown an interest in and knowledge of modern library aims and methods which has !ommanded the admiration and cooperation of all interested in developing to its full possibility the great educational agency known as the public library system. The publication of these chapters where they may reach the largest number and do the most good simply adds one more to the long list of official acts which have made dis administration marked at home and abroad, wherever educationists keep informed is to the work of government departments. Melvil Dewey. State Library, Albany, N. F., June IS, 1895. LiBRAKiES IN Relation to Schools. Hannah P. James, Librarian in Osterhout Free Library, Wilkesbarre, Pa. Object to be attained. — Dr. W. T. Harris in Ms address at the Fa- byan house conference in 1890, on "The function of the library and the school in education," said: "The school gives the preliminary prepara- tion for education, and the library gives the means by which the indi- vidual completes and accomplishes his education." These few words embody the sentiments of the typical modern librarian, and his chief aim is so to impress them on the instructors of youth that the schools and the libraries shall work together for one and the same purpose — the true education of man from his earliest years to the close of his earthly career. Ho^v to begin. — First, enlist the interest of the superintendent of schools or members of the school board in a close connection between the schools and the library. In New Jersey all libraries organized under the law of 1884 have the superintendent as an ex-oflacio member of the library board. In other places the superintendent or some of the principals are elected as members. Minneapolis has both the super- intendent of schools and the president of the university, and gains greatly thereby in a wise and intelligent administration. Without these exceptional advantages, however, much depends on enlisting the hearty cooperation of the school board; for while the most intelUgent teachers rarely need more than the opportunity to enter into the work, others have to be won over and encouraged by the impelling influence of authority. Their aid, too, is often needed in arranging the details of the work, both in school and out. To interest teachers.— Seek personal intercourse with the.teachers and explain to them the value and aim of the work proposed. Visit the schools if possible and make yourself familiar with their work. Invite 694 the teachers by grades to the library to examine books adapted to their classes. Ask for suggestions of books to buy. Feel a real interest in the teachers and their work, and never be too busy to pass a friendly word with them. One librarian lends pictures mounted on cardboard to teachers who do not at first care for books, and so wins them. Speak at teachers' institutes of your aims, and the great work that can be accomplished by cooperation. Do not rest till every teacher uses the library. The books are quite often of as much value to the teacher as to the pupil. Los Angeles invites teachers to join the library club and finds it most helpful. How to aid teachers. — If possible, have some one specially fitted by training and disposition to take charge of the school work which must fall on the librarian or one of his assistants. If the latter is chosen with special reference to her fitness for aiding and inspiring the teach- ers, just so much more good will be accomplished. Several libraries have made such appointments, and devote Saturday mornings during term time and two hours every day after school to assisting both teach- ers and pupils. Lists of books for school use are prepared, sometimes classified, and with notes; written lists of new books received are made, the books themselves being shown. Call numbers are entered in Sargent's, Caller's, Hardy's, Hewins's, and other lists, and lent to the teacherSr Grades allo'wed use pf books. — From some libraries only the high school is allowed to draw books for school use. More allow high and grammar schools, leaving out the primary school. If our aim is to ed^ate and direct the tastes and habits of thought of the peoiDle, the workean not begin too early. Train the twig into a straight and healthy growth, if you wish ^ straight and healthy tree. As it is estimated that nearly half the pupils leave school at or before reaching the grammar grade, it is necessary to interest them in good books before that time, making them feel that the library has something of value to them, and is as much for them, if they will but use it, as for others. Better results will be obtained in the higher grades by pupils trained in the use of books from the beginning. Number of volumes lent. — From 2 to 40. volumes each are allowed at one time by different libraries, the average number lent by 50 libraries being 7. The number varies somewhat, but not always according to the size of the library. 'A moderate limit may with advantage be estab- lished in the beginning; but later, if an earnest teacher wants and can use a large number to advantage, without detriment to the needs of other teachers, he should have them. Thirty- three libraries report no limit, leaving it to the judgment of the librarian. Milwaukee allows one volume to each pupil. Special libraries.— What are called " special libraries" of 50 volumes each, are in some cities sent to the schools instead of, or in addi- tion to, those lent on school cards. These are retained a specified THE world's library CONGRESS. ' 695 time— from four to eight Aveeks— and exchanged bodily at the expira- tion of that time with other schools. These "special libraries" often contain duplicates for simultaneous reading, the pupils being required to discuss the books and prepare papers on -them. Detroit, Worcester, \ Milwaukee, Cleveland, Columbus, and other libraries use this method ' to great advantage. Detroit has 4,000 volumes circulating in this way, 2,000 of them in the high school. New York State appropriates $25)000 a year for its public library division of the educational exten- sion department,! and ''traveling libraries" are a central feature in its most efficient practical work. In outlying districts at a distance from the main library teachers not infrequently act as agents in receiving and delivering the library books to the people of the neighborhood. While this distribution does not come under the head of " school work," the teacher can, if he will, exert a wise and helpful influence by aiding in the selection of the best books of all classes. Duplicates. — Duplicates ranging in number from 2 to 100 copies are purchased by different libraries. Where all members of a class are required to read the same book for seminars or essays, largo dupli- cation is necessary. Such duplication, however, would seem to be more appropriately provided by the school boards, unless school funds are given the library directly for that purpose, as at Los Angeles, where $5,500 a year are applied to the purchase of schoolbooks. Where a limited number of books is lent, fewer duplicates and greater variety, unless in special cases, will be found advisable. All classes of the same grade do not use the same books at the same time. For 10 grammar schools 6 copies of any one book are usually enough. Excep- tionally valuable books may require more duplicating. Variety excites interest in research and comijarison. Buy carefully up to demand, rather than beyond it. Where a limited ^reasury will not admit of any duplication, judicious buying, with due regard to school work, and as liberal a use of books on hand as the library can afford, will be of incalculable benefit. The main point is to teach the children to use the library to the best advantage, to cultivate a real love of books and a thirst for knowledge. Fiction. — Fiction, without decidedly moral or educational tenden- cies, is seldom allowed. While judicious teachers might often use fiction to good advantage, were it allowed to be freely drawn on school cards, there would be danger of an excessive use of it by others not so judicious. One library reports such use, and the consequent with- drawal of all library privileges. Some use historical fiction freely in connection with historical studies; some, 1 volume of fiction to 8 or 10 others; and many none at all, excepting to lowest primary grades, to incite a desire to use the books and to learn to read. In the latter iBy the new law of 1892 it also grants $55,000 a year for school libraries, to he kept in the building as a part of the school apparatus. 696 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. grades the old classic fairy tales are useful in awakening tlie interest and imagination of those coming from ignorant and degraded homes. Following these, Andrews's Seven Little Sisters, Kirby's Aunt Martha's Corner Cupboard, with other similar books, will easily lead up to more serious reading. As a rule, children do not need to be taught to read fiction, but by cultivating in them a taste for history, literature, natural science, etc., we may be reasonably sure that they will choose only the better class of fiction when left to themselves. And as the schools exist at great cost to the public, purely for the education of the young, it would seem to be the obvious duty of the library in its connection with the schools to furnish them only with books of a decidedly educational nature. In the high school grades standard fiction is used with advantage in the study of literature. Limit of time allowed and care of books. — Books are usually lent for a limited period, with privilege of an indefinite number of renewals. Some issue for an unlimited period. By allowing one renewal only fewer duplicates are needed, but in consequence the children can not familiarize themselves so fully with the books. Fewer books thoroughly read are often better for the children than a greater variety with insuffi- cient time for careful perusal. Accounting for books every two or four weeks by the teacher encourages greater care on his part. The work can be delegated to one of the pupils, under the teacher's supervision, or, as in some libraries, the assistant in charge of school work can visit the schools and renew the books, examining their condition at the same time. Torn books should be returned to the library immediately, and lost books reported and paid for by the loser, or by the whole school if the loser is unknown or unable. Responsibility for the careful use of public property is a lesson which can not be learned too early, and children will value books more highly if, in case of loss or damage, they are required to contribute a few pennies apiece to make the loss good. Give them all possible privileges, but teach them to feel a sense of responsibility for those privileges. Record of school circulation. — About half the libraries heard from report no record kept of school circulation, because no special system is used. A ledger account with each teacher is valuable as showing titles of books drawn. Kept in small pass books, and alphabeted by teachers' names, this method is convenient and helpful. Where a charging-slip system is used, colored slips for schoolbooks show at a glance the character, date, and amount of school circulation. By this method warning can be sent teachers, if necessary, in season to pre- vent fines, but if fines accrue they should be paid. While the total amount of circulation can not show the full value of the work done it serves as an indication, and on both librarian and teachers it acts as an inspiration and incentive. Special school cards are often used, either placed in book pockets or retained at the library. In the latter THE world's LIBKAEY CONGRESS. 697 case, teacher's name and date of return are written on the book cover. Teachers are advised to write date of return or renewal on the black- board. Influence of library on pupils.— Some librarians ask for lists of books read by each pupil, with comments on favorites. These lists are returned to the pupils with words of encouragement and advice from the librarian. Some invite children to write notes to them expressing their appreciation and wants. A letter from the librarian commending care and good use of books is greatly valued, and creates a personal feeling of friendship for the library. Better still is the custom of some to visit the schools once a year and talk with the pupils. Classes are invited to visit the library at stated times and are shown objects of natural history or science, if such form a part of it. These methods, or any others used with a sincere desire to win the children to a love of the library, will have their reward in a great increase of interest among the young. Kindly personal influence is one of the greatest factors of success in this work. Reference use by pupils. — Extensive use for reference is reported by nearly all libraries, some situated near the schools having daily visits from whole classes. Others, according to their ability, afford every possible aid, considering it their most valuable work. As mentioned above, Saturday forenoons and two hours after school daily are in some places devoted to the special assistance of teachers and pupils. Class rooms. — Few libraries have class rooms designed specially for thajt use, but several report them as future possibilities when new buildings or additions are completed. For class work they are invalu- able, as large collections of books can be examined and discussed, a love of research instilled, and a familiarity cultivated that will often lead pupils to prosecute their studies after their school life ends. Worcester has a class room for every subject — history, fine arts, . natural science, etc. Teachers' cards. — Teachers are usually allowed to draw extra books for purposes of study, the number varying from two to any number desired, but generally for a limited time. Teachers' cards are issued to all teachers whether residents or not. Books on pedagogy and kindred subjects should be provided and the teachers asked to suggest titles for their own use. Teachers' influence on home circulation. — Some libraries report a decided influence on home circulation from school work, apart from the books lent to pupils from the school. Librarians find teachers the most eflicient helpers possible in securing the entrance of good books into families which can in no other way be reached. They are the only ones who can do that work, and they should be encouraged to distribute registration blanks, and help in the selection of books for home read- ing by short lists or catalogs furnished them for the purpose. They should be impressed with the greatness of their opportunities for good. 698 education report, 1892-93. Adaptation op Libraries to Constituencies.' By Samuel Swett Green, Public librariau, Worcester, Mass. A resident of a Massachusetts town to which the Commonwealth was about to give $100 worth of books came to secure my influence as a member of the State free public library commission to have a large part of the $100 spent for rare and expensive books on Massachusetts his- tory, Asa large and valuable library made up principally of books of that class was soon to be given to another small town in the same cpurity, it would have been manifestly unwise to grant this request. It seems unwise also to place a students' library in a small town where there are few who will use it. It would be better to give the library to a flour- ishing institution at a county seat, on condition that it shall be open for free consultation by all residents of the county, and that, under proper rules, books may be lent from it to inhabitants of smaller towns for use at home. lu this way the library would be so placed that most persons wishing to make investigations would h&ve the books near home, and the com- paratively few investigators in the smaller towns, such as the man in the town first-mentioned, would also have their interests provided for. The trustees of the Thomas Crane Public Library at Quincy, Mass., have concluded, utilizing the experience of many years, that a working library of 15,000 volumes is sufficient to supply the general wants of the 20,000 residents of the city. It is proposed not to let the library grow beyond 20,000 volumes while the wants of the city remain what they are,, and when it exceeds that number of volumes to cut it down by taking out boobs that never have been needed in a popular library like that in Quincy or that have become useless. It having become evident that an addition would presently have to be made to the build- ing if the recent rate of increase should continue, it seemed best to the trustees to begin at once to reduce the size of the library. They pro- ceeded, under the able leadership of Mr. Charles Francis Adams, to remove from the library large numbers of Government documents, 'With tbis pai)er should be read those pages of the Chicago discussions in which it was pointed out by leading librarians that to weed out safely would require much costly expert service; that the most hurtful criticism would bo arttacks after inevita- ble cases where some one would greatly wish a book that had been withdrawn as useless ; that the printed catalogs already circulated would be made untrustworthy by parting with any volume included ; tliat what one wise and learned man would throw out as trash, another equally wise and learned would consider specially val- uable because of differing personal equations. In short, that however excellent in theory, it was perhaps the most difttcult thing in librariauship to put successfully in practice. While few favored "weeding out" simply to gain room by getting rid of books little wanted, many believe in transferring to other libraries which ha^e a distinctly greater need of them. — M. J). THE world's library CONGRESS. 699 unnecessary duplicates, books of an outgrown cpliemeral interest, and those unsuited to the locality. Twenty-one hundred and forty-five volumes were removed immediately. The Quincy library, by adopting- this course, relieves itself from very considerable prospective expenses and secures money to use in increasing its usefulness. Part of the plan is to keep the printed catalogs of the small library up to date and to scatter copies of them widely throughout the city by selling them at a nominal price. It is always expensive to prepare and print a good catalog; it is very expensive to issue new editions fre- quently. Still, if a popular library is to do its work well it must intro- duce its constituents to its books by means of frequent revised editions of a good, printed catalog. The Thomas Crane Library has To-een famous for the excellence of its annotated catalog and for lists of books on special subjects for the use of school children. It proposes in future to use more money than in the past in making, i^rinting, and keeping tip to date good cata- logs, and, in order to make it practicable to do so, to keep down the number of volumes in th« library, thus reducing the expenses of cata- loging, and also to save money in housing its books. That is to say, it is acting on the well-established principle that a small library well cataloged, if at all adapted in the number of its volumes to the size of a town, is of incalculably greater advantage to its constituency than one many times larger but poorly equipped with catalogs. It is a distinctive feature of the Quincy plan not to make the library a special reference library. That city is very near Boston and Cam- bridge, which it is well known are richly supplied with large general and numerous special libraries. When a man appears in Quincy who wishes to make a minute inquiry on some special subject, it is proposed to refer him to the great libraries in the neighboring cities, and to confine the efforts of the trustees of the Quincy library to supplying the general wants of its constituency. Here, then, is a bold attempt at adapting a library to its constituency. Shall it be seconded? Many will hold it unwise to discuss such, a subject publicly. Eemem- bering many ill-judged efforts at economy by ignorant, uneducated, or parsimonious men in town meetings and on library boards, they will pronounce it hurtful to libraries to point out to such men that some library experts consider it well to keep down expenses for cataloging and housing books by weeding out libraries. Perhaps they are right. Whether they arc so or not, however, their objection is too late. The matter now under consideration is undergoing public discussion, and it is important that men having special knowledge of library matters should contribute now the results of their experience. Unreasonabk men in town meetings and in boards of trustees must be answered, and reasonable men and women need to understand thoroughly the subject in order that their answers may be discriminating and wise. 700 Once, when the Librarian of Congress asked that an addition be n ade to the library rooms, a member is said to have urged that instead of enlarging the Capitol, the library should be weeded out. Such a plan would be regarded generally as exceedingly foolish. There must be in many parts of this broad land large and growing libraries which will aim to gather very large general and special collec- tions not limited to books of intrinsic merit. Such libraries will have to get many books of little value in themselves to enable students to study subjects historically. It would indeed be very silly to weed out the Congressional Library. Somewhere there should be accessible (and where better than in that library!) every book, pamphlet, and map published in the United States. The Congressional Library should be a great national library like the Biblioth^que ISTationale and the British Museum. The Quincy plan would not work well even in a place the size of Worcester, Mass., with a population of only 90,000 or 95,000, and but 44 miles from Boston, for it is a center of important educational insti- tutions and of inquirers, and therefore needs large reference libraries. Cambridge, though very much nearer Boston than Quincy, becomes, because of Harvard University, a center where there must be a large library. It is too great an inconvenience for Harvard professors- and students to rely, except for book rarities, on libraries even so near as those in Boston. ^ On the other hand, consider the John Adams Library at Quincy. It was collected by President John Adams in Europe and America, and undoubtedly contains many valuable books. But is it in place in Quincy? It was formerly kept in the Adams Academy, but not jirov- ing useful there, it was transferred to the Thomas Crane Public Library, where it now is. Mr. Charles Francis Adams recently said that he only knew of this John Adams Library having been consulted once in forty years, and that then he was himself the consulter. It is more convenient for Mr. Adams to make his many researches in the great libraries in Boston and Cambridge than in Quincy, and his opinion is that this library should be given to the Boston Public Library, where it would be of great value in supplementing the collections, and would be readily accessible to the class of students who would use it. Per- haps, however, Quincy would be unwilling to give up this library, which marks its connection with a very distinguished man. While it is a distinctive feature of the Quincy plan not to make the public library a special reference library, its success depends on having large reference libraries near at hand. In one respect it encourages making the library a special library, namely, on local interests and history. As to the saving in expense possible under the Quincy plan^ while money is saved which would ordinarily be used in housing books and in other ways, increased expenditure, it should be remembered, is con- templated in frequent issues of improved catalogs. As I shall soon show, the plan, if well carried out, requires other expenditures. THE world's library CONGRESS. 701 There are many small libraries which do not need weeding. If a library needs' weeding, as many undoubtedly do, will it be weeded out wisely? Broad-minded intelligence is needful for this kind of work, as well as education and experience in library work. An expert is as much needed in this work of weeding out as in selecting books for a library at its start. Great harm might result from injudicious discarding. Another objection likely to be made to the Quincy plan is that it would often be difficult to decide how large a library is needed in a town or city, and that this dilficulty would be magnified in a growing town. Still, if a thing is desirable it should be done in spite of diffi- culties. Foresight must be exercised and generous provision made for the probable growth of towns, and the number of volumes changed as changes in the size of population or other considerations demand. Supposing a mistake has been made, the weeding has been made with the accessibihty in view of large and special libraries in towns and cities near by. Those towns and cities will still remain near to the town which has grown unexpectedly large j their libraries will still be accessible for reference. The difference between the old state of things and the new is likely to be that the books will be used more under changed circumstances than formerly. But how provide under the Quincy plan for students who can not afford time and money to frequent the large libraries even in towns or cities near by ; and supposing this number of special inquirers becomes considerable, can you hope that they will receive a cordial welcome and sympathetic assistance in large neighboring libraries? Dangers here hinted at must be guarded against. Librarians and trustees should be on the lookout for inquirers and help them to get at the books needed. It is proposed to help them by preparing and issuing often impi oved printed catalogs. Personal assistance would also evidently be needed under the liew plaij. In some cases it would be-necessary to buy books. In others the investigator might be introduced to the officers of the library, or by some influential person to the officers of a large neighbor.- ing library with reference to his being allowed to borrow if he could not use books on the premises. The same thing might perhaps be better accomplished by a loan from the large to the small library. The small library might have to pay for this privilege. It might be desirable, if an investigator had leisure but not money, for the small library to pay his car fare to the town where the library to be consulted is situated. Large libraries as now constituted are very obliging, aud continually extend courtesies to smaller institutions. The people of Worcester, for 'example, every week, and sometimes oftener, have books borrowed for their use from the Surgeon-General's library, Washington, from Harvard, the Boston Athenieum, Columbia, Yale, and other libraries. Many insti- tutions are already extending gratuitously such privileges. Supposing it were to become the custom of small libraries to send books and pamphlets which they can get, but do not need, to large 702 EDUCATION KEPOET, 1892-93. neighboring libraries where they would be useful. Such action would lead to an exchange of various civilities. Then, too, as the desirability of having large libraries help smaller ones by loans of books becomes more and more obvious, will not persons of means give money to the former to enable them to do this kind of work for small towns generally or for particular towns in which they may be specially interested? Mr. Adams's advice to libraries is, not to accumulate books pro- miscuously, but to practice a systematic differentiation in collecting. Books which cumber the shelves of one library may be of the greatest value in another. The public documents only of its own town and State, and a few of the national documents relating to matters of gen- eral interest, are in place in the library of a small town. But all public documents have come to be of the greatest service in large libraries and in libraries connected with important educational institutions. Even those which seem driest, because exclusively of statistics, are much in demand in colleges where students of history and political economy are required to examine original sources. Mr. Charles A. Cutter said several years ago, regarding the proper disposition of pamphlets, that local pamphlets should be given to local libraries, professional or scientific pamphlets to special libraries, mis- cellaneous and all sorts of pamphlets to larger general libraries. This is excellent advice. Even large general libraries practice differentiation, many of them excluding professional books and leaving special libraries in their neighborhood to accumulate them. A State library may properly make a specialty of public documents, and perhaps law books, and pay little attention to accumulating other books. A general subscription library with a constituency mainly of people of leisure may find it more useful to collect books in belles-lettres, biography, history, travel, etc., than to buy many dealing with industrial subjects. But a public library in a great manufacturing town, or a special library for architects and engineers, must specialize on technical books. It is not proposed to destroy books taken out of libraries where they are not needed, but to place them within reach of those most needing them, either through other libraries or auction rooms or secondhand bookstores. No countenance would be gi^'en to siich a proceeding as that of the administrators of the estate of the well-known collector of old books, Mr. T. O. P. H. Burnham, who are said to have sent a ton or more of material from his stock to the jiaper mill.' The people of Worcester act more wisely. They empty their attics into the rooms of the American Antiquarian Society or those of tbc^ 'It is conceivable that after a lifetime of buying -whole attics of rejected books and preserving those which no one ivould buy at any price, out of an immense stock there might be a ton of duplicate schoolbooks, incomplete volumes, and other books and pamphlets which could not oveu be given away to any library ; since the large libraries would have copies and the smaller ones would not esteem them worth shelf room.^M. D. THE world's library CONGRESS. 703 local Society of Antiquity. Housekeepers there, too, dispose similarly of such books as turn up iu spring cleaning and are found to be in the way. An, extensive system of exchange is in operation under the auspices of the former society, and books and pamphlets sent to the rooms of either society, find their way to persons and libraries where they are needed, and the two antiquarian societies enrich their collec- tions by the exchanges made. Col. Thomas Wentworth Higginson recently stated that a trustee of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, told him that he spent a considerable part of his time in refusing gifts offered to the museum. This trustee is probably wise in declining gifts. There are many books and pam- phlets offered to libraries which they would not find useful. These should be accepted only on condition that tliey may be placed wherever they will be most valuable. Differentiation is specially desirable in the smallest libraries. When but little money is available for buying books the small amount should be spent with closest regard to actual needs of the constituency. Not infrequently intelligent entertainment and elementary instruction will be the principles that should guide in selecting books for small libraries. With intelligent cooperation several small neighboring towns might adopt to advantage the suggestion that each of them spend a few dollars a year on a specialty, such as botany, geology, zoology ; every town taking a different sjjecialty and all lending to one another. This paper favors in the main the selection of books with special ref- erence to the actual existing needs of the users of the library. Such an institution as the flourishing public library of Providence, E. I., might properly, if allowable for any library in cities of moderate size, add to its general work some specialty of limited interest. Mr. Foster, its librarian, has recently stated, however, that he thinks that notwith- standing the reputation which the famous Harris collection of poetry gives to the library throughout the country, it is the best for that library to, devote itself almost exclusively to supplying the general needs of Providence. In conclusion, it may be stated that Mr. Adams does not claim that the plan of weeding out libraries adopted at Quincy has never been thought of before. He was not indebted to any book for the idea, but it had occurred to other persons before. Action iipon it had always been recommended. Mr. Adams has taken the bull by the horns. He has put the plan in execution and to a considerable extent has sys- tematized it. He has also called attention to it and made it a living subject for discussion. 704 EDUCATION REPOKT, 1892-93. Aids to Libraky Progress by the Government of the United States. By A. E. Si'OFFOUD, LL. D., Librarian of Congress. Whatever may be the opinion of librarians or of the public as to the adequacy of the service rendered to libraries by our Government, it is at least certain that it has been enough to call for worthy recognition at our hands. While it can by no means be affirmed that the Government has been consistently liberal, it would be equally untrue to assert that it has been consistently niggardly. The Congress of Senators and Eep- resentatives, which is alone responsible for the opening and shutting of the national purse strings, is a continually changing body, of brief o&- cial tenure. It results that a certain caprice or uncertainty attends the making of appropriations for scientific, educational, and specially for literary objects. The enlightened and large-minded men whose zeal for the widest dif- fusion of knowledge through libraries may lead to generous legislation in one Congress may not be reelected to the next. I will venture to lay it down as a postulate that this Government of the people owes to the libraries of the country all the aids which a due regard for constitutional limitation will allow. Such aids should by no means be confined to libraries at the seat of Government, which may seem to be more peculiarly within its cares. The most obvious and practically useful means of extending such aids is a wider and more complete distribution of all books printed at the expense of the Gov- ernment. This method, being but a simple extension in the interest of public intelligence of legislation for more than half a century on the statute books, ought also to be more free from cavil and objection than any other. A thoroughly digested system of such enlarged distribution has been often put before the committees of Congress through the aid of this association, and just as often has been rejected, or has failed of passage in one or the other House of Congress. The reasons of these repeated failures, complex as they are, have been fully treated by the members of successive committees of our members in charge of this subject. In this summary of what has hitherto been done in aid of libraries, complete details can not be given. But I may proi)erly mention some of the more remarkable contributions which have been made to public libraries through the agency of Congress, in the form of publications not emanating from any Department or Bureau of the Government, and hence not constituting documents entering into the ordinary channels of distribution. By far the most costly and extensive publication ever undertaken by the Government was the narrative and the scientific results of the United States Exploring Expedition round the world, in 1838-1842, under ,the command of Capt. Charles Wilkes. This vast undertaking, though strictly limited to an edition of 100 copies, and THE world's library CONGRESS. 705 never completed, cost this Government from first to last $242,460.55. This enormous sum was of course exclusive of any expenses of the expedition itself, and covered — (1) The labor of many scientific experts in various fields; (2) The finest engravings which the art of that day could supply; (3) The choicest paper, of heavy satin finish; (4) The 'hand press work of the best printers, and (5) Binding in the heaviest and most durable of Turkey morocco, full gilt. Eighteen volumes of text in quarto, and 11 folio atlases of maps and plates were finished up to 1861, when Congress' already more than impatient at the renewed and heavy demands for money to carry on a work of which none could predict the ultimate cost, brought it to a close by refusing further appropriation. The 100 sets printed were by law distributed thus: 34 copies to for- eign Governments; 1 copy to each State in the Union; 6 copies to specially designated institutions or individuals; the remainder to be reserved for future States when admitted to the Union. Eepeated fires in printing offices consumed 30 copies of certain volumes before distri- bution could be made, so that even the meager diffusion of the work to libraries was never fully carried out. Still, it is to the credit of the liberality of Congress to have engaged, in those days of small things and of strict construction, in putting iuto permanent literary form the scientific results of an exploration which had awakened world wide interest. The original sin of the undertaking lay in limitin g the edi tion to 100 copies, and sending all the American distribution to libraries at State capitals, and nowhere else. Thus, Albany has a set of this great . exploring expedition, while New York City has none. Columbus, Ohio, is endowed with the costly volumes, but Cincinnati scholars can not see them without traveling 100 miles. Jefferson City has a set, laid to sleep under dust year by year, while St. Louis has none. Springfield, 111., in its State library, has these rare and precious volumes, perliaps never consulted with serious purpose by one visitor in a year, while the great metropolis of studious research, Chicago, can not show a copy of one of the most notable of purely American books. This remark- able history of a Government's doing a very liberal thing iu a very nig- gardly way, adds point to the suggestioa that if only 100 more copies had been printed, their distribution would have supplied every library in the United States at that day having 5,000 volumes. This added number would have cost merely the price of paper and presswork — a mere trifle in comparison with the vast sum squandered in diffusing much less than half the benefit. Besides, the Government might have printed for a much wider dis- tribution the five- volume Narrative of the United States Exploring Expedition, a popular and interesting work, published only by private enterprise. In short, this mismanaged and truncated publication is to ED 93 45 706 EDUCATIOIir REPORT, 1892-93. be instanced as a model to be avoided iu future undertakings of a similar nature. Among otlier notable Government contributions of special value to libraries have been Force's American Archives ; or, Documentary His- tory of the American Eevolution, the publication of which extended to 9 volumes in folio (1837-1853) ; the American State Papers, 38 volumes folio (1832-1861) ; a republication of important Government and Con- gressional reports and documents, from 1789 to about 1837; Commodore Perry's Narrative of the United States Expedition to Japan, 3 volumes quarto (1856); the Writings of Thomas Jefferson, 9 volumes (1853), 300 sets of which wen£ to libraries and institutions of learning; the J\Iadi- son Papers, 3 volumes (1840), and his writings in 4 volumes (1865) ; the Charters and Constitutions of the United States, 2 volumes (1878); and the collection of French documents, entitled "Decouvertes et fitablisse- mens des Frangais dans I'Ouest et dans le Sud de I'Am^riquc Sejjten- trionale," 1684-1754, edited by P. Margry and i^rinted at Paris iu 6 volumes (1870-1886); and the Annals of Congress; or. Debates .and Proceedings of that Body from 1789 to 1824, 42 volumes, octavo, (1834r- 1836), of which 300 sets were distributed to libraries and other public institutions. ^'' "Worthy of our highest recognition is the circulation at Government expense of the extensive work on the Public Libraries of the United States; their History, Condition, and Management, published by the Bureau of Education in 1876. This was followed by a distribution of the second part of the work, Eules for a Dictionary Catalogue, by C. A. Cutter. The Statistics of Public Libraries in the United States, printed by the Bureau of Education in 1886," and about being issued in a new edition to 1893, adds another signally useful publication, widely . given to libraries all over the world. The action of Congress in making books imported for libraries free of duty is another service, which, though long delayed, merits our hearty commendation. There should be added to this regulation something which our asso- ciation has long sought but has not seen realized — a greatly reduced rate of postage on library books sent through the mails. Another service to libraries, both at home and abroad, rendered by our Government, and not so widely known as it should be, is the annual defraying of the cost of foreign exchanges through the Smithsonian Institution. Though the principal credit for this widely useful system by which American libraries may send abroad, and foreign libraries to the United States, books to institutions of learning, is of course due to the Smithsonian Institution and the admirable system established by it, yet Congress has latterly devoted thousands of dollars toward the expenses of the exchange, where before it devoted hundreds. It is to be added that the library of the Government receives the custody and use of the publications annually received as the fruit of exchanges by the Institution of its own publications. THE WORLD'S LIBEART CONGRESS. •707 The Government has further benefited the libraries of the country by printing, at its own expense, for years past — (1) The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, founded in 1863; (2) Annual Eeports of the American Historical Association (since 1889); and (3) Annual Reports of the Smithsonian Institution, full of valuable scientific papers. All these enjoy such distribution to public libraries as is provided for regular Congressional documents under existing laws. Another and more direct aid to libraries by Congress is to be found in the foundation and increase of the various Department and Bureau libraries at the seat of 'government. The most extensive of these special collections is the library of the Surgeon-General's Bureau at the Army Medical Museum, numbering 104,300 volumes. The elaborate catalog of this collection, the largest assemblage of •publications on medicine, surgery, and hygiene in the world, has been printed wholly at Government expense, costing, up to date, for printing and bindi&g about $174,000, aside from the cost of its preparation. ■ Beside the national collection in the Library of Congress, the Gov- ernjnent has also founded and extended the following Department libraries : Library of— Number of volumea. Library of^ Number of volumea. 50, 000 50, 000 30, 000 24, 51« 21, 000 21,500 20, 000 , 11, 500 10. 000 30, 414 12, 000 45, 000 4,200 TJDited States Naval Observatory 13,000 3,600 Signal Office United States Array .-. Museum of Hygiene, Navy Depart- ment r — 10. 540 9,938 7,000 1 ()P0 TJuited States Hydroffraphic Office.. . United States Fisb. Commission Marine Hospital Bureau 3,160 2 055 1,800 2,000 Bureau of Stalristiea - 385, 431 There are also many minor collections of books in vb.rious bureaus. All of these have been built up by Congressional appropriations. But the most extensive outlay for library purposes by our ISTational Government has been the establishment and constant increase of the Library of Congress, more appropriately designated by Jefferson "the Library of the United States." This name was bestowed on it in his catalog of 1815, when his library, bought by Congress, constituted th« entire collection. A more limited designation appears to have been preferred by Congress in that day of small things, before any idea of a national library had dawned on the legislative mind, and has natur- ally been perpetuated in the statutes. Beginning with the modest appropriation of $5,000 in 1800 "for the purchase of such books as may be necessary for the use of Congress at the city of Washington," etc., 708 EDUCATION EEPORT, 1892-93. the library grew very slowly for half a century, till, in 1851,. a fire in the Capitol cousuined all but 20,000 volumes of the collection. Congress, with praiseworthy liberality, at once appropriated $75,000 in one sum for buying books and $72,500 for rebuilding the interior in solid iron. Up to 1 893 the appropriations for books and periodicals have aggregated nearly $800,000, about $150,000 of which represents the replacement of books destroyed by two fixes. Another provision of law by which our national library is steadily enriched is the system of international exchanges. Fifty sets of all Congressional and exeoutive documents and other publications of the Government are annually set apart to be furnished to foreign govern- ments in Europe and America. The returns, though fragmentary and incomi)lete, have brought to the Library of Congress many thousand invaluable accessions, not only of parliamentary and legal publications, but of scientific and literary works. One principal source of the rapid growth of the library of the United States has been, and will continue to be, the copyright publications, which are deposited therein in pursuance of the law conferring exclusive rights of publication, coupled with therequiremeut of two copies of each work protected by copyright for permanent deposit at Washington. This law, though very imperfectly complied with prior to 1870 (when the business of keeping all copyright records was transferred to Wash- ington, and has since formed an integral and laborious part of the duties devolved upon the Librarian of Congress), since then has become a most important means of enriching the library. The wisdom of the legislation which established the system is amply attested by the valu- able accessions annually accruing; and in view of the fact that the great government libraries of Europe owe so large a proportion of their invaluable stores to the copyright privilege, it is manifest that the law of growth of our own national library is coextensive with the literary and scientific development of the country which it represents. The service rendered to the world of letters by the preservation in a fireproof repository at the seat of government of an approximately complete series of the nation's literature can be best appreciated by librarians, who know by experience how rapidly books tend to disap- pear from the market, till it is literally true that many works owe to public libraries their sole chance of preservation. The wise and liberal provision, alter years of delay, for a separate library building of the most ample dimensions, of absolutely fireproof materials, and on a plan combining utility and beauty in a high degree, is most creditable to the ultimate judgment and liberality of Congress. The extent of accommodation for books will be 4,500,0U0 volumes, and the limitation of cost $6,000,000, to which is to be added the sum paid for the site, $585,000. Three more years will witness the completion of a library edifice which, for capacity, for convenience, and for architec- tural beauty, promises to be worthy of the nation and of the age. THE world's library CONGRESS. 709 Branches and Deliveries. By GKORGI5 Watson Cole, Public librarian, Jersey City, N. J. The success of any library, be it reference or circulating, may be prop- erly measured by the extent of its use. Anything which will help to increase its use, therefore, must tend toward its success. Eeference libraries, no less than circulating, may do this by enlarging the num- ber of volumes and making them specially strong in certain lines, thus attracting to their use those interested in them; in other word's, by specializing in selection. As the success of a reference library depends on increasing its readers, this can only be brought about by extending as widely as possible information as to its resources. The public or circulating library must use all these means to secure readers, but is not restricted, as is the reference library, to drawing, readers within its portals. Experience has shown that many peoplp, who will not go far out of their way to secure books for home reading; will use a library if its books can be brought conveniently near to them. The read-er needs stimulating, and in order to reach him in towns covering large areas, or having distinct centers of population, several enterprising libraries have established branches or delivery stations, at points sufflciently accessible to overcome this natural inertia inherent in the general reader. As yet little attention has been paid to this phase of library manage- ment either by the American Library Association or in the Library Journal. It has therefore been necessary, in order to secure data for an intelligent treatment, to communicate directly with all such libraries as from their size, character, location, or surroundings were judged most likely to hav.e adopted either or both these means of increasing their usefulness. The list of libraries from which information was asked was carefully selected from the United States Bureau of Education's List of Libraries, 1886; the third report of the Free Public Library Commission of Mas- sachusetts, 1893, and Greenwood's Public Libraries (3d edition, 1890), which named a number of English libraries that had adopted branches. 710 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. Certain classes of libraries were omitted, for obvious reasons, such as college and State libraries, and such others as were known to be purely reference libraries. The following questions were sent: 1. Does your library make use of brandies? 2. How many ? 3. Number of assistants employed in the respective branches and cost of mainte- nance? 4. Location and distance of each from main library? 5. Number of volumes in each? 6. Number of volumes added annually to each, and their cost? 7. Are volumes in branches duplicates of those in the main library? 8. Are there reading rooms in the branches? 9. How extensively are they supplied with newspapers and periodicals? 10. What facilities are provided in the line of works of reference, cyclopediae, dio^ tionarios, atlases, etc.? 11. Can patrons of branches draw boots from the main library? 12. Is this done directly from the main library, or only through the branches? 13. If in the latteir way, how are books transported from main library to the branches? 14. Does your library make use of delivery stations? 15. If so, how many? 16. Location and distance of each from the main library? 17. In what manner and how often are collections and deliveries made? 18. What compensation is made for transportation? 19. What for services of station keepers? 20. Total circulation for the fiscal year ending 189 — ? 21. Average cost of circulating each volume? 22. What proportion of your entire circulation for home reading is made through the stations? 23. Are there reading rooms in connection with them? 24. If BO, expense of maintenance for services and supplies respectively ? 25. Do you make use of a combination of branch libraries and delivery statmnsi If so, please explain their working. 26. From your experience, what changes would you make in your system were you to begin again? • THE world's library CONGRESS. 711 Librarians ■were also requested to send all information as to their methods, and also add any remarks more fully explaining their differ- ent systems. From about 175 letters sent out, affirmative replies were received from 47. Either from -want of statistics or a want of appreciation of the information desired, many replies furnished little of value as to meth- ods pursued and results attained. Outside of Massachusetts and Hew York, there is hardly a State of the 14 reporting where more than one library employs either of these aids to circulation. Of libraries reporting branches, eight I'eport 1 branch, live 2 branches, three 3 branches, two 4 branches, two 5 branches, one 9 branches, one 13 branches, or a total of 67 branches. Of libraries reporting delivery stations, five report 1 station, three 2 stations, four 3 stations, two 4 stations, two 6 stations, three 10 stations, one 11 stations, one 30 stations, making a total of 114 deliveries. Of those reporting both branches and delivery stations, one reports 1 branch and 2 delivery stations, one 1 branch and 6 delivery stations, one 4 branches and 4 delivery stations, one 8 branches and 14 delivery stations, giving. a total of 14 branches and 26 delivery stations. Taken by location the reports stand as follows: Libraries. Brancbes. Deliver- iea. California Illinois Indiana Maryland Massachusetts. . Michigan Minnesota Missouri If ebraska ■- !New Hampshire Kew .7 iTsey NewYoi-k Ohio .• "Wisconsin England Total 1 33 10 GO 4 4 1 11 10 6 47 712 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. A list giving fuller details is herewith appended: States, etc. Names, etc. Branches Deliver- ies. California: 1 Illinois: 3 Ii (liana: Indianapolis Public library a 10 Marvland : Enoch Pratt Free Library 5 MHsanchnaetts: A "a warn Free public library ., 3 1 2 14 1 8 i.2 do do do do . 1 2 3 HaverliUl Town library 61 1 10 Korthampton Public library 1 4 Somerville do 2 "Weymouth Tufts Library g Woburn do 1 2 do Michigan : West Bay City 2 Minnpsota: Public library 4 1 4 Missouri : St. Louis do Nebraflka: do a4- 1 11 10 !Kew Hampshire: do New Jersev: New Yorlj : Now York City 5 2 1 Bo Ohio: Davton ao. ..^:;:::::: Id) do 1 en 3 /•■i 13 4 4 English libTaries. Birmingham Liverpool Newport Nottin frham do Sheffield Swansea do a To be opened October, 1893. b Branch deliveries. c Distributing a5fencie=i. e Two now being built. d Expect to start delivery stations. / Branch newsrooms. That more libraries have not adopted branches or delivery stations is because their establishment is -an experiment, evolved in the growth of the free public library system. The libraries in this country, as elsewhere, have passed through sev- eral stages, of which this is one of the latest. Where branches or deliveries can be used to advantage the system is destined to come into more general use. THE world's library CONGRESS. 713 In the first stage of library development more attention was paid to amassing a creditable collection of books than to putting it to a prac- tical and extensive use. The library, looked at from this standpoint, became a mere storehouse where information might be found by a privileged few, provided they knew where to look for it themselves, which was extremely doubtful; or provided the custodian of the col- lection could i)ut them on the track of the information for which they were in search, which, consideriug the lack of suitable arrangement and catalogs, was highly improbable. Such collections of books began to be formed in this country contemporaneously with the founding of our older institutions of learning, and to this highly commendable spirit we owe most of our large reference libraries, of which the college and State libraries, and those of historical and othei* societies, having for their particular aim the collecting of books on special subjects are excellent types. The primary aim of these libraries was to meet the needs of a restricted class — scholars and students of special subjects — rather than to cater to the intellectual requirements of the general public. The second period or stage of library development was begun when attention was first called to organizing public libraries about forty years since. It was the leading principle of the originators of this class of libraries that much might be done for the cause of education and for the entertainment of the general public by libraries having for their primary aim the circulation of books for home reading. As the people were to be beneficiaries it was but another step in this move- ment to decide that these libraries should be established and main- tained at the expense of those for whose benefit they had been called into being. Thus rose the laws for the founding and maintenance of public libraries by taxation. In this country the Boston Public Library stands foremost as a type of this class, and its history is the history of the free public library movement which forty years ago began to stir not only this country but England. Following, as it did, the first stage of library development, its promoters naturally adhered strongly to the ideas which had pre- vailed respecting the functions of a library down to that time. We therefore see in its Bates Hall the great importance attached to its ref- erence department. The free imblic library idea spread rapidly in New England, and especially in Massachusetts, till now no town or city government is con- sidered to have performed its duty to its citizens unless it has i)ro- vided them with a tax-supported public library. So great are the advantages which have risen from founding public libraries that the policy has rapidly spread throughout the country, and today we see libraries springing up in nearly every town and city where they have not heretofore been estabhshed. This impulse has been greatly accelerated by the wide-reaching work of the American Library Association since its formation in 1876, and its active career 714 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. lias doubtless done more to advance the cause of the free public library movement in this country than all other causes combined. Those having the management and care of our public libraries at heart have come to realize that the mere fact that a town or city has a well-equipped library, from which the public are free to draw books for home reading, does not necessarily mean that all the requirements for its most successful operation are fulfilled. A prominent librarian has well said that the time has come when it is as unreasonable to require the people of a large town or city to depend on a single library from which alone they can draw their books as it is to require them to buy all their groceries or meat at one store or market, or that they shall all attend the same church. ^'This spirit has brought about the third stage of library doveloj)- ment in. which its promoters aim to carry the library and its benign influences to the very doors of the people. This stage is one of recent growth; it might perhaps be more accurate to say it is even now in its formative period, for outside one or two leading libraries, branches and delivery stations are creations of the last few years, and are even yet in their experimental state, though in nearly every case yielding surprisingly gratifying results. ITo reference was made to this phase of library effort in the 1876 report on public libraries, exhaustive as was that document, and we look in vain for much light on this subject in the Library Journal, which contains the fullest history of the libraries of this country that can elsewhere be found. While it is generally admitted that in towns or cities of large area or having distinct centers of population the benefits of branches or delivery stations are great, there is difference of opinion as to which is better. In many places the diiference in expense settles the ques- tion of itself, as delivery stations can be successfully carried on at a far less cost than branches. It may be questioned whether, in cases where funds permit a choice, it is good policy to use public money in building up a series of branches, which are largely counterparts of each other and of the main library; thus scattering funds in forming several small libraries, rather than in building up a strong central library. Branches and delivery stations are managed in various ways : 1. Delivery stations.— We find the delivery station pure and simple, where books are collected and sent to the main library, and are there exchanged for new ones which are returned to the station where the borrowers get them. All accounts are kept at the library, the station being only a conduit through which books are sent and received. The library reporting the largest number of delivery stations, with- out other appendages, such as reading rooms or reference libraries, is the Jersey City Free Public Library. This library first opened 7 sta- tions, October 1, 1891. Their number has since been increased till THE world's libeary congeess. 715 now 11 are in successful operation. They are located from 1 to 4 miles from the library. Collections are made in the morning, and deliveries in the afternoon of the same day by a hired delivery wagon. About $2,000 a year is now paid for transportation. The station keepers are paid one-third of a cent for each volume, or borrower's card, returned to the library. The total circulation for the year ending November 30, 1892, was 172,225 volumes, or 49.9 per cent of the total circulation for home reading. The total cost of maintaining these branches was $2,230.54, an average of nearly 1.3 cents a volume. 2. Distributing agencies. — The plan suggested by the New Hamp- shire board of library commissioners uses what may be called distribut- ing agencies, in distinction from delivery stations. Enough books to meet requirements are sent to these agencies at stated intervals, say of one, three, or six months. For the time being these form the stock of the agency, and are distributed to borrowers and returned to be circu- lated again and again, till they are replaced by a new supply from the main library. While they are at the agency all accounts with the bor- rower are kept there independently of the main library. The first report says : One of the most troublesome qiiestious arising in many towns wlicucver the estab- lishment of a library is advocated is that of location. Local jealousies aro stirred up afresh and someticxea with the result of hindering the establishment of a library. In several cases, where there wore two or more villages in a town there has been a disposition to establish an independent library in each village. It has been the policy of our board to recommend the establishment of one central library, and then, if it was found necessary to have somo better facilities for the distribution of books, that distributing agencies bo established as .might bo convenient. In this way all records could bo kept at the central library, and whenever books wero transferred to the agency the same could bo charged and then credited when returned. The manifest advantage of such a system is that the library accounts oonid bo more accurately kept than if the libraries were more or less independent; and, again, the exact location of every book could at anytime bo ascertained at the central library (p. 11, 12). Then follow resolutions and rules relating to their operation. One small library only, the Leicester (Mass.) Public Library, reports this plan in operation-. It originated at that i)laee in 1869, and there are four agencies, which have been in operation ever since. These agencies are not strictly such as are planned by the New Hampshire commission, inasmuch as it is reported that they have "a very few permanent volumes." The town numbers 3,000 inhabitants, and the total annual income for library purposes is but ^480. About GO volumes are sent quarterly to each of its four agencies. This interesting case shows what can be done in small towns with limited incomes. The public library at Cleveland, Ohio, and also that at Milwaukee, Wis., is successfully carrying on a similar work, but uses schools instead of agencies as distributing points. A full account of the working of this plan is given by W. H. Brett, librarian of Cleveland, in a paper on " The relations of the public library to the public schools," read by him 716 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. before the department of superintendence of tlie National Educational Association, lield in Brooklyn, N. Y., February, 1892. This paper is printed in full in the proceedings, and has been separately reprinted, /^ 3. Delivery stations with reading rooms. — Probably the best, and certainly the largest, example of delivery stations, at which are reading rooms and a small library containing only books of reference, is that of the Chicago Public library. This library has 30 delivery stations, located at from 1 to 7 miles from the library. Collections and deliv- eries are made the same day by four delivery wagons, each of which is paid $1,350 a year. The station keepers are paid $10 a month for 500 volumes or less; $2 a hundred from 500 to 1,000 volumes, and fl for each 100 volumes over 1,000. The total circulation through the deliv- ery stations during the year ending May 31, 1893, was 422,812 volumes, or about 43 per cent of the entire circulation, the average cost of circu- lating each volume being about 2.87 cents. At six of these branches are reading rooms, each containiiig a file of from 80 to 100 periodicals, and from 500 to 1,500 volumes for reference use only. These were maintained in 1892-93 at a total expense of $12,114.51. 4. Branch libraries. — We find branch libraries pure and simple, or those that circulate their books independently of the main library, but which report to it, and whose borrowers are permitted to use it when- ever they wish to do so. The best example of this class is the Enoch Pratt Library, of Balti- more. This library was started in 1886 with four branch libraries, costing $50,000 ; a fifth has since been added. These branch libraries are in different quarters of the city, from 2 to 4 miles distant from the central library. They are stocked with 45,303 volumes, or more than half as many as are in the main library at Mul- berry street, which contains 77,410 volumes. -These branches therefore represent an expenditure of not far from $100,000. Two assistants and a janitor are employed in each branch at an annual cost of $840. The buildings will hold about 15,000 volumes each, but it is proposed to limit the number to 10,000. This limit lias already been nearly reached. The reading rooms are supplied with from 20 to 30 current periodicals, but nesvspai^ers are not taken. A few reference works are also pro- vided ill each. During the year ending January 1, 1893, there were circulated from these branches 184,500 volumes, or a little over 40 per cen t of the entire circulation of the library, which was 452,733 volumes. A comparison of the average expense of circulating each volume would be interesting, but want of suflEicient data prevents this being given. The librarian, Bernard C. Steiner, believes in delivery to branches, and intends to introduce it, in which case he would probably buy fewer books directly for the branches, thus keeping the number of volumes in the branch libraries within the proposed limits. THE world's LiBEARY CONGRESS. 717 5. Combined branch libraries and delivery r:.tations. — Tbe most prominent of tbe few examples of this combined syistem is the Boston Public Library. It carries on 8 branches and 14 deliveries. There are in these branches 139,281 volumes, ranging from 32,410 in thelloxbury branch to 11,192 in the South End branch. In these branches 42 per- sons are employed as librarians and assistants. In their reading rooms the best monthly and weekly illustrated papers are supplied, and each branch is provided with good cyclopedias, dictionaries, and other works of reference. Fourteen delivery stations are conducted in connection with the main library and its branches. Deliveries are made not only to the delivery stations, but also to the branches, in strong boxes, sent out daily by express. The station keepers are paid $350 a year for serv- ices, rent, and light. In some of the deliveries are reading rooms. During 1892, there were distributed through the branches and deliveries 479,632 volumes (if we read the report correctly) out-of a total circula- tion for home reading of 719,063. In this case the establishment of branch libraries was not undertaken till after the main library had amassed a collection of over 150,00,Q volumes, thus having a strong central library with which to begin its extending work. The gradual growth of the city by the annexation of its various suburbs gave it an opportunity of bringing under its management the various libraries which had previously been independ- ent. This was of great advantage to the smaller libraries, as practi- cally they added to their own resources those of the public library, which was many times their size. Unless the parent library is already firmly established and. has a large and strong collection of its own, with abundant financial support to carry it on successfully, as in this case, it may not be wise to scatter its funds in forming branches. No city seems better adapted by geo- graphic conformation and various centers of population for carrying on successfully a system of branches and delivery stations than Boston, yet the librarian, T. F. Dwight, thinks that were the work to be begun anew he would employ delivery stations only. _ . Other means of increasing the usefulness of libraries, of an analogous 'nature, are carried on by many libraries, such as the departmental libraries in colleges and universities. There is, however, this distinc- tion, the departmental library is the setting aside in a convenient loca- tion of books relating to a special subject or group of subjects for use by. those making special studies in those subjects, e. g., chemical books in a laboratory, botanical works in an herbarium, or books on political economy in its class room. This does not contemplate that the books shall be duplicated in the main library; it is rather a practical seques- tration to make them more useful or convenient to those specially inter- ested in them. Branch libraries, on the contrary, while not actually contemplating a duplication of the central library, really become so to a very great extent. 718 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. Another means of creating interest in books and their use is illns- tratod by the traveling libraries now sent out from the State library ia Albany to different parts of New York. This method is analogous to the distributing agencies recommended by the New Hampshire State library commission, but has a larger area of usefulness and is designed primarily to stimulate an interest in reading and the eventual founding of libraries in the places to which they are sent. To sum up, it seems to be the generally accepted opinion, so far as can be discovered from the libraries making use of either of these systems or their variants, that in large cities or towns where exist- ing libraries can be brought under the management of a strong, well- equipped, and efficiently managed public library, the arrangement is for their mutual advantage. If, however, the enterprise is a new one, it is thought by many a much better policy to confine the collection of books to a single main library, making it large and strong in works which individuals can not afford to buy for themselves — expensive art works, scientific and technical works, sets of periodicals, publications of learned societies, dictionaries of various languages, etc. A library thus thoroughly equipped is a power in its community, and may then well become a point from which distribution can be made to different localities within its area by deliveries and agencies. The question as to the best system for any particular library to follow must, therefore, be largely one of policy, governed by local requirements and the means which the library can command.^ Heating, Ventilation, and Lighting of Libraries. By NORMAND S. Patton, Architect, Chicago, 111. The problem of heating, ventilating, and lighting libraries does not differ essentially from the same problem in other buildings where peo- ple congregate. Therefore it is not a library problem, except in some special applications, and it is not so important to know the opinion of librarians on these topics as that of architects and sanitary engineers. I will try to give, in condensed form, the opinions of the best authorities on heating, ventilating, and lighting, not as a scientific treatise, but as jjractical hints, to which will bo added a considieration of the portions of a library which require special attention and where mistakes are most likely to be made. ' Discussion brought out the great diaadvantago of tlio delivery station as com- pared with, the branch, for it left out the personal work in guiding reading which is so vital to the best results, also that after a hard day's work people will go to a reading room in a branch near home when, if there were none nearer than the central library, they would stay at home or drop into a neighboring saloon. If means allow, the best plan seemed a branch with reading room oixuipped with reference books, periodicals, and a small stock of general literature and, most important, with a skillful attendant to give needed personal assistance in selection, But this more thorough provision is clearly much more costly than the delivery station. — M. D. THE world's library CONGRESS. 719 HEATING AND VENTILATION. These topics can not be considered apart from each other, because all tlie air brought in for ventilation in cold weather must be heated, and the kind of heating apparatus used has much to do with the system of ventilation that accompanies it, A perfect system will give inde- pendent control of the heating and ventilation, so that any room may be heated with or without ventilation, or ventilated with or without heating. This separate control of heating and ventilation is necessary because the two are not needed in the same relative proportion in different rooms, or in the same room at different times. Thus, if the number of occupants in a room be increased, the ventilation should be increased, but the heat diminished. Heating.— Heating is to offset cooling, A building is cooled in two -ways: (1) By loss of heat througli outside walls, windows, and roof;. (3) by introduction of cold air for ventUation. The ordinary rules by -which steam fitters figure the size of their apparatus are based on the cubic contents of the building. These rules are utterly useless and mislead- ing, because in buildings continuously heated, the cubic contents has no more to do with heating than has the color of the librarian's hair. When a cold room is first warmed, the whole volume of air and the substajQce of -walls and floors must be heated, requiring an excess of beating over what is needed to maintain the temperature once gained, For this reason tbere must be a reserve power that aan bo called on to heat up quickly, as on Monday morning if the building has been cold on Sunday. When the air in the building is once heated its volume does not concern us ; we need only restore the heat it loses. If a partition stands between two rooms, both of them warmed, it can not cause a loss of heat. The only walls that cool a room are those exposed to the weather. A large room exposed only on one end and having two windows would require less heating than a room say one-third the size exposed on two or three sides and having four windows. The glass of the windows, on account of its thinness, loses more heat than the thick walls; a square foot of glass losing as much heat as 5 to 10 square feet of wall surface. The amount of heat required by various rooms, aside from the ventila- tion, -will be in proportion to the amount of glass surface and its equiv- alent in exposed wall surface. Steam-heating contractors generally put enough radiation in a building, but fail to distribute it properly, over- heating some rooms while others are cold; Attention to the above principle will avoid this result. The roof often allows great loss of heat. Walls are thick and usually have air spaces, but roofs are often thin, permitting escape of heat in -winter and admitting it in summer. Roof plank should be 2 to 3 inches in thickness, and a tight floor laid in the attic to retain the warmth in the rooms below. 720 EDUCATION REPOKT, 1892-93. Our second source of cooling is the air admitted, -whether uninten- tionally through the cracks, or intentionally as ventilation. This air must bo heated. Ventilation costs in proportion to its efiSciency.' Apparatus. — The method of heating is often decided by the money available. The best method is by hot water. Its advantages over steam are: (1) A perfect control of temperature in all kinds of weather without use of complicated attachments; (2) greater economy of fuel. Steam is either boiling hot, or there is no steam at all. Therefore, in mild weather, the building, if heated at all, is overheated, with a cor- responding waste of fuel. For a building of moderate size, a hot-air furnace is by no means to be despised. It will give better ventilation than steam or hot water, as ordinarily j)ut in, and is much cheaper in first cost. Still another method of heating deserves to be better known — the combination of hot air and hot water. This is obtained by inserting a water-heating coil into a hot-air furnace, and connecting it with radia- tors. This retains all the advantages of the hot-air furnace and adds tjie direct radiation which can be carried to points too distant to be reached by hot air. It is intermediate in cost between hot air and hot water, and is more economical of fuel than hot air alone. Ventilation. — The amount of ventilation depends on the number of occupants of a room. In order to maintain a proper purity of atmos- phere, there should be supplied not less than 30 cubic feet of air per minute for each j)erson. As the air in a ventilating duct rarely moves more than 300 feet per minute, it will be seen that wo require a venti- lator about 1 foot square for every 10 persons. If gas is used for light- ing, additional ventilation is required; each gas burner being counted equivalent to 5 persons in vitiating air. If a reading room is occupied for several hours at a time, no less than the above amount of air should be provided ; but if a room is large in proportion to the number of occupants, and is occupied for only a short time, we may allow for the large volume of fresh air with which we start, and reduce ventilation somewhat. The book room being large in proportion to the number of occupants, the leakage around the windows may "provide sufBcient air, or windows can be opened where the draft will not be felt ; but if many are admitted to the shelves, it will be well to provide for changing the air once or twice an hour. Taking up the question of the means of producing the desired ven- tilation, there are several important principles to be observed. First, air will not move unless positive force is applied to it. To build a ventilator will not necessarily make ventilation. The forces used to move air are two: first, the mechanical method by means of a fan ' The thermostat attachment for automatic regulation of the heat was commended by several who had found it very useful. Warnings were given from others against heating through the floor. The apparatus was difficult to get at, and those com- pelled to stand or walk over the heated surface found it uncomfortable.— M. D. THE world's library CONGRESS. 721 driven by a steam engine or other motor. When an electric current can be obtained, a fan driven by this power gives a convenient and positive means of ventilation. We may use a fan to force in the fresh air or to exhaust the foul air, or in large buildings we may use both, thus getting a most complete control over the air currents. Such an apparatus can be used as well in summer as in winter, and is so pow- erful that high velocities can be secured in the air ducts, thus reducing their size and cost. The second and more usual method of ventilation is by the draft of a heated column of air. We need artificial ventila- tion when the outside air is cold 5 and in this case a flue, such as that of a fireplace, will have an upward draft. If such a flue be favorably located and surrounded by warm rooms, it will be a fairly efScient ven- tilator and give a velocity from 180 to 300 feet per minute, according to its height, temperature, and size. The higher and hotter a. flue, the more rapid its draft, and the larger its area, the less the retardation by friction. But if the flue be in an outside wall where it is chilled, it will probably give a downward instead of an upward draft. In such a case the flue must be heated by a fire, as in a grate, by steam pipes in the flue, by placing the ventilator next to the chimney or other source of heat, or by having gas jets in the flue. With this system of ventilation, the fresh air is brought in by the draft of the heating apparatus — either a hot-air furnace or a so-called "indirect" radiator, which is a coil of steam or hot water pipes iu the basement, through which the fresh air is forced; or a third method the "direct-indirect" radiator, which stands in the room to' be warmed and radiates heat from the surface, while in the center are flues to which air from outdoors is brought m a duct, and when heated is discharged at the top of the radiator. The system of ventilation by natural draft has the disadvantage that the forces producing the air current are not very powerful, and there is danger that at times the current will be reversed by the wind. If the wind were constant in force and direction, we could use it as a means of ventilation; but we can in any case make the wind counter- act its own mischief. If the tops of the chimneys and ventilators are carefully located so as to avoid adverse currents, the wind' will aid the draft. We can also make the wind force air into the building through the heating apparatus, by arranging air inlets on all sides of the build- ing, joining in a common chamber, and fixing in each inlet automatic valves which admit the air, but prevent its escape. In determining the location of the inlets and outlets for the air, it should be borne in mind that the foul air does not rise to the ceiling or fall to the floor, but diffuses rapidly through the whole room. The hot- test air, whether fresh or foul, will always rise to the ceiling, and the coldest air, whether fresh or foul, will fall to the floor. From this it follows that if we are to keep a room warm, we must take out the foul air at or near the floor, and if we wish to cool the room we must make ED 93 4e 722 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. an opening near the ceiling. The inlets maybe in the floor or in the wall at any height ; the main point to be observed is to prevent an unpleasant draft oil the occupants. There is the least danger from drafts where the inlets arc in the floor, the principal objection to this arrangement being the accumulation of dirt in the registers. When there is a fire- place, it is well to let it act er cent on the average, a low figure. Premiums on libraries vary about 300 per cent. In discussing at Chicago the policy of insuring, it was thought by some that a library financially able should carry its own insurance, particularly if it was supported by the city or State.' Of the 56 libraries noted, all except 5 own their buildings, and 39 give valuation as $8,755^617. Insurance figures on these buildings are not very complete or satisfactory. Oflcial records show that there are 986 libraries in the United States owning buildings. 2. Librarians believe their books should be stored in fireproof struc- tures, and are building, so far as means will allow, on fireproof prin- ciples. Absolutely fireproof buildings are costly, and a substitute for them is often the only alternative-. As an indication of the practice ou this point, 22 libraries report fireproof buildings, while 5 buildings are so called, 11 are partly fireproof, and 18 are not. These buildings are generally constructed of brick, or more commonly of brick and stone. Interior construction in these buildings is not so decidedly fire resistifig. The floors in most cases are made of fireproof materials, as fire brick, wood laid in cement tiling, iron girders and brick, etc. ^Vood enters largely into the construction of the cases (37 so reporting), a construction not as objectionable as it might seem, provided floors and ijartitious are properly protected. Iron is used more in balconies and stairs. ■ Special attention has been given by this association to architecture. At the Cincinnati conference in 1882 the first report on this topic was made. Five years later Mr. Larned reports that 18 libraries had been completed in the two previous years, and that 23 were in progress, many being fireproof. Two years later Mr. Van !N"ame, at the St. Louis conference, reported 55 buildings completed, or under construc- tion. Some allowance should be made for overlapping. He notes that the buildings for our best treasures are to be fireproof, there being 13 such. Many were the gifts of i^rivate individuals. ^^0 illustrate the advance made since 1876 in the erection of fireproof buildings we quote comments made respecting the Birmingham disaster in 1877 : "The loss by the Birmingham fire," said the New York Trib- 'Tho insurance companies charge the wholo amount of the risk plus running expenses plus their profits. Therefore the premium is greater than the risk, and wealthy cities and towns, like wealthy merchants, may insure themselves at a profit, and in the long run greater care ia taken of uninsured property. Usually the same appropriation can he had for the library whether it uses part of it for insurance or not, and in the rare cases of fire the city or town makes a special appropriation to replace. Those who nrge most strongly the greater economy of this method also admit that it wo.uld he unwise for any librarian or trustees to omit insurance unless they first secored the formal approval of the authorities, thus forestalling the violent criti- cism sure to be made in case of a heavy loss. — M. D. 728 une, "is a lesson to us on this side of the ocean of the necessity of pro- viding absolutely safe structures for our own precious collections, many of which are undoubtedly in constant danger of conflagration, and are not contained in structures worthy of being called fireproof at all." Justin Winsor, referring to the preservation of books and to the same fire, said: "Too large a proportion of such edifices of to-day ignore utterly this consideration." Many so-called fireproof buildings of 1876 would not pass inspection as such to-day. Bad construction has been the rule rather than tbe exception in our public buildings till recent years, and to-day we are far from, emancipated from its influence. F. 0. Moore, president of the Continental Insurance Company, New York, and an authoritative underwriter, in a brochure on "Economical fire-resisting construction," says: "Ifc may safely be assumed that fully 40 per cent of the losses of this single company, and therefore of every other, are due to incorrect construction of build- ings. This means that nearly $50,000,000 worth of property is destroyed annually in this country whicli might be saved if our methods of con- structing buildings were more nearly correct." lidward Atkinson, the economist, in an article in the Century, Feb- ruary, 1889, entitled "Slow -burning construction," says: "The worst examples of combustible architecture are to be found among our pris- ons, hospitals, asylums, and almshousos; next among college buildings, libraries, and schoolhouses." Quoting from the Insurance Chronicle, he says that in 1887 126 colleges and libraries were burned. The libraries referred to were undoubtedly not of great value and poorly i)rotect«d. Eisks on the better j)rotected libraries are good. Speaking of libraries the ^tna Insurance Company, of Hartford, says: "We consider the most desirable risks those that are kept on iron racks, or in iron cases, in fireproof buildings; libraries in buildings of ordinary construction are not considered very desirable risks." The Liverpool, London and Globe respond, "We find libraries, as a rule, profitable risks." There were some reasons, and cogent ones, too, why library build- ings, as well as other structures, in the few decades past were so ill constructed. Architecture as an art was almost unknown then in this country; technical schools had not been established in which archi- tecture was taught, and the country was not prepared to adorn its cities and towns with edifices that combined, with beauty and solidity, qualities of construction that would make them absolutely fireproof. Tn place of the old fire traps, which were a menace not only to the books but to the librarian and his readers, fireproof buildings are rising all over the land, ornaments to city and town, and safe depositories of the collections they are gathering from year to year. The question was asked, "Is your building and are your books bet- ter secured from fire than in 1876"?" Twenty-six replied, yes. Eight of the remainder were established since. 3. The importance of keeping records or inventories of libraries, which can be used to prove value, is appreciated as shown by returns. THE world's library CONGRESS. 729 Only six report no records usable for such a purpose. Methods for protecting these records are considered belo\^^. 4. Nearly all libraries report appliances for extinguishing ftres, as hose, water pails, fire extinguishers, Are axes, etc. The British Museum has a fire brigade composed of members of its staff, with a code of rules for their government. (See Lib. Jour., 4 : 52.) UNSETTLED QUESTIONS. While libraries are being constructed more and more on tested fire- proof principles, it is also true that these principles are of recent adoption in many particulars, and as yet not fully comprehended nor put in practice by all. These may be briefly set forth, substantiated by authorities. 1. Two prime principles enter into the construction of a fireproof building: (1) It should be fireproof without and (2) nonflre communi- cating within. Material formerly supposed to be fireproof has failed under the test. To have said a few years ago that iron and granite were not fireproof would have made one a laughing stock, but granite in the Boston fire of November, 1889, crumbled into sand ; and iron is no longer considered safe unless covered with fireproof material. It has been said that there was not a fireproof building in the track of the great Chicago fire. The Boston fire of 1889 was checked when it reached "the brick wall and iron shutters of a building of superior construction." Brick stands first among building materials in fire-resisting qualities. Prof. G. P. Merrill, curator of geology in the United States Museum, in his work on Stones for Building,' page 356, says: Data are not at hand for estimating accurately the comparative enduring powers 'of various stones under these trying circumstances. It seems, however, to be well proven that of all stones granite is the least fireproof, while the fact that certain of the fine-grained siliceous sandstones are used for furnace backings, would seem to show that if hot absolutely fireproof, they are very nearly so. Professor Winchell places fire-resisting stones in this order: (1) Mar- ble, (2) limestone, (3) sandstone, (4) granite, (5) conglomerate. Since the days of elevators the roof has proved to be one of the most exposed parts of buildings, because of the draft through the shaft. A fire beginning in the basement is drawn at once to the roof, which, if hollow and combustible, is in a few moments a mass of flame. The roof should be constru(;ted to prevent drafts of air within it, and should be of fireproof material, as metal, porous terra cotta metal, and covered fire brick. 2. A building of fine, solid, fireproof exterior may yet be a fire trap. " The first principle to be observed," says Mr. Moore, the underwriter, " with a view to resisting fire, is to exclude air drafts from those por- ' New York State Museum Bulletins No. 3 (out of print) and No. 10, on Building Stone in New York, are also of value in this connection. — M. D. 730 EDUCATION EEPORT, 1892-93. tions of the building which are A^ital to its endurance, viz, floors, roof, partitions, etc. Into all these wood may safely enter if drafts be pre- vented by incombustible material, such as mortar or cement." A fire- proof building will be so constructed inside as to consist of distinct compartments, separated by partitions of brick, terra cotta, etc., while its floors will be laid in cement, or be composed of incombustible mate- rial, and its ceilings laid on metallic lathing, or otherwise protected from fire aud vermin. Incombustible cases, stairs, and balconies will increase the security. y^ basis of rating insurance indorsed by the Few York Board of Fire Underwriters, If ational Board of Fire Underwriters, and other boards has been prepared and is embodied in the " Universal mercantile schedule." The basis of rating is a standard building in a standard city, and is 25 cents per $100. On this basis rates vary according to construction and environment of each separate edifice. From the schedule of January, 1893, we quote the requirements of a standard building: A standard louilding is one having walls-of brick or stone (brick preferred), not less than 12 inches thick at top story (16 inches if stone), extending through and 36 inches above roof in parapet and coped, and increasing 4 inches in thickness for each story below to the ground, the increased thickness of each story to be utilized for beam ledges. Ground floor area not over 2,500 square feet (say, 25 by 100) ; height not over four stories, or 50 feet; floors of 2-inch plank (3 inches better) covered by seven-eighths or 1 incli flooring, crossing diagonally, with waterproof paper or approved fire-resisting material between (if tin or sheet iron between, see deduc- tions); wooden beams, girders, and wooden story posts or pillars 12 inches thick, or protected iron columns; elevators, stairways, etc., cut off by brick, walls or plaster on metallic studs and lathing, communications at each floor protected with approved tin-covered doors and fireproof sills; windows and doors on exposed sides protected by approved tin-covered doors and shutters; walls of flues not less than 8 inches in thickness, to be lined with fire brick, well-burned clay or cast iron, and throat capacity not less than 61 square inches if steam boilers are used; all floor timbers to bo trimmed at least 4 inches from outside of flue; heated by steam; lighted by gas; cornices of incombustible material; roof of metal or tile; if partitions are hollow or walls are furred off there must be fire stops at each floor. It may seem strange that wooden girders and posts are recommended. Mr. Moore, before quoted, whose work has the commendation of the American Architect, says that unless iron girders are protected by terra cotta or burnt-clay brick, they are not as safe as wood, provided wooden jiillars or girders are 2 inches thicker than required to bear the superimposed weight. The cliarred wood acts as a shield to retard combustion. Iron is treacherous, and under a heat of 1,000° F. or more will expand, if not fuse, and if proper allowance is not made for this expansion, will throw the walls. Two inches should be allowed at each end for a 50-foot girder. The practice now seems to be very general to cover iron with hollow brick or other fireproof material, to prevent this expansion. Further, the building referred to above should have its doors and . shutters covered with tin. It has been demonstrated that a door of THE world's LIBEARY CONGRESS. 731 sofb wood covered with tin is better than one entirely of iron. Iron will curl. Thirty-five libraries report no fireproof doors and shutters, and iron is generally used for the purpose. Gas lighting is here recommended, but the New York branch of the Liverpool, London and Globe Insurance Company, in a letter to the writer, approves of electric light. Improved installation is doubtless recommending its use. The importance of fire stops can not be too strongly emphasized) Not all libraries can erect thoroughly fireproof buildings, but the alter- native is not a fire trap for human sacrifice. Elevators, hollow parti- tions, hollow roofs and floors, and defective flues have in the last few years been the means of destroying millions of property and many lives. The object of fire stops is to close up all air passages in floors, par- titions, etc., with plaster or cement, and thus prevent fires from spread- ing from one compartment to another, turning a fire trap into a kind of slow-burning building, and possibly holding the fire till the fire engines arrive and the inmates escape. The fire stops can be used at little expense, and there can be no excuse for omitting them from any except thoroughly fireproof buildings. A slow-burning building (technically factory construction) is one in which the wooden material is consolidated in such a way that the fire can be held in check. There are ho concealed spaces by which the fire can pass from one room to another. Every part is open, so that water can reach the fire. Wood and iron are exposed to two enemies, dry rot in the one case and rust in the other. The precautions against fire by exclusion of air drafts and the pro- tection of the iron may tend to develop both of these weaknesses. As a preventive, beams should be bored, and iron coated with a material that is not an active absorbent of moisture, such as plaster of paris and cement. Lime mortar is a preventive of rust, as well as of dry rot. Wrought iron is more susceptible to rust than cast iron. The latter oxydizes only on the surface; wrought iron is consumed by rust. The action of rust on steel is not well known, and yet this material is com- ing into extensive use in constructing steel-skeleton buildings, like the Masonic Temple, the Woman's Christian Temperance Building in Chi- cago, the World Building, the Plaza Hotel, etc., in New York. I know of no library adopting this style. The advantages are that steel costs less than wrought iron, that the curtain walls of masonry, 12 to 20 inches thick, not being supporting walls, need not be much thicker at the base than at the top, thus leaving very much more room on the lower floors, a great economic gain.' Care of inventories. — Inventories of a library should be kept in safes outside the building. This point is emphasized by such companies as the Liverpool, London and Globe. "Catalogues," say they, "should always be kept outside the library building for reference in case a loss 1 See Skeleton Construction in Buildings, by William H. Birkmire (Wiley). 732 should occur, showing origmal cost of books, and as full a description as possible." The Home says: "It is of the utmost iraportante that a complete catalogue of the library should be kept in some safe place away from the library itself." The practice of libraries in this matter is not in accord with these recommendations, only 9 keeping their rec- ords in safes or vaults outside, while 17 do not protect in the building and 10 make no response. Libraries should be managed on business principles, and the cost of the books should be recorded and an approx- imate valuation of gifts kept, and these records preserved outside, so that they can be produced in case of fire. A duplicate accession cata- logue of the library of the Young Men's Christian Association of New York is kept outside in safe-deposit vaults. The last catalog is occa- sionally taken from the vaults and written up and the copying certified by affidavit. The iEtna Insurance Company recommends, also, that the record of loans in circulating libraries be kept in a safe place. 3. Fireproof buildings and fire-protected compartments are costly equipments, but a closed door or shutter, a pail of water in a con- venient place, a watchman's presence at the moment of peril, may avail more than all; and yet these are often considered of minor importance till some day it is found that a cup of water, if it had been accessible, or a fireproof door, if it had been closed, would have prevented the sacrifice of a valuable library. Of 56 libraries reporting, 31 have a watchman, 8 others have a jani- tor on the premises, while 17 have no such guardian. 4. With respect to iron shutters, only 16 have them, 8 do not require them, while 32 others are without them; 36 have no fireproof doors, 11 have them, while 7 report them partially fireproof. Light should not be shut out from a library for the purpose of lessen- ing the hazard of fire from windows, though this was done in the case of a prominent library. Insurance companies do not, as a rule, make special arrangements with libraries as to settlement in case of loss. Seven only report such agreements, as follows: a We have, in accord with underwriters' rules, placed a valuation of $100,000 on. the collection and insured to 75 per cent of that in order to escape the liability of being coinsurers; 6. Our inventory is to be accepted as issued in our printed reports. e. Files of accession books, etc., are to be proof of value. (J. Policy requires, in case of loss, itemized list of destroyed articles, sworn to by librarian. e. Shall maintain insurance upon above-described property to its full cost value. /. It is stipulated that we can not recover more than the cost price of books pur- chased. (/. A fixed valuation is agreed to as of date of policy. Two libraries file a list of rare books or MSS. with the insurers. -Eleven libraries of the 66 have had fires, 9 of which were insured. THE world's library CONGRESS. 733 Fifteen libraries insure imported books in transit, 8 others some- times. One library effects a floating insurance on books lent to its branches for lecture purposes. lu the conference discussion of this paper it was ascertained that one library insured its card catalogs. It was said that bookbinders were not responsible for loss by fire while books were in their hands. One librarian reported that he insured books at the bindery. A floating insurance could be effected on books at the bindery by making the amount sufacient to cover the value that would be repre- sented there at any time during a certain period. Fourteen libraries are in more or less jeopardy ft'om water overheadj and 11 have suffered in consequence, or from overflows and leaks. "If any building," says Dr. W. F. Poole, "should be practically fire- proof, it is a library building," and "a wooden library building without any of the modern fireproof devices is a fire trap and its construction a crime." It may not be possible to erect in all cases a perfectly fire- proof building, for that means a liberally-supplied exchequer, but no library should be deposited in a building that has not the inexpensive safeguards that have been named and are within reach of all. LoAver rates of insurance will result from added securities, valuable collec- tions of books will not be exposed to so great risks, and public confi- dence and support may be expected. The library that looks for valu- able gifts should have them so well housed and cared for that books will be drawn in as well as drawn out. KEFERKNCKS. American Architect, Oct. 11, 1890, p. 2B. Fire protection of public buildings. Jan. 17, 1891, p. 32. Fire-resisting door«. Jan. 31, 1791, p. 79. Fire stops. American Architect and Building News, Aug. 8, 1891, p. 89. Slow-burning construc- tion. Atkinson, Edward. Slow-burning construction, (See Century, Feb., 1889.) Birkmire, W. H. Skeleton construction in buildings. N. Y., 1893. Moore, F.C. Economical fire-resisting construction. N. Y., 1892. pm. Universal mercantile schedule. N. Y., 1893, pm. Fixtures, Furnitube, and Fittings. By Hejtry J. Care, Public Librarian, Scranton, Pa. The topics covered by the foregoing alliterative and comprehensive heading might, in one sense, be held to include almost everything per- taining to a library, except its building or quarters and its stock of literature. Under certain other heads, likewise assigned for similar treatment at this time, however, there is likely to be due consideration of the 734 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. necessary appliances connected witli each of sucli particular topics. It is proper, therefore, that this paper shall, so far as may be, refrain from trenching on those special fields. As to any conclusions regarding best methods- or the most api^roved forms of a library accessory which may be drawn from current prac- tice of the users thereof, it must also be kept in mind that the older libraries are more often unable to change, and so of necessity continue devices which later libraries free to act at pleasure as carefully avoid. Therefore answers to queries, or statistical circulars bearing on many library furnishings, are not always the best basis for opinions, nor likely to show fully the real progress made in such matters. One of the earliest and most efiective agencies toward a betterment and reasonable uniformity in library supplies grew immediately out of the formation of the A. L. A. in 1876, through the acts of its coopera- tion committee. The reports of that committee as given in the Library Journal for several successive years are yet valuable reading for theit full discussions of the several matters under study. Prom the work of that committee grew a cooperative supply department (aided largely by the personal enthusiasm and persevering support of one person), afterwards fostered through various ^•icissitudes to later and present survival as the Library Bureau. With no intent to advertise, but rather for convenient reference and brevity in the present paper, as well as for aid to seekers, no hesitation is felt in citing the ample and comprehensive illustrated catalog of the Library Bureau as being both an available and very desirable guide in fitting up a library. Little comment will follow herein, therefore, as regards the major part of the articles described in that publication, since its chief library specialties represent the tested and elaborated ideas of ample cooperative experience, and the purchasers thereof maj^ reap full benefit with a minimum of trouble to themselves. As to the innumerable stationers' articles used by librarians, the personal preference and experience of the particular user must be the guide, so that consideration of those items is outside the scope of this paper. GENERAL PRINCIPLES. Good principles to observe in procuring or planning the furnishing of a library are: (1) Usefulness and adaptation to the circumstances of each particular case, and (2) true economy may often be practiced in obtaining the better, though more expensive, article at the outset. The limitations of the human form and convenience are no less fac- tors in the case, and necessarily have much to do with establishing certain sizes and shapes, c. g., a library counter, of a height to match certain other decorative finish and woodwork may, in the long run, prove an unmitigated nuisance because just too low for convenient service standing and too high to use sitting. Undesirable tables with massive and elaborate legs and fancy corners, and chairs having THE world's library CONGRESS. 735 extraordinary seats and terrific backs, are not an unknown thing in some libraries wliere so-called artistic features have been allowed to prevail. Libraries must almost inevitably be maintained at an extreme of economy, therefore every superfluous carving or molding which serves as a dust catcher means so much more janitor's work and consequent burden. So in the use of dark woodwork and wall decoration is entailed years of penalty in added cost of lighting over that needed for the same interior in light colors. BOOK STOKAGK AND SHELVING. Since the chief feature of a library is apt to be its books, one would naturally expect first consideration given to shelving and like conveuT iences for holding them. Mr. Gladstone, in his notable paper on " Books and the housing, of them" (Nineteenth Century, 27, 384-396, March, 1890; also issued sep. arately as a pamphlet), has most pertinently said that "The objects to be contemplated in the bestowal of our books are three : economy, good arrangement, and accessibility with the smallest possible expenditure of time." His remarks were especially about xJrivate collections, bwt the statements apply equally to public libraries. - 'Sone too much has been printed on this important and fundamental matter of providing suitable accommodations for the books. Some of the most salient and instructive statements, from the modern American standpoint, are by Dr. William F. Poole, his earlier one being on the "Organization and managenient of public libraries" (United States special report on public libraries, 1876), with illustrations. A subse- quent paper is on "The construction of library buildings," read before the A. L. A. at its Washington conference of 1881 {L.j. 6: 69-77; Am. Architect, 10, 131; and separately by the United States Bureau of Education as Circular of Information No. 1, 1S81, etc.) ; and a later one, on "Small library buildings," was read before the A. L. A. at the Lake George meeting of 1885 {L.j. 10: 260-256). His other writings elab- orate his well- sustained and progressive views regarding book storage and large libraries. A careful and comprehensive study of "Library shelving," by Melvil Dewey, with illustrative diagrams, appeared in Library Notes (No. 6) 2: 95-122, September, 1887, and as such is worthy of note, though others may not adopt all his conclusions. Seight. — Without going into many details, it maynow besaid that the weight of experience and best practice favors shelving all books within reach of an average person standing on the floor, or at an extreme height of 7 feet 6 inches to 8 feet. This is true whether for stack construction, wall cases, or open ranges in high rooms. In the latter case the part of the room above the shelving, and not otherwise used, gives access to light and air, which is more essential than utilizing the same spaco for books. 736 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. Asinstauced in recent construction, however, some librarians deem it wise to carry the shelving up to 8 feet 6 inches, or even 9 feet, with a view to having one or two more rows of shelves all over the library ■ for future needs. While the extra high shelves need not be used at the outset, they can, by means of bracket steps and handles on the up- rights be readily reached and utilized when pressure for space makes it necessary. Others having equal or more experience in the use of such accessories do not favor them nor find them as convenient in practice as in theory. Especially is this true where women or boy assistants are concerned, some physicians strongly deprecating the use of such steps by women. Form. — Using wall surface only is wasteful; on the contrary, book- cases of double face approached by aisles on either side give a maximum capacity for a given floor area. Center partitions are unnecessary and better omitted in such cases, while the shelves can be made movable at little, if any, more cost than if all are fixed. If, for special reasons of local construction or to provide for future carrying strength, some sl;e}ves must be fixed, let it be merely those at top and bottom and one other at a height of say 3 feet from the floor with all intermediate shelves adjustable. . Dimensions. — Little diflQculty need be had in deciding on some uni- form multiple of shelf length for use in a given instance, thus having a standard shelf all through the library. Such length when not less than 2 feet 6 inches nor more than 3 feet is found to be best both as regards convenient handling and interchangeability and for an economical cut- ting of material. Preferably a medium length of 2 feet and 8 or 9 inches will divide up space with good eifect. The advantages to be derived from the adoption of such a standard length are many. For most books which cirpulate, 7 to 7| inches gives ample width of shelf; and if the shelves are placed at due intervals of height, say 9 to lOJ inches, provision is made for fully 90 to 95 per cent of the books in modern public libraries, together with ample space for air and light and moderate freedom from dust.' A limited amount of adjustable wall shelving 12 inches wide will accommodate the exceptional sized works which circulate. For reference works, cases having a fixed ledge at say 3 feet from the floor are desirable, and may be of either wall or double-faced construe- •Exhaustive study in the library school for several years has led to the wide adoption of 75 centimeters, or 30 inches, as the best standard length for ordinary shelves, and 93 centimeters or 36| inches for shelves likely to be used for standard- size files and pigeon-hole cases. The A. L. A. fifteen years ago adopted a standard- size scale by which 25 centimeters is the largest boolc markedS-^ or 0. Theresultisof course the adoption of 10 inches as the standard minimum distance between shelves. The ledge suits the average reader best when placed above the three lower 10-incli shelves, and If there are five more shelves above the ledge, the total height of the case is 7 feet 8 inches. Protracted experiments by the library school have failed to find better standards than the above. — M. D. THE world's LIBEARY CONGRESS, 737 tiou. If wall cases are adopted, make tlie upper shelves each about 10 inches and those below the ledge 15 to 18 inches wide; and the latter, at least, will prove more convenient if made adjustable. If the refer- ence cases are double-faced and approachable from either side, the shelves may serve full as well if respectively 2 or 3 inches narrower than those against the wall— i. e., 8 inches for those above and 12 to 15 inches for those below the ledge. Need for special cabinets and lockers for rarities and works beyond common size will vary. EoUers, sliding shelves, and revolving tables should be used for art and other large books specially exposed to injury. Avoid doors, if possible; or, otherwise, if absolutely required, use wire screens or grating rather than glass. Hard woods give best results in shelf and case construction, but the shelves may be of pine for sake of lightness. The edges of all-shelves should be rounded; and iinally an oil rubbed finish used instead of paint, shellac, or mere varnish alone. Storage. — As regards storage in stacks having superimposed cases with floors over each tier, or, on the contrary, shelving in ranges of cases but one tier high in open rooms having ample light and air-space above, much has been said and plausible arguments can be given on either side. The seeming weight of opinion, all things considered, is against the stack-room system, despite its compact warehouse facilities for large collections of books.^ If the most recent views regarding open shelves for all are correct and prove t-o be in the true line of library progress, (as the writer and many others fully believe), a combination of the double-facing open ranges on one floor with the old-time alcove form seems quite likely to prevail in the immediate future; but, as frequently happens in all matters of library economy, local circumstances exert a determining influence on individual practice. Therefore much depends on who goes' to the shelves as well as on the ground space at command; while economy and convenience in service, and in heating and lighting, must be pro- vided for as well as book capacity. As a general principle galleries are to be avoided as a device of the evil one, equally ruinous and destructive both to human life and that of the books. In exceptional cases, however, an essential purpose can be attained only by the use of a gallery; but experience does not favor such use except under cogent necessity. If in original construction open-room storage is provided, with high ceilings and cases extending but part way (say 7 to 8 feet), and future necessities absolutely require use of the upper space, then let the cases be floored over, and the semistories thus made used as independent floors. In stack-room construction opinions as to solid or perforated floors do not agree; but latest experience seems to concur in favor of solid 'Many leading librarians are equally confident that the great growth in the use of stacks in recent years is based on satisfactory reasons. — M. D. ED 93 47 738 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. ones, with ventilation at the ends of cases and possibly along the front edges also. Windows at the ends of cross aisles are the most practical daylight reliance and are sufacient for a reasonable width of building having adequate space in the aisles. Skylights are of little value, and prove both troublesome and injurious. For stacks, as for other library shelving, wood seems really the pref- erable material, all things considered. A possible exception may be made for floors, which may be stronger, tighter, and more fireproof, if of iron. As to first cost, iron is usually though not always more expen- sive. Wooden uprights and shelves are generally cheaper than iron ; and, in turn, admit of better construction and finish, besides looking better and wearing the bindings less. There are a number of special shelving devices on the market, mostly patented, and amply urged by those interested; but time has yet to prove their real efficiency, and the item of first cost still stands largely in the way of very general trial of most of them. COUNTERS AND DELIVERY DESKS. These are usually made to correspond to the features of the particu- lar building, and personal preference may be allowed sway in the style and interior arrangement of such articles. Conforming to average humanity and kindred uses, as in banks, rail- road and other public ofiaces, counters where customers are to beserved standing are most convenient when 42 inches high; this height, too, is easy for writing. The same result may be attained by a counter 3 feet high having a desk of 6 inches more superimposed. If to be used sit- ting, then 2 feet 6 inches is an average most convenient height, as for tables and office desks. A counter top should be of fair width, say 2 feet or more, and project considerably on each side beyond the support, thus serving to protect the front from being marred by feet, and also making it feasible for clerks inside to sit down. Good light at counters and delivery desks, both daylight and artifi- cial, is an essential often overlooked. TABLES AND READING DESKS. For library service the less that architects and furniture designers of the "high art" order have to do with tables, desks, and chairs the hap- pier is apt to be the result to the steady users of such furnishings. Tables. — A substantial construction, plain rather than ornate, and not too large or heavy should be the rule. From 29 to 30 inches^ is a standard height, and casters are not desirable. With a top of 2 feet 10 'Tall people can not sit ■with comfort at a 29-incli table, and the length from knee to floor can not be reduced; but it is easily increased by a hassock for short readers ■who use a higher chsiir. Some libraries ■which study comfort most adopt 31 inches as standard height and then have adjustable chairs and hassocks so that short and tall readers are both suited. — M. D. THE WOKLD'S library CONGRESS. 739 inches by 5 feet, six persons, two on eacli side and one at each end, may- be seated without crowding. If 6 feet long it will admit of putting three at each side, while for proportion's sake the width may be 3 feet. Slides (or movable shelves), under the top, placed at suitable intervals, are often of great service. For smaller tables, those 2 feet 6 inches by 3 feet 6 inches, and also others 3 feet square on top, prove convenient. In rooms for juveniles it may be desirable to make some tables of less than standard height, but usually a variation in the chairs accomplishes the same object.^ Reading desks. — Eeading desks, as distinguished from tables, are more generally made for special instances and are presumably fixed rather than movable. Like counters, therefore, they should harmonize with the finish of the building and fit the space at command. Dimen- sions and heights should be proportioned to the probable users, as before suggested. Office and cataloger's desks. — These may be made to order, but at present a perfection of style and convenience, at moderate cost, is found in many regularly on the market, so that a suitable supply is most simple and readily attained.^ ' Foot rests or hassocts ought to be provided, as it is cruel and injurious for a child to sit for hours with feet dangling above the floor. — M. D. 'Much of the cooperative work which has accomplished so much iii the past sev- enteen years is due to adoption of certain standard sizes for cards, sheets, blanks, and for cases, trays, drawers, and pigeonholes in which they are used or filed. It is a period of unprecedented growth in libraries and as a result there has been a change of rooms, methods, and fittings to meet the new and larger requirements. Convenience and economy make it as important to work by standard sizes as it is in a factory. It adds nothing to first cost,, but saves time and money at every readj ust- ment, because the parts often interchange in ways entirely unforeseen at the outset. Those who have tested the principle urge its adoption most earnestly. Much ia accomplished by adopting a series of standard sizes for an individual library, but much more is gained without added cost if the staadarda most widely used by other libraries are taken without change, omitting any not needed and sup- plying in the very rare easea where some not in the list are really required. Nine times out of ten, one who can free himself from prejudice will find that the standard size nearest what he has in mind is really just as satisfactory as the odd one to which he inclines simply because he has become accustomed to it for that use. The cooperation committee studied this question at its first appointment in 1876 and its work has been kept up by the libr.iry school. For many years certain standard sizes have been widely used without change and are much the safest series to adopt, both because «f their wide adoption by others and more for their merit as represent- ing so muich experiment and experience. These are, for slips, cards, and blanks, V (visiting-card size), 5 by 7^ cm. ; P (postal-card size), 7^ by 12= cm. ; N (note), 12= by 20 cm. ; L (letter), 20 by 25 cm. The standards most used are P and L. V ia used for call slips and compact indexes where little goes on the card. G (check size, 2' by 5 cm., or just one-third ' V) is used for coat checks, tags, labels, etc. E (receipt, 7^ by 20 cm.), four V's together, is used for receipts, bank diecks, drafts, aud fits pockets, envelopes, etc., that hold bank bills. Half this length, or two V's (7= by 10 cm.), is used for eatar log or index cards for commercial and other work in which, instead of book titlee. 740 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. Chairs.— Much the same is true regarding chairs as of office desks. Yet for fairly good appearance, durability, and average comfort, prob- ably the well-known bent- wood chairs are preferable. The foreign chair is stronger and of better finish, but the American make is good and its rattan seats often prove more satisfactory than those imported. Some patterns of simple dining-room chairs have also been found quite satis- factory and serviceable. Wire hat racks placed beneath the chairs at small cost serve a good purpose. For consulting printed catalogs and lists in the delivery room, a counter top or ledge of table height, provided with round-top store stools, fastened to the floor at needed intervals, is a convenience. Umbrella stands and hat racks.— For the former no really satis- factory article is regularly "in the trade" of either furniture or hard- ware dealers; nor are the usual combined hat and umbrella stands for hallways in residences satisfactory for libraries. For limited use the foreign made "bent- wood" stands or trees, with drip pan on the floor, are convenient and ornamental, without being very expensive. Such, with hat holders beneath the chairs, -provide moderate accommodation without annoying frequenters of the library or being much in their way. short entries are made, for -which 10 cm. give ample length. In the same way I (index) size (5 by 125 cm ) was largely Bsed for hook titles, though of late years very few libraries adopt it, as all cooperative cataloging is based on P size, which experience has shown to be much better in most cases. L size is the largest that goes on the standard shelf, of which it represents a sec- tion 2 cm. high and 20 wide. For blank hooks, letter heads, office forms, manu- script for printer, and nearly all uses, this size or something very near it seems to have been independently evolved in all sections as most convenient. For printed books it is modified to M (magazine size, 17^ by 25 cm.), so largely adopted by maga- zines. This is the largest book that goes on standard shelves. Trimming by binder equals squares of boards, so that the bound copy is the same height as the paper. This is also afavorite size for library catalog and bulletins. The sizes have from the first been given in the international or metric measures, which should be followed instead of the rough equivalents in inches, as the differ- ence between a card 7' cm. high and 3 inches is ijV of an inch or just enough to prevent proper handling of the card catalog. On this account it is unsafe to use catalog cards made by ordinary stationers or paper dealers. Their method of cutting usually results in variations of 1 mm., or one twenty-fifth of au inch. If a card 1 mm. lower comes between two of proper height, the finger in turning will bridge from No. 1 to No. 3 and No. 2 will be skipped. Novices not understanding this sometimes make costly mistakes by failing to get accurately cut cards, which cost much more. For pigeonholes and small cases that stand on shelves, 25 cm., or the same as the shelf, is the standard height. For taller cases the height of two or three shelves is taken, when the thickness of the shelf removed may he added. As to length of shelves to hold cases, the 75-centimeter shelf, which is best for mere storage of books, is much less convenient as a common multiple of the' boxes most used for standard size than is 93 cm., or 36f inches. It is wise, therefore, to use the 93-centimeter shelf instead of the 75-centimeter in the librarian's room, near the loan desk, and in corners and other places where desks are apt to be placed, or for other reasons where these conveniences may be in demand. — M. D. THE world's library CONGRESS. 741 For extreme cases and large constituencies, articles of tlie kind must be specially designed.' CARPETS. Best quality tile or inlaid linoleum (a sort of semicork article firmly pressed together), in which the figure of the pattern is carried through the entire thickness of the fabric, is probably the one most durable floor covering to be had at moderate cost. It is tolerably noiseless and when properly laid stands long wear and continual cleaning with- out becoming uuduly shabby. "Corticine" and other names describe a kindred article ; but under either name, figured patterns show dust less than solid colors. The lighter the tint, also, the more pleasing is its effect and the less it shows dirt. Number 1 (or "A"), printed linoleum is a cheaper grade, in which the pattern is on the surface only, and will answer where there is not too much wear. Brussels carpet can be had at no more, or perhaps less, first cost, but wears out sooner, and all carpets are so troublesome as regards dust, moths, etc., besides needing to be frequently taken up and beaten, that it is well to avoid them. Mattings of all kinds are very objectionable except for express use as dirt catchers in passageways and aisles, where they can be frequently removed and cleaned. RBADINGr ROOM PITTINGS. Tables and chairs for readers have been already touched on. Some provision must be made for reading current periodicals. Happily the day has gone by for secluding all such behind counters, to be hauded out only on individual call, one by one. An exception, however, may possibly be necessary in some larger cities owing to mixed population and the influx of a floating and tramp element. Otherwise the. several' monthlies and weeklies kept on file may be put in suitable binders, or temporary covers, and displayed either in racks or on tables having partitioned intervals or compartment tops ; or else in bins or pigeon- holes in numbered or labeled cases. Such methods work well and must be determined by the room at command and the constituency to be served. For newspapers, if such are supplied for reading, still different treat- ment may be needed. For display on wall racks, to be read in place only, there is demanded a disproportionately large standing or sitting ' After much unsatisfactory experimenting we found a cheap device called the "Midget" best. It consists of two rings 3.5 cm. in diameter attached to a metal base, screwed on the baseboard or any piece of furniture. It could be attached to a chair leg. A little drip cup 4 by 5 cm. and 4 cm. deep hooks on this so that this tiny attach- ment, which is hardly noticed when not in use, holds two umbrellas out from the wall or furniture, the ring 11 cm. above the cup holding the umbrella in position. It may also be used for canes. Its chief merit is that it takes no room. 742 EDUCATION EEPOET, 1892-93, area. If in hand flies they soon grow inconvenient and unsightly; and if in pigeon holes or on call only, they require much care and attention or else disappear too early. There is doxibt whether the function of a public library is more than to obtain and carefully file away for perma- nent binding all local papers, without maintaining the average public newspaper reading room in this age of overwhelming numbers of cheap publications of that kind and the lack of much, if any, benefit to their readers. SPECIAL APPLIANCES. Bulletin boards. — Almost every library finds desirable a bulletin board or placeJbr notices. Many make quite a feature of posting lists of new books, query lists, and special reading notes, etc. Considerable ingenuity may be exercised in such matters from the simple slate or blackboard, or tack-sheets of paper, up to an equipment of clips and grooved slats in which slips or cards can be placed and removed as desired. Pamphlet boxes. — Preservation of and ready access to pamphlets has likewise made demand for special accommodations akin to those given books. Various styles of boxes and wrappers have been tried, and satisfaction with any one kind, if attained, has depended much on the disposition of the individual user. Where expense and lack of space do not stand in the way it is probable that most pleasing results are had by means of file boxes or drawers, each fitted with a "follower" or "compressor," as in the well-known Woodruff and other document files, but made of larger sizes for library purposes. Eor dictionaries, atlases, and like bulky works, liberal provision of special holders and revolving cases prove both an economy to th« library and an aid to users. Indicators. — Our English and Canadian conferees find more or less use for the indicator, and deem it a praiseworthy adjunct to an active circulation. Though occasionally tried in the United States our people do not iisually take kindly to the indicator on either side the delivery counter. To most libraries, therefore, the term conveys but a vague idea of a machine about which few know and which fewer care to use. The space necessarily occupied by an indicator is probably one of the greatest drawbacks to its use, if its first cost and expense of operation might otherwise be afforded. Book trucks. — Some form of book truck is one of the most indis- pensable equipments of a modern library, and much true economy will result from an ample supi)ly, even if the first cost seems large. Made to meet a limited demand and not in quantities, the usual price is not unreasonable, and represents more actual cost and less profit than more- widely used goods. Catalogue cases. — As to catalogue cases and kindred fittings, wherein we now have a tolerable uniformity, the rule that "the best is THE world's library CONGRESS. 743 tlie cheapest" holds true iu nearly all particulars. To find the best of those BOW made is fortunately not difBcult, and in procuring such the buyer also obtains the result of an aggregate amount of contributed library experience not measured by dollars and cents. Much more might doubtless be said on all the foregoing topics and on many which have been unnamed. Such treatment, however,, is more in the province of an exhaustive library manual, and needs to be accompanied by numerous illustrations, which speak better than words. GOVEENMENT, CONSTITUTION, BT-LAWS, AND TRUSTEES. By H. M. Utley, Public Librarian, Detroit. [Facts in tlis four footnotes of this article are from comparative library exhibit statistics collected by ITew York State library.] Character and mode of maintenance modify details of library govern- ment. Those commonly known as public libraries are usually governed by trustees. BOARDS OF TRUSTEES. HoTW constituted. — The number of trustees usually varies from 3 to 9.^ In a few instances there are more, but this increase is usually because other interests are to be represented, such as an individual founder or some consolidated corporation. In executive management a small board is most efftcient. An odd number of trustees is advisable to avoid possibility of deadlock on any question. The municipal cor- poration is usually represented on the board by the mayor or j)resident of the board of education, and sometimes by the superintendent of schools also, in order to bring the library into closer touch with the schools. Women are sometimes chosen and prove well fitted for the work. How chosen. — In most .cases election is by the city council. Some- times this is on nomination of the mayor and sometimes without such nomination. Election is often by popular vote at annual school or municipal elections. In a few cases the matter is in the hands of the board of education, who select trustees outside their own body. This happens where school libraries have become public libraries. The common practice of choice by city council or by people accords with the idea of local self-government and is satisfactory.^ Term of office. — The trustees are usually divided into groups, one group retiring each year. The most common term is three years. A 'Of 63 representative libraries reporting, 18 have 9 trustees; 11 have 6; 9 have 5. Small boards are generally the best 'working bodies. ^Of 64 libraries reporting, trustees of 37 are appointed by mayor, by common council, or by mayor, and council; trustees of 16 are elected by the people. One library reports a self-perpetuating board. The tendency in Western States is for common council to appoint directly or on mayor's nomination. 744 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. board of 6 or 9 elected members, 2 or 3 respectively, retiring annually, is most popular. In practice there is more diversity in length of term than in other respects. There are some advantages in a long term if the incumbent is a desirable one. Experience and familiarity with the working and needs of the institution are useful here as elsewhere. But if the term is short, a valuable member may be reelected and kept in the board, while a listless or too officious member may be succeeded by some better person.^ Officers. — Treasurer: If the city treasurer is ex officio treasurer of the library fund, the tax for supporting the library is protected by his official bond, and is conveniently drawn on from time to time as needed. This is considered the better practice, though sometimes the board elects its own treasurer and he draws from the city in a lump sum whatever appropriation has been made for the purpose. Secretary : The duties of the secretary are usually signing warrants on the treasurer, keeping an account of the finances, and recording the proceedings of the board. The annual financial statement is made by him rather than the city treasurer. He is also the buying agent. In a large library this work must necessarily consume much time. Whether a person shall be specially employed or whether the duties shall be performed by a trustee or by the librarian must, therefore, depend on circumstances. Librarian : The librarian should not be a member of the board. He is sometimes secretary, though opinion is divided as to whether this is best. He should attend regular board meetings for consultation regarding the affairs of the library and to give his advice on any con- templated action. The term of office varies from one to three years. In some instances the term of all appointees is indeterminate, and the argument in favor is that by producing a feeling of security in tenure of office among employees more earnest and enthusiastic work is secured, while the board may drop an unsatisfactory employee at any time. If the librarian is simply custodian of the books, no bond should be required of him. But if he is superintendent, executive officer of the board, has the management of its business affairs and handles much money, he should be treated like other persons employed in a similar capacity. In fact, instances are rare in which the librarian gives a bond. He is usually intrusted with at least a small sum of money to pay certain petty bills, such as expressage, postage, etc., and renders an account monthly of his payments, of money collected in the library from sale of catalogs, fines, etc. The treasurer's receipt of the sum accounted for should be attached to the report. ' Thirty-three out of 61 libraries report a three-year term ; 7 a two-year, 6 a four- yoar, 6 a five-year, 2 a six-year, 3 a seven-year, and 1 a life term. THE world's library CONGRESS. 745 BY-LAWS. Library boards are bodies corporate, hold the property and funds of the library in their own name, and have exclusive control of them. They make to the municipality an annual report, which must show the amount of money received from all sources and the purposes for which it has been expended, the number of books bought during the year, the number in the library, the extent of their use, and other facts of general interest tending to exhibit the proper discharge of the trust. These reports are published for public information. Trustees annually choose the usual list of ofScers from their own members. Standing committees are those on books, on administration, on reading room, on buildings and grounds, and on finance. Eegular meetings are usually held once a month, but sometimes oftener and sometimes bimonthly. These meetings are open to the public, and the newspapers may publish proceedings of general interest. Accounts against the board are first passed on by the proper committee, who indorse their approval to the board, which orders a warrant on the treasurer in payment. , The committee on books' has general supervision of buying books, but the librarian must look after details. The committee outlines the policy of the library, fixes the sum to be spent, and considers special purchases, but is not supposed to give attention to ordinary current literature. The committee on administration recommends appointments, promo- tions, and discharges, and salaries of the library staff^— presumably on consultation with the librarian — and final action on all these matters rests with the board. Civil-service rules are as important here as in any branch of the public service, if not more so. A system of compet- itive examination of applicants for library employment is prescribed in some libraries and is coming into vogue, to the manifest improvement in quality of library assistants. PUBLIC SCHOOL LIBRAEIBS. These are under control of the board of education. In some cases, ■ usually in smaller towns, though originally established for the schools, they have become practically public libraries and are still managed by the board of education, which has a committee of three or five charged with their special oversight. The committee has no authority to take final action, but appointments of librarian and other employees and expenditures of money. are made by the board itself. As the library grows and its management becomes more complicated, this method of government is found cumbersome and lacking in practical efaciency. In such cases the organization of a library commission with full powers of control is the usual practice. 746 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. COLLEGE AND PROPKIETAUY LIBRARIES. College libraries are controlled by the trustees of the college, gener- ally -with a library cominittee in special charge. Proprietary libraries are managed by trustees selected by the proprietors. Special libraries, such as law and medical, are similar in their management to proprie- tary libraries. Trusts established by private benefaction are governed by the peculiar provisions in each, and no general rules are applicable. STATE LIBRARIES. Ill a few instances State libraries are managed by trustees ; in most cases the governor appoints the librarian. There is a library committee in each house of the legislature which considers matters of proposed legislation relating to the library and specially with regard to appro- priations for it, but has no power or authority in intervals, between sessions. The librarian is in control in all departments, appoints his own subordinates, makes his own purchases, subject only to the law governing each case. The criticism on the gubernatorial appointment system is that the tenure of offlce is too uncertain. Such appointments may be controlled to a greater or less extent by political considerations, and a governor seldom continues in ofSce longer than two or three years. An inexperienced librarian and a new staff could not be expected to accomplish very much in a short term, and even if good work were done it might be quickly undone by a successor with differ- ent ideas. Where the method of governing by trustees, organized somewhat as are those of public libraries, has been tried it has been found to work satisfactorily. Other plans tried or suggested contem- plate the appointment of the librarian by the legislature or by the supreme court of the State. Whatever tends to remove the library in all its management apd operations as far as possible from partisan politics Is to its advantage. This is true of all classes of libraries, not alone of those owned by States. Instances are rare in which this disturbing element has shown itself in city libraries. The remedy in such cases lies in electing as trustees men entirely above petty considerations.' Entangling alli- ances with religious denominations are to be avoided no less than with political parties. Bigotry and intolerance may be shown quite as offen- sively in one as in the other. In another respect also care should be exercised in selecting men for library boards. It is not every " good fellow " who would make a good trustee. Other qualifications being assumed, he should be a person of good sound sense, good temper, a capacity and a willingness to work. The trustee who gives no attention to the business of his board is ' Of 58 libraries reporting, 44 say positively that politics has no influence whatever, 7 say that it has, and 7 say that it has to some extent. All agree tliat the hauo of public library management is partisan politics. THE world's library CONGRESS. 747 second only in unfitness to the one who wants to manage the whole thing himself and in his own way. Library Service. By Frank P. Hill, Librarian Free Public Library, Newark, N. J. This paper is based on answers to the following questions from 118 out of 210 libraries written to. From other sources partial information was obtained concerning 111 other libraries. These libraries represent all kinds and conditions; from the village library of 1,000 volumes with a yearly circulation of a few thousand to that of the Chicago public library with its yearly circulation of 2,094,091, and embrace free public, subscription, college, State, historical, refer- ence, and special libraries. The letter contained the following inquiries : Name. Address. Number of volumes in library. Circulation. Librarian : How appointed. Term of office. Salary. Select books. Appoint assistants. Fix staff salaries. Purchase supplies. Make regulations. Decide methods of classification, cataloging, and distribution. General supervision. Specific duties. Hours of daily service. Vacation. Holidays. First year attended American Library Association meeting. Sent to American Library Association meeting at expense of library, or is time allowed, oi both, or neither. Staff: How appointed. Examinations. Total number employed. List of titles, with number employed in each department and average salary. (If confidential, please so state it and the facts will not be made public.) Changes in titles recommended. Extra help paid by the hour or by the day. Staff divided into departments, i. e., cataloging, registration, delivery, reference, bureau of information, slip-rack, reading room, bindery. Meetings for consultation and improvement. Lea>ra work in ail departments or only in one. Graduated scale of pay, i. e., so much first three mouths, and so on. Vacation. 748 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. Staff — Continued. Holidays. Allo-sred any time on account of illness without loss of pay. Allowed to make up time lost in other ways. Hours of labor. Catalogers work shorter time than other members of the staff. Delivery clerks have time to do work other than at the delivery desk. Employ boy's or girls for runners. Send library messenger for lost ijooks, or is such work done by the police department. Separate room for catalogers. If cataloging is done in the delivery room, please state if the noise and confusion disturb the catalogers. Any printed rules for the staff. How many are members of the American Library Association. Many interesting facts are gleaned from the reports received. All important details will be found in the table. CHIEF LIBRARIAN. It is not within the province of this article to name the qualifications necessary to a good librarian, but rather touching all points, to show the present condition of library service. Selection. — Success or failure of a library, as of a busiuess, depends on the ability-of the man or woman at its head. Only trained men and women should be in charge. The days of local feeling in the selection of librarian and assistants are fast passing away, and cities or towns that compel trustees to engage local talent, regardless of merit, are the exception rather than the rule. In fact, to-day the demand for good librarians is beyond the supply. The librarian should be a gentleman, a scholar, and a good executive. "The true librarian," as Mr.Crunden says, " keeps always in advance of his community and constantly educates it to make greater demands upon him." Politics should not be permitted to afiect the appointment of trus- tees, librarians, or assistants; and, except most State libraries and a few city libraries controlled by commou councils, there is little to com- plain of on this score. Women. — Women have taken a high rank in the profession, not only as catalogers and assistants, but as chief librarians. Of the 508 indi- vidual members of the American Library Association 237 are women, and of this number 93 are at the head of libraries. Only 125 libraries represented in the American Library Association have men as chief librarians. Term of office. — This is usually during good behavior, though 52 librarians report yearly elections. It is manifestly in the interests of the institution that no definite time be mentioned, as it leaves the incam- THE world's library CONGRESS. 749 bent free to go 01 Avitli his good work without interference — provided always that he retain the esteem and confidence of his superiors. Long term contracts are irksome alike to trustees and librarian. If a definite term is fixed pressure is brought to bear by those ready to take the place at its expiration. Good behavior and good work should form the only basis for continuance in of&ce. ^Duties. — The librarian as the responsible head of the institution should be consulted in all matters relating to its management and efft- ciency and as to plans for new buildings. The most satisfactory results are obtained in those libraries where the chief librarian is permitted to aj)point assistants, select books, buy supplies, make regulations, decide methods of cataloging, classifying, and lending, subject of course to the approval of the trustees. lu 68 libraries such resiJonsibility is placed virtually on the librarian; while only 16 rejjort that the whole matter is in charge pf committees, the librarian being merely their mouthpiece. To do this work calls for a man of parts. He must have a wide acquaintance with books and literature, and show good judgment in selecting his staff. In a word, he must be capable of managing the business as well as the literary side of the library. The question of making the librarian secretary of theboard of trustees is perhaps a delicate one. Against the proposal it is urged: (1) That such duties entail additional labor on the librarian ; (2) that trustees feel freer to discuss the librarian and his management when he is absent. In answer it may be said : 1. That the additional labor is very slight, for in many libraries where the secretary is a trustee the records are written up by some one con- nected with the library. 2. That whenever necessary to discuss the methods of the librarian and his staff', he could be requested to withdraw. All concede that the librarian should be present at board meetings for consultation and advice, and that no important action should be taken without first consulting him. The tendency certainly is toward making him secretary of the board. All libraries in ISTew Jersey estab- lished under the law of 1884 are obliged to do this. The plan is a good one, for as secretary the librarian keeps the minutes, audits bills, and attends to everything pertaining to the office. He is thus brought into closer relations with the trustees, and it gives both an opportunity to study the library's needs more carefully than in any other way. Such is the verdict of those who have tried both methods. Hours of service. — The average daily service appears to be about eight hours. This average is obtained by including a few librarians who report only five hours' service and quite a number whose time extends to ten hours per day. 750 EDUCATIOTlir EEPORT, 1892-93. No account is taken of library work done outside olifice hours. Should this be considered, it would be found that every librarian having the interests of his institution at heart puts nearly all his waking hours into the work. One of the most important duties is to attend the annua.1 gathering of the American Library Association. Many a young librarian has here first imbibed that enthusiasm which has enabled him to battle with doubt and come out victor. Some 34 libraries regularly send representatives at the expense and on the time of the library; 12 libraries report that time but not money is allowed. It may truthfully be said that the money spent by a library in paying its librarian's expenses for attending these conferences is an invest- ment giving the greatest possible interest. Its value can not be com- puted in dollars and cents. Vacation. — This is as welcome and as necessary to the librarian as to the school principal. Some librarians are obliged to take their vaca- tion at the time of the American Library Association meeting. This is not recommended. Anyone who has attended an American Library Association conference knows that means simply a repetition of library work wonderfully intensified. There is little or no rest for the enthusi- astic individual at these gatherings, because he is bound to get all new ideas and all possible information from his brethren. The. only satis- factory vacation is to drop all thought of the library and hie away to some quiet spot ofl'ering rest and change of scene. A few days of such exemption from library cares and worry benefit alike trustees, public, staff, and librarian. To the librarian is usually given a little more time tlian to the as- sistants. In i)ublic libraries four weeks is a fair allowance ; in college libraries vacations correspond with the regular college vacations — about three months. Where libraries are open Sundays and holidays the librarian is not usually in attendance, but the assistant in charge receives double pay fot such services. STAFF. Requisites. — At the Bound Island American Library Association meeting in 1887 Mr. James Yates, of Leeds, England,, laid great stress on the necessity of giving the chief librarian full control over his staff, illustrating his point by taking an ordinary workshop where "the employer is bound in his own interests to see that his employees are provided with true and good work tools, and that when they flinch they must be replaced." Peter Cowell, chief librarian of the Liverpool public libraries, in his pamphlet on public library staffs, says : It is an absolute necessity that the staff sliould be oliar^oterized by ability, energy, and appreciation of their duties, for otherwise a lack of vitality would soon be appar- THE world's library CONGRESS. .751 ent in the library, and a corresponding deficiency in ita usefulness and popularity. When the staff of a library is imbued with a common spirit, and that spirit is iden- tified with the true aims and purposes of a public- library, it follows that such a library will soon be engaged in a great and important educational work, and in exercising a wide and beneficial influence. Harmony, then, as well as fitness, plays an important part in the success of a library. It is unfortunately true that where many women are gathered together — for pleasure or business — there you will find cliques and jealousies. Particularly is this true in a library Avhere wages are paid according to the duties performed. The catalogers and reference librarians are paid better than the delivery clerks and copyists. What might be called "class fi-iend- ships " are formed, wherein those of a higher grade look down on those of a lower, and, as sometimes occurs, do not want to associate with or do the work of the other. If allowed to remain such a spirit ' breeds continual dissension. Pluck it out at once, even at the cost of hard feeling. When self is cast aside and all are working for the com- mon good the result is pleasing alike to the public, the trustees, and the staff. The members of the staff should keep in touch with each other as well as with all departments of the library. Good feelings produce good results. It is an excellent idea to bring the staff together (outside of library hours) to discuss library matters ; and better still to meet socially on an occasional winter evening. Mr. Whitney says " a library may be compared to a watch, each part in which depends on the proper action of the other, and where poor Avork in the least member affects the whole." Great care then is necessary in the selec- tion of the individual members. Appointment. — Of 229 libraries reporting, only 17 state that ap- pointments are made on the result of written exiuninations, but the consensus of opinion at the Chicago meeting decidedly favored such examinations. A preliminary examination serves two purposes: 1. It enables the committee to ascertain the acquirements of the candidate. 2. It does away with all political influence. A candidate and his friends, finding that an examination is neces- sary before appointment will be made, hunt for some more congenial employment. It certainly eliminates undesirable aspirants and leaves trustees free from outside influence. Such examination need not be severe. Grammar, history, and liter- ature should be included, special attention being paid to writing and spelling. It does not follow that because one has obtained the required percentage he will make a good assistant; ou the other hand, in my own library, for instance, it sometimes happens that an individual who has barely passed proves the best adapted to the particular work re- quired. The written examination should be followed by "trial work" in the practical details of the library, after which a selection can be wisely made. 752 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. It is much easier to get a person on than to get one off the staff. At the Buffalo conference, in 1883, the following resolutions were adopted : Besolred, That efficiency in library administration can best be obtained through the applications of the cardinal principles of an enlightened civil s-rvice, viz, the absoliite exclusion of all political and personal influence ; appointment for definitely ascertained fitness ; promotion for merit, and retention during good behavior; and Resolved, That, in the opinion of this association, In large public libraries, subor- dinate employees should, so far as possible, be selected by competitive examinatioB, followed by a probationary term. When competent service can be secured for subordinate positions, preference should be given to local applicants. As between local influence and competent service no bar should hinder the selection of the person best qualified for the work. The establishment of the library school at Albany and of training classes' at Pratt Institute, Brooklyn, and Drexel Institute, Philadel- phia, makes it possible to procure the best material at a fair price. There is no longer excuse for securing incompetent service. Titles. — Beyond that of '' first assistant " it is not safe to recom- mend titles for the various heads of departments. No list that could be prepared would suit the different kinds of librarians or even the dif- ferent sections of the country; therefore, each library must regulate the matter to suit local demands.^ Departments. — To a limited extent all libraries are divided into departments, but it does not* follow that each department has a sepa- rate head. In small libraries the force should learn work in all departments; and even in many large libraries it is better for members of the stali to change work occasionally, i. e., the catalogers work certain hours in the day at cataloging and then change to delivery work, etc. Six- teen libraries report that it is customary for the staff to learn the work of only one department, except in cases of promotion. It is better that assistants should understand all departments of the library, in order that satisfactory promotions may be made. It was the general opinion at the Chicago conference that better work would be accomplished by catalogers if a separate room were pro- vided. The library proper is no place for such a department, for the noise and confusion at the delivery desk distract the mind. For the best cataloging, quiet and seclusion are prime requisites. 'October 1, 1893, at the Armour Institute, Chicago, a third class veas opened, in charge, like both the others, of a graduate of the library school. — M. D. ''Americans are beginning to use the better form, common in England, of "public librarian "• instead of "librarian of the public library of," and "of sublibrarian," "subcataloger," "classifier," etc., instead of the longer " assistant librarian," "assis- tant cataloger." etc. "Clerk in charge of the shelf-list department," and similar infelicitous titles, are giving -way to short descriptive titles like " shelf-lister," "accession clerk," "loan clerk," "indexer," "reference librarian." Also "page" is better than ' THE world's library CONGRESS. 7.5$ Girls 14' to IG years of age do better work as ruuners than boys, aad are more easily managed. When possible the police department should be utilized in recover- ing books from persistent delinquents. Only a few of the larger libraries employ a special messenger for this purpose. Daily service — Eeturns show a reduction within a few years in the average library day from 8J to 7| hours. It would be interesting t» know if the reduction has resulted in better work. With others I am inclined to believe so, but the claim can not bo proved. In two libra- ries, catalogers work longer than employees in other departments. There seems to be no good reason Avhy this should be so; as a matter of fact, cataloging is not only more trying and more worrisome, but it requires better meintal caliber than does the delivery desk. By a vote of 4 to 1 the association decided that owing to the nature of their work catalogers ought to have shorter rather than longer hours. Generally speaking, the smaller the library the longer the hours of service.* Vacation. — A fair average for vacation is about three weeks, and to this is added (by a very few libraries) an extra ten days during the winter — a boon appreciated by the favored ones. Some large libraries also allow absence not exceeding twenty days during the year for illness. Most boards of trustees, however, do not deduct from pay for absence on account of illness.^ Time record. — In large libraries some check is necessary to prevent tardiness. As at school some pupils are pretty certain to be late unless punishment is meted out, so among library employees the same fault occurs unless means are taken to prevent it. A simple and effective method is to provide a book of loosely-bound sheets, each sheet headed with the name of an employee, who records ' This is because the small library usually starts witb false notions of the work. The larger libraries have gained experience iivhich teaches that better results can b» attained by adopting, not a meclianioal system, but hours suitable to individual work. This average of seven and a half is found by including many libraries that still exact unreasonable hours. It will donbtloss grow still smaller as the lessons of experience are more carefully studied. — M. D. ^A theory justifying this payment for services not rendered is that, rather than have lost time deducted, some employees will come to the library when their health and future best work require them to be at home or in bed. But, on the other hand, it is well known that, oftener, if as much salary will be drawn by staying at home, many will skip days when they might better bo on duty. Absolute fairness requires that those who do not exhaust their allowance for illness during the year may add the time to the annual vacation, and this resolves itself into the direct businesslike method of giving a, liberal allowance, say six weeks (or half the teacher's usual vacation) for vacation and illness, and deducting for any absence for whatever cause beyond this. However much the librarian may sympathize with a deserving assistant in poor health, he has no right to dispense the taxpayers' money in charity, however worthily bestowed. — M. D. • ED 93 48 754 EDUCATION KEPOET, 1892-93. in ink the time of arrival and departure; and at the end of the year the book holds a truthful record of attendance. I say truthful, because I believe that if each member of the staff is placed on honor, and allowed to make his own entry, rather than report to some superior, there will be no intentional errors.' Salaries.^ — " The laborer is worthy of his hire." The following reso- lution, adopted by the American Library Association at its meeting in Chicago, represents the ideal rather than the real condition of libra- rians and assistants : Resolved, That in tlie opinioa of tlie American Library Association the qualifica- tions and salaries of library assistants in important positions should be on a par ■with high school teachers; that applicants for positions in libraries should have at least a high school education ; and that tho heads of large libraries should have sal- aries not less than those of i^nblic school superintendents in tho same cities. Usually, salaries are much lower than those of teachers and school principals, and with no apparent reason for the difference, unless it be the successful efforts of some librarians to conceal their salary lists. In a table such as that appended to this report it is impossible to include a complete list of employees; therefore the amounts received by the librarian and first assistant only are given. The effect of such publicity ought to be beneficial to the profession, encouraging those on low salaries to ask their trustees for increase, and enabling trustees, without fear of criticism, to make such a fair increase as will place their institutions on a level with others in more favored localities. There need be no fear that a board, on finding that it is paying higher salaries than those in another city of corresponding size and wealth, will attempt to cut down salaries, for it is easier to have salaries increased than decreased. As each community has its own local con- ditions it is not possible to lay down a hard and fast rule for salaries. From 170 reports we find the average yearly salary $1,364 for chief librarians; $642 for first assistants, and $375 for general assistants. These averages are low, but the tendency is upward. Payment by the hour is resorted to by a few libraries, but the prac- tice is not recommended, as it has proved impossible to arrange a satis- factory schedule; though substitutes are engaged by the hour. For Sunday and holiday work it is customary to allow double pay. 'The best method of recording time, now coming into 'Vfidouse is by an attachment to a clock by ■which the exact rainuto of coming and going is recorded mechanically. It is much quieter and cheaper, but its great advantage is in eliminating all ques- tion of personal accuracy in the record made by an assistant or a recording clerk. ''See full discussion in A. L. A. proceedings, 1893, pp. 34-37, 41-42. THE WOELd's library CONGRESS.. 755 SUMMAEY. (1) Politics should not enter into the appointment of ^trustees, libra- rians, or assistants. (2) Only trained men and women should be placed at the head of libraries. (3) The better the material selected, the more satisfactory will be the administration of the institution. (4) In cities and towns where he is held responsible for the conduct of the library, the librarian should have the appointment of all assist- ants and other employees. (5) Term of oiflce should be during good behavior. (6) Every library should be a member of the American Library Asso- ciation, and should be represented at all its meetings. (7) Catalogers should have shorter hours than other library workers, and should have a separate room. (8) Applicants for library positions should have at least a high school education. (9) Applicants should bo required to pass written examinations before being appointed. (10) Assistants should learn to do work in all departments. (11) Seven to eight hours constitute a good day's work. (12) Library assistants should have four weeks' vacation during the year. (13) Qualifications and salaries of library assistants in im]>ortant positions should be on a par with high school teachers. (14) Heads of large libraries should have salaries not less than those of i:)ublio school superintendents in the same cities. (15) Library salaries ought to be published. 756 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93, Place. Kame of library. a I" ■a Akron, Ohio - Do Albany, N.Y Allegheny, Pa Amherst, Mass Andover, Mass Ann Arbor, Mich.. Appleton, Wis Arfington, Mass . . . Auburn, j>J. Y Augusta, Me Aurora, N. Y Ay er. Mass Baltimore, Md Do Do Do Bangor, Me BataTia,N. Y Bay City, Mich Berkeley, Cal Beverly, Mass Eloomington, Ind.. Boston, Mass ■ Do Do Boulder, Colo Braddock, Pa Bridgeport, Conn.. Bristol, E.I Brockton, Mass Brookline, Mass . . . Brooklyn, N. Y.... Do -.-. Do Brunswick, Me Bryn Mawr, Pa Buffalo, N. Y Do Burlington, Yt Do Butte City, Mont.. Cambridge, Mass.. Do Charlottesville, Vav Chelsea, Mass Chicago, III Do Do Cincinnati, Ohio... Do Cleveland, Ohio Do Clint«n,Mas8 Clinton, N. Y Columbus, Ohio Concord, N. H Danville, Pa Dayton, Ohio Dedham, Mass Denver, Colo Do Detroit, Mich Dover, N. H Dubuque, Iowa I)uluth, Minn Easthampton, Mass Bierce' Public ; New York State Carnegie free Amherst College Andover 'Iheological Seminary. University of Michigan Lawrence University Kobbins Seymour Maine State Wells College Public City Enoch Pratt free Mercantile Peabody Institute Public Union school Public University of California Public Indiana University Atheneeum Institute of Technology Public Buckingham Carnegie free Public Eogers free Public do Brooklyn Pratt Institute Y.M.C. A Bowdoin College Bryn Mawr College Buttalo Grosvenor public Fletcher free University of Vermont Butte free public Harvard University Public University of Virginia Eitz public Newberry Public University of Chicago Public Young Men's Mercantile Case Public Bigelow free public Hamilton College Public ...do Thomas Beaver free E.... E.... F.... S .... F.... F.-... F.... F.... F.... S .... F.... F.&S, E.... E.... F F . . . . S S F F.... F F E F.... F . . . . E Cul G,524 Gen 11, 200 Gen 157, Hi Gen 22, 232 Col 59,000 Theol.... 48, 763 Col 77, 705 Col 12,038 Gen 12, 183 Gcu 11, 285 State .... 40, 000 Col 3,070 Gen 5,511 Gen 23, 641 Gen 122, 773 Mer 40, 000 Gen 112, 000 Gen 33,487 Sch 10, 000 Gen 13, 918 Col 48, 287 Geu 13, 347 Col 14, 684 Gen 177,000 Sci 22,788 Gen 576, 237 Col 7,900 (ien Gen 22, 785 Gen 11,046 Geu 17, 861 Gon 39, 007 Gen 117, 669 Gen 40, 000 Y.M.C. A 12, 000 Col 50, 000 Col 9,760 Gen 70, 483 Gen 35, 000 Gen 25, 000 Col 43,374 Gen 16, 000 Col 292, 000 Gen 36, 643 Col 45, 000 Gen 13, 619 Gen 79, 000 Geu 189, 360 Col 3S0, 000 Gen 150, 673 Mer 60, 000 Gen 30, 000 Gen 72, 078 Gen 18, 463 Col 35, 000 Gen 14, 064 Gen 18, 500 Gen 8.523 Gen 32, 288 Gen 11, 384 Mer 23, 351 Gen 14, 000 Gen 115, 661 Gen 17, 000 Gen 14, 618 Gen 10, 253 Gen 9,305 Public do E City F Public E do F. do F. YoungMen'sLibrary Association. S . Public F Public Library Association F . ■Of Buchtftl College. >i All assistants $9 per week. 'ilo regular time. 12 Salary as instructor. "During eflacienoy and good behavior. "Not fixed; without pay. •Good behavior. "Not given. "Indefinite. "From $600 ayear to $2.50 a week. ^Pleasure of board. >« $7 to $15 per week. 'Average. «' 18 cents an hour. «No books circulated. >» Pleasure of trustees. »No home circulation. " Besides salary as professor. '"High school graduates preferred. • 27, 702 27,702 94,640 104, 807 4,512 0,129 9,509 11, S" 5,629 25,887 10, 621 3,266 2,148 433, 547 433, 647 433, 647 433,647 19, 090 7,200 27,836 5,101 10, 795 22,242 446, 607 446,507 446, 507 3,330 8,661 48,866 5,478 27,278 12,076 804, 377 804,377 804,377 6,012 254,467 254,467 14,666 14, 666 10,701 69,837 69,837 6,691 27, 850 1,098,576 1, 098, 576 1, 098, 676 2.46, 309 S96, 309 261, 546 261,546 10, 379 1,760 90,398 16, 948 9,073 58, 868 7,116 106,670 106, 670 205, 669 12, 779 30, 147 32,725 THE world's library CONGRESS. 757 6 u a 3 o H d b H .pi a F t. t> § 1. Salaries of otter assistants. 11 R $10, 000 3,300 37, 900 15, 000 545 41, 429 7,186 108, 679 8,000 3,900 3,100 3,601 33, 893 16, 160 5,000 '$300 720 5,000 2,500 2,500 1,800 2,700 '"500 800 1,000 Trs. 1 1 m {') "1 1 3 8 7 7-8 7 7' Ool.- Im.. 30d.. 2w.. Im.. Sem. 2m.. 2 1 27 8 1 3 9 1 7 6 8 7 8 7 """"y" Col.- im.. 30 d $240 510 $120.00 So. No. 315. 00-2, OOO.flO 480. 00 Tea. 2w.. Im.. Sem. 2m.. 720 800 900 1,200 No. No.. raid by hour. 125.00-900.00 4,841- 1,800 .3, 8 Im.. Im 3 None (iC) (2«) No. Np. 3 8 060 350. 00-480. 00 No. No 9,516 (») 452, 733 76, 000 (') 41, 576 27,241 39,914 28, 743 . 7, 825 55, 000 1 13, 000 1,715,860 3,150 150 1,500 Oonf. 720 3,000 500 490 720 2,400 070 1,000 3,500 (") '""960' 2,500 (") "'756' 1,500 3,000 1,500 1,600 2,000 900 Conf. 2 (=) w 1 1 1 (=) « 1 1 1 '\ 1* 8 9 8 8i • ? 8 5 7 7-8 7 None 2 w.. Im.. 2w.. Im.. 3w.. None 3tf.. 3w.. Im.. Col.. Im.. 1 2 64 1 9 3 1 2 2 3 7 22 2 'li 6 8 3 8' 8i "5* 8 5 7 7-8 7 None 2w.. 2w.. 2m.. 2w.. SO 900 m 180 No. 7, goo 50, ODD 720.00 (21) No. No. No, No. J 6,400 3-w.. None 3w.~ 3w.. Im.. C0I-- 2w.. (,3) (21) 400 300 1,200 150 6C0 (23) (") (") No." No. 3,000 11, 360 2,300 2,000 32, 822 Notflxed 170, 000 96.00 1, 000. 00 (22) 230,00 (28) (") No. No.. No. No. No. No. 6 1* 9 10 8 12 7 5 TJndef. 2w.. 2w.. None 3w.. 3w.. 3w.. 2m.. 4w.. Im.. 6w.. Undet 3 7 1 3 3 14 17 3 5 1 6 2 2 3 3 32 7 8 8 ^* i5* 74 12 8 5 9 2w.. 2w.. 800 720 60b.60l486.66 240. 00-480. 00 12, 500 • 119, 329 19, 786 67, 993 83, 007 93, 464 173, 600 . 42,430 8,000 1,020 114; 719 No Ho. 5.800 13, 000 25, 000 1,902 3,000 5,414 5,300 18, 500 3w.. 3w.. 3w.. 2w.. 2w.. Im.. 6w.. 2w.. 450 900 1, 500 1,020 300 600 900 (21) 156. 00-360; 00 540.00 (IS) (16) 180. 00 (17) No. No. No. No. No. No. No. (21) Yes. 3,100 1,000 13, 000 25, 000 14,200 4,200 4,500 Varies. 130, OOO 47, 203 4,170 M 37, 226 Keferencc. 122, 271 3, 761 62, 653 Eeferfence 2, 091, 094 Reference 240, 000 65, 577 60, 000 286, 583 37, 387 1,979 81, 230 83, 219 24, 000 96,200 21, 200 100, 819 144, 000 438, 851 53, 000 • 25, 023 "73,-634 13, 050 800 "500 2,400 4,500 1,200 800 700 ,29) 3,600 "2,"666' 2,000 2,200 800 500 900 1,000 720 900 500 2,000 1,200 2,500 750 500 1,000 By day m 1 lic Public do Stato Iowa State University Public Cornell University Public James Prendergast free Free public Public Lawson MoGkee Memorial Pub He do Town Public do University of Nebraska Stato _ Arkansas State PubUo , City Miudlesex Mechanic's Public Lynn, Mass Madison, N.J Madison, Wis Maiden, Mass Manchester, N. H . . . Modford, Mass Melrose, Mass Middletown, Conn j Wealeyan University Milwaukee, Wis Public MinneaiMjlis, Minn ' ..... do Monmouth, 111 Muskegon, Mich Newark, N. J New Britain, Conn. . Drew Theological Seminary. ^tato Historical Society Public City Public do. New Brunswick, N. J. Newbnrg, N. T .'. . Ne wburyport, Mass New Haven, Conn Do New London, Conn New Orleans, La Newport, K.I Newton, Mass Now York, N. Y Do Warren County Hackley public Free public New Britain Institute Froo circulating Free Public Free public Young Men's Institute Public Howard Memorial ... Kedwood Library and Athenseum. Free Apprentice's Aster F.. F.&S. * Pleasure of board. 2 $1 a day and increase. 3 No limit. ' $500 down to 12i cents iier hour. ^Indefinite. *Not Hxed. &S, &S F.... F.... F.... F.... F . . . . F . . . . F... F... F... F.&6 F .... V .... S .... Gen . Gen Gen .. Gen .. Gen .. State . Gen .. Gen .. Gen .. Gen .. Col Stato... Gen .... Gen Gen Gen State ... Gen Gen Gen State ... Col Gen Col Gen Gen Gen Gen Gen Gen Gen Gen Gen Gen Col State ... State . . . Gen Gen Soo Gen Theol . . . Hist Gen Gen Gen Gen Col Gen Gen Gen Gen Gen Sch Gen Gen Gen Gen Sch Gen Gen Gen Genp.... Soc Gen St" 13,240 Itl, tiOO 1,500 24, COO 3, SOO 15,208 90,000 12,490 10,782 29, 772 4,310 73, 000 98, 000 55,000 38,000 44,399 52,400 4,000 10, 483 13, 600 SI, 694 23,500 27,257 11, 500 111, 007 11, 497 8,756 30,845 18,000 8,137 11,500 11,220 22,464 33, 962 7,066 17, 000 29,000 51, 000 29, 380 47, 650 21, 260 46,294 31, 000 72, 000 21,340 36,068 14, 297 0,729 40,000 64,217 64,000 14,500 16, 194 35, 937 8,000 8,615 18,234 28, 720 20, 967 12,000 9,150 18,965 37,.181 36,910 93, 000 238, 946 'Interest on $25,000. *Not stated. 'Average salary $280. 10 Yaries. '■$420 each. '= $100 per year. "And I bjf the hour. 85,981 13, 759 241, 995 19,449 24, 357 1, 513, 601 "Eight months. '^ CouHdential. *^Not given. "Goodbehavior. '8 Average. "$2a day when employed. THE world's library CONGRESS. 759 84, 52a 17,000 2; 000 4§,918 11,267 40V U3 15, 068 50,885 147, 552 29^000 U H 1,000 2,328 15, 000 ( 10, OOOj Keference. Eefereime. No record. "118,184 Referenee. 68>41fl EeferencB, 8ai480 40, 203 265, 746 Reference. 9,368 11, 000 Reference. 64, 210 45, 360 345, 090 23, 283 lOi 700 39, 019 37,939 12, 338 88, 843 6,127 Reference. KefereiECB-. Reference. 238,863 114,9)5 6,944 113, 168 8,213 Reference. 72, 077 55,874 41, 670 31, 425 7,500 151,597 357,172 17, 000 37, 587 274, 015 22, 74S 9,800 6a,643 33,914 131, 348 15, 000 12,375 2515,000 Be£eireikce 11,282 127, 'Z88 250, 000 Reference. $300 500 150 1,000 312 800 1, 000 C) 1,100 1,200 360 52 2,200 2,500 2,000 1,600 (18) 1,800 1,090 1,500 650 1,800 1,600 1,200 (IS), (.6) 800 1,500 2,500 1,500 900 060 600 350 1,400 83 1,100 (t6) m 1,800 1,600 650 1,500 1,600 1,C00 800 1,000 475 2,500 2,500 3,000 450 (IC) 3,000 750 e 575i i 900' 1, 200 1,000 1,500 (") 900 . 2, 000 m 1, 200- Tra. (') ('> 1 1 (') (=) 2, 1 1 1 (=) 1 4 H S o w 1 (") 2 1 1 2 (') (') w 1 1 (') (')■ 1 1 1 1 (=) 1 (=) 4 (17, « 3 1 (=) («) (■) "5 e) 1 1 C) 1 (17, 1 (') (=) 1 1 m ■ 10 8 3 10 7 8 7 7 (.0, 3-6 4 Ci 10 7 8 10 7 itoie 7 8 7 or 8 9 7 y 61 6' 11 2321 Oor 7 2w.. 2w.. Tfone 2w.. (") 2w.. None 2w 4w.. 4 w 2v.- (°) Col.. None 7 2S38 2w.. 2w. 4w. None 2w.. 2w.. Ini.. Op.. 3m.. None 2m.. None None 4w.. 2-w.. None 2w.. None None 3w.. None C) None 10 7 8S 10 7 Yary. 7 3w.. 2-nr. 3w. Im. Im. 25 d. 2w. (6, 3-w.. 2w.. 3m. 24 d, (=) None Im.. 20 d Im.- 3-w. 2w. 3-w. Im. Im. 5 w. 2-w. 3w. 2-w. Im. S.S S ^ ID 2 8-10 8 7or8 7 8 8 7or8 9 8 9 0* 0" 11 23 21 0or7 ;3 6i 74 9 None 2w-- 4 w Col- Im. a-w. 2-w. 4-n-. 2w, 2w.. aw.. Op 3m.. >va 200 (K, 480 (16, (16) 500 (19) 1.000 1,100 600 None None None 2-w.. 2w.. None 2-w.. None None 3-w.. None (=) None 8 None T 9 8 ik 7 8 Yary t a 8 7 11 2-W-. 2-w.. Im- 25 d. 2w.- None 3-w. 2-w. 3m. 2.L d 2-w- 2-w. 20 d Im.. 400 420 900 000 360 (3) 420 Salaries of other assistants. 600 "loo 1,700 1, 200 800 m 1, 200 500: 375 400 175 27400 800. 900 900 218 2-w D-w.., SOO. 3-W-. 700 Im— Im.. 5>w-.. 2-w.. 3-w.. 2-w.. Im.. 400 (.6) (16) 050 1,300 P) m n (12) (13) $48fli 00 i»404. 00 H^ 420. 00-620. 60 100. 00-250. 00 400. 00-650. oa 720. 00-900. 00 420. 00 180.00-500.00 225. 00-600. 00 («) {") 12.00 18 600.00 »900. 00 180.00-900.00 187. 00-469. 00 200. 00-450'. 00 (10,. "550.00 i»433.75 300. 00 240. 00 240. 00-800. 00 - (28) - <■"•) (31) 40.00 900. 00 (16, ,16, 45O'.OO-5Q0.09 192L 00-900, 00 No. No; No. Tes. Yes. 2»Incon)0 of $50j00O. 21 Not specified. 22Paid by librarian. ssHours'a-week. 2»10| cents an lionr to $420 a year. 2= See answer. 26 Secretary of State is librarian. 2' And room rent. 28 $40 and $45 a month to begin, witli an increase of $6 each year. 25 Prom $900 a year do-wn to 34 cents .i day . 3« I'rom $1 a day to $37.5 a year. 31 10 cents an hour to $480 a year. 32 Superintendent, $4,000: 4 librarians,. $1,200 to $1,800 oivch. 7C0 EDUCATION REPORT, 1692-93. Place. New York, N. T . Do. Do Do Do Do North Adams, Mass . Northampton, Mass . North Easton, Mass . Norwich, Conn Do Oakland, Cat Oak Park, 111 Oherlin, Ohio Olivet, Mich Omahn, Nehr Orono, Me Oxford, Ohio Passaic, N.J Paterson, N. J Pawtuoket, K. I Peokskill, N. T Peoria, 111 Philadolpliia, Pa — Do Do Do Do Do Do Pittsii6ld,Mas3 Plainflelrt, N.J Plymouth, Mass . . . Poughkeepsie, N. Y Princeton, N. J Providence, K. I... Blchmond, Ind Kiyerside, Cal Eochestor, N. T Do Enttand, Vt Sacramento, Cal . . . Do St. Johnshary, Vt. St. Louis, Mo Do St. Paul, Minu , Do Salem, Mass .... Do San Diego, Cal San li'rancisco, Cal . . Schenectady, N. Y. . Scra'ntou, Pa Seattle, Wash Name of library. Columbia College. . . Tree circulating — Mercantile Union Theological. T.M.C. A. T.W.C.A Public do Ames free Otis Iteok Public Scoville Institute. . Oberlin College Olivet College Public State College Miami University. . Public Pree public do Public -do. Academ.v of Natural Sciences . . . Apprentice's Athenisum of Philadelphia.' Drexel Institute I'ranklin Institute Mercantile "Wagner Free Institute Berkshire Athenseum Public ....do City Vassar College College of New Jersey Brown University , Morrison-Eeeves Public University of Rochester lieynolds Free Free public Ctil fornia State St. Johnsbury Athenmum Mercantile Public Minnesota Historical Society Public Essex Institute Public Free public Mechanic's Institute Union College Public City. a'" — " ir tunt...... .... . .1 -.jLuy ity, Iowa ; do Skaneateles, N. Y Skaneateles Library Association. . Somerville, Mass Public Southbridge, Mass do Springfield, 111 do '.'.'.'.'.'. Springfield, Mass City Library Association '. Stockton, Cal Free public Swarthraore, Pa : Swarthmore College Taunton, Mass Public Terre Haute, Ind do o p, s F F F F F F.... F . . . . F.... F F.... F.&S, F F F F F F F F &S. Col Gen Gen Theol . . - Y.M.C.A Gen Gen Gen Gen Gen Sell Gen Sch Col Col Gen Col Col Gen Gen Gen Gen Gou Gen See Soc Sri ... Mer .. Sci ... Gen .. Gen -. Gen . . Gen .. Col... Col... Col... Gen .. Gen . . Col... Gen .. Gen .. Gen . . State . Gen .. Mer .. Gen .. Hist.. Gen . . Sci ... Geu .. Gen . . Gen .. Col... Gen . . Gen.. Gen . . Gen .. Geu .. Gen .. Gen .. Geu .. Gen .. Col... Gen .. Gen .. Si 1l 'A 135, 000 58, OOU 241, 017 68, 633 40, 800 18,006 12, 109 24, 100 13, 400 19, COO 7,824 26, 205 5,750 28, 700 19, 304 38, 471 0,934 10, 800 3.440 17, 932 11,000 0,011 40, 000 33, 175 14, 500 35, 000 37, 183 168. 700 7,500 20, 838 10, 537 10, 000 17, 355 18,000 161, 000 80, 000 17, 000 26, 200 22,744 4,000 21, 000 89, 000 12, 534 83, 071 85, 000 20, 970 30, 274 60, 000 25, 505 0,149 97, 934 37, 300 16, 000 3,000 4,000 7,491 21, 018 14, 807 22, 375 83, 049 15, 598 9,924 36, 087 8,875 ■a 18, 067 14, 961 ie,'i92' 16, 192 i,m 4,370 i39,'626' 2,790 78. 358 27, 502 10,026 40,758 1, 046, 2 ' Sec answer. 2 Not given, 8 Indeilnite. ' From 10 cents an hour to $1,000 a year. * Confidential. ' 20 to 25 cents an hour. '10 cents an hour to $4.56 a year. ' From $5 to $6.50 a week. 17, 262 11,250 7,2 22,8 22,8 3,422 122,042 10,845 4,683 138, 327 138, 327 11,759 26,272 26, 272 6,567 460, 357 460. 357 133, 150 133,156 30,735 30, 736 16, 153 297,990 18, 392 83,450 43,914 37,8" 1,559 40,117 7,744 24, 852 44,164 14, 376 "25,389' 30,287 ^ Good behavior. "Students. " Assistants paid hy hour. 1* Pleasure of board. ^^ Conference. " Not fixed. " No salary. " $5 a week to $50 a month. THE world's library CONGRESS. 761 I o .9 1 o is * r3 O Salaries of other assistants. 'Varies. ($34, 000) \ 28, OOOS 28, 102 4,500 4,600 2,400 5,530 730 18, 127 2,600 4,600 1,700 24, 000 (14, 1,000 1,300 10, 235 6,700 G91 ( 15,000) I 12, 200$ 26, 632 391,570 169, 627 So reoorcl. Keference, 44, 577 63, 758 52, 476 15, 162 76,000 1,506 134,411 26, 031 17,000 Reference. 189, 007 1,307 1,143 3,400 85, 800 46,673 22, 200 80, 294 Kefevence. 02 699 2,500 (') $1,500 (=) (') (=) 900 624 442 700 1,500 (=) Trs. (') (') 3 (") 0) « 1 (') 1 P) (') 17, 350 0) 4,000 3,200 3,500 10, 000 2,774 20, 925 2,550 26, 255 3,000 20, 000 54, 000 6,000 13, 000 0,400 13, 900 40, 000 (') 10, 200 12, 000 10, 250 3,500 25, 000 6,000 6,745 3,900 2,127 87, 000 Reference. Reference 19, 544 24, 000 35, 428 Reference 30, 000 10, 437 54, 500 32, 224 Reference, 19, 821 46, 265 41,402 Reference, 17, 068 219, 349 121, 000 Reference. 116, 618 Reference. 106, 142 56, 137 130, 090 Reference (■») 100,000 12, 775 7,103 96, 311 16, 760 71, 210 133, 301 - 82, 696 800 55, 108 25, 740 1,500 1,800 800 (15) 650 1,600 800 260 2,000 1,500 900 1,000 1,000 1,600 600 (') 600 n 1,650 1 (') (') C) (12) (») (121 (») 1 1 n 2,800 600 (II) 1,200 803 1,080 3,000 750 3,000 3,600 ■ 800 C) 1,500 900 3,000 750 1,800 1,200 720 500 800 900 900 1,600 1,200 (') 1,300 650 (=) (12) 1 o 1 4 n (12) 0) 5 9 7 11 Im.. Im.. m 4im. 1 in.. Im.. 2w.. None Im.. 2w Im.. 2\v.. None 2m 12 w. (IS) 16-w. Coll 4"W. 4"W. 2Vir.. 2w.. '2-4 w (') Im-- (U) (") n 9 (») 4 1 (") P) 8 1 8 1 111 1 10 1 8 n 8 (») (14) n 10 m 8 1 10 1 10 2m. (") 2w.. 2w.. None 3w.. 2w.. 3w.. 1 2 . 2 5 (10) 7 1 8 4 7 2 71 2w. 8 Im. 9i'2w. 2i' None OtolOJ' 2-3 w n e) o^ Coll Im. (H) None 2«w. . None Im. Im. ,14) Im. (14) 2m. 2w.. 2w. 2w.. 2w.. 2-w. Coll 2-4 -w 20 d. None 2lT- 3w. None None (14) 2w.. Coll 3w. None Im 2w.. None (=) 780 468 338 2\v. 2 m . 2w.. None 6w.. 12 w 2w. « 100 05 720 60O (") 900 2w-. 3w.. 2-w.. 14 ll (18) 2w. 2w. None None 2w. 3w. 7to8 7 9 1 8 8 Hi 10 8 10 Coll Im.. 2w None 2w 208 600 520 (IC) 130 720 480 (•') 400 Im.. lin.. 2w.. None 2-4 w 1-5 IT 2w 2w.. 2-3 w 2w. 2w. 2w.. Coll 2-3 w 20(1 None 2w 3w.. None Im 3w 2w 3w None C) 900 ('). 264 800 400 810 (°) (23) 9O0 l«) 900 600 1,800 60 840 900 84 m (27) 480 720 $312. 00 (■') 50.00 300. 00 259. 00-600^00 (") 300. 00^600. 00 60.00-500.00 104. 00-400. 00 (15) " 540. 00 250. 00 180. 00-150. 00 240. 00 (») ^60.00 (=) (') "150.00 420. 00 (=) (23) 240. 00-1, 500. 00 (',1 "300 (2.) 300. 00-480. 00 300. OO-i; 080. 00 180.00-600.00 600. 00-660. 00 420. 00 (28) (27) 1' 600. 00 420. 00-480. 00 " 450. 00 17 Average. '8 1 day a week in summer. " $1 a day. " Small. !" Professor. 22 Sundays. 2312* cents an honr, others 10 to 15 cents an hour. 2> Regulars, $420 a year; others 12 cents an hour. 25 Began June], 1893. 26 10 cents an hour to $100 a year. 2' Paid by librarian. 762 EDUCATION EEPOET, 1892-93. Wamo of library. a > Toledo, Obio Topeka, Xass Trenton, N.J Do Troy.N.Y Verffennes, Vt Waltham, Mass Warwicfe, Mass Washington, D. C Do Do Do -Do Do WaterbuTy, Conn Watertown, Maaa "Water ville, Mo Wellealey, Mass "West "W'msted, Conn — "Wermoutli, Mass "Wi^keabarre, Pa "WindsOT, Tt , "Woburn, Mass "Wooclstoolc, Vt "Woonsockot, E. I Worcester, Mass Do Public Free public...- l\0w JTersey State Union (W.C.T.U.) Troy Toung Men's Association . . "Verpennes - Public do TJ. S. Bureau of lEldncation "D". S. Coast and Qcodetic Survey. LibraFy of Congress - U. S. Maval Aciulpmy U. S. Patent Office "D". S. "Weather Bureau Silas Branson Free public Colby UniTersity "Wellesley College Beardsley Tufts Caltego Oaterbout free Library Association Public Norman Williams public Harris Institute American Antiquarian Society. . Free public F F F S F F F F F F F F F F F...-. F.... S F S F.... F.... F F F F F F Gen .. Gen .. State . Geu .. Gen .. Gen .. Gen .. Gen . . Gov .. Gov .. Gov .. Gov .. Gov.. Gov .. Gen .. Gen .. Col... Col... Gen .. Gea .. Gen .. Gen .. Gen .. Gen .. Sch... Hist . . Gen .. 000 141 000 201 800 3S6 712 SSO 000 000 03,082 218 600 735 OOO 468 805 073 435 036 389 341 82,653 SI, 809. S8,48g 58,488 18, 522 565 229, 296 28, 691 7,058 7,091 3,600 4,846 10, 843 37,651 1,846 13, 491 2,645 20, 769 84, 636 84, 636 ' Pleasure of board. 2 For all. 8 Good behavior. ' Not given. 6 Total cost, $7,300. * Confideutiai. ' Indefinite. * 2 days a week. THE world's library OONGBESS. 763 $15, 000 5,000 4,700 2,000 (10) (10, 101,723 45, 760 Reference 15, 148 47, 012 43, 451 2,553 Reference. Reference, Limited, 12, 500 4,000 16, 000 600 6,000 2,580 8,000 7,500 28, 360 Reference, SI 65, 350 36, 000 7,500 Reference. 8,347 58,246 54,885 8,114 62, 926 12, 762 21, 297 Reference 199, 108 $720 W 600 1,020 200 650 30 1,800 4,000 1,800 2,000 1,600 1,800 (') 1,800 (13, (') 500 2.000 C) 1,200 360 600 1,800 3,500 uS fi Trt. V) (') 1 1 (") (=) (') "i (') m 1 1 £ fc O w ('). 1 3-w., 2-w. 1-a 2w.. 16 d. None 4-w.. None Im.. 30 d. 30 d. NoDe (') 30 d. 4w.. 2w.. CoU. 3m.. 2w.. 3-w.. 4"W.. None 2w.. None Im.. 3w. 30 d 7 64 7to8i 6 7 6 7 7 7to8 li 8 3-ST.. 2w.. None 2w.. 2iw 4w.. None None None None None 30 d 4-w. 2w. Coll 2 m. 2-w. 3W-. 4 w. . None 2w. Im. 3-W-. 30 d 500 1,400 2,500 1,400 W 1,000 TOO 200 (15, 800 78 600 250 (») 1,000 Shanes of other assistants. '$3,888.00 310. 00 120. 00 720. 00 dOO. 00-1, 800. 00 700. 00 (') 450. 00-100. 00 250. 00-500. 00 250. 00-500. 00 "800.00 480. 00-600. 00 (16, 5 10 hours a -week. ^^ See answer. " Pleasure of President. '2 Not fixed. " $900 and house. 14 Average. >B 15 cents an hour. "12i cents an hour to $750 a year. B'S No. No. No. No. No, No. Yes. Yea. No. No. No. Yes. No. Yea. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. ■764 education eepokt, 1892-93. The Los An&eles Public Library Training Class. By Tessa L. Kelso, Public Librarian, Los Angeles, Cal. In October, 1891, tlie folio wiug rules were adopted by the board: That previous to being given paid employment all applicants b( required to take a course of training in the library, not to exceed sij months. That once every three months an examination shall be held of sucl candidates as may have presented themselves for admission to tht classes. That these examinations be general in character, aiming only to determine whether by jtrevious education and natural adaptability the qualifications of the applicant are sufficient to warrant the undertak- ing of library work. That, having given satisfactory evidence of such qualification, the candidate be accepted as a pupil in the training class, subject to the following conditions : Entrance examination. — Open to young women of not less than 17 years of age. Candidates to file written applications on following blank provided for this purpose, agreeing to give three hours' daily service for a period of six months. APPLICATION FOR POSITION AS LIBRARY PUPIL. To the Board of Directors of the Los Angeles Fuhlic Library: I liereby make application to bo placed on the list for appointment as a pupil in the public library, subject to existing rnles and any rules to be hereafter made by the board of directors, and I herewith furnish answers to the questions below in my own handwriting. Questions. Answers. 1. Give full name 2. llesidenee (street and number) 3. How long liavo you resided in Los Angeles 1 4. Place of birth 5. Ago 6. Are you engaged in any occupation? Give particulars 7. What school training and business experience, if any, have you had /. . . 8. Have you a father living? IfGO.state where and in what business 9. Havoyou a mother living? , 10. Do you reside with your parents ? 11. What is the condition of your general health? 12. Have you read the printed rules and regulations of the library ? 13. Have youany knowledge of languages ? Give particulars 14. Give names and address ofjat least two persons to whom you refer [Signature of applicant.] Name Address ■ Dated • 189- THE world's LIBEAEY CONGRESS. 765 Los Angeles Publio Library Training Class. REQUIREMENTS. The library, in its training class, does not profess to give general information, or to make up deficiencies in early education, and therefore requires of all candidates for admission to the class attainuiouts equivalent at least to those of a completed high school course. Before submitting themselves for examination, candidates must have informed themselves of the contents both of the preface and appendix to the finding list, and of the rules and regulations of the library. Candidates will be examined in literature, history, current topics, and business forms. No promise of permanent employment in this library is lield out to any can- didate ; but all regular appointments to the library staff are made from the ranks of the library training class graduates. Applicants must be young -womeu not under 17 years of age, and they must agree to give three liours' daily service for a period of not less than six months, at the end of which time, upon passing an exiimination in a manner satisfactory to the board, they will be placed on the substitute list for paid employment as opportunity offers. SOGGBSTKD tREPARATIOX FOR ENTRANCE EXAMINATION. Make a copy of the 900 (history) classification adopted by this library. Fill in with the names of the most important authors and titles of books on the different periods and countries. See Dewey — Decimal Classification. See Adams's Historical Literature. See Freeman's Outlines. See Allen's History Topics. Make a copy of the 800 (literature-) classification adopted by this library. Fill in with the titles of the most important books of the authors there repre- sented. See Stodmnn — Encyclopedia of American Literature. See Underwood — Handbook of English Literature. See Allibone — Dictionary of Authors. See Scherer — History of German Literature. See Van Laun — History of French Literature. See Ticknor — History of Spanish Literature. Sec Quackenbos — Ancient and Classical Literature. See Dewey — Decimal Classification, Group the 800 (literature) classification into centuries, thereby making a contem- poraneous classification of the literature of all countries. See Dewey — Decimal Classification. Make a copy of the 320 and 330 (political economy and social science) classifica- tion. I'^ill in with authors and titles of books best representing subheads of these classes. See Dewey — Decimal Classification. Be able to name at least one authority on each one of the subclasses of 500 (natural science). See Dewey — Decimal Classification. Be familiar with the names and dates given in the 180-190 (history of philosophy) classification. See Dewey — Decimal Classification. 766 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. Tile examination is largely oral, and is conducted by a committee of tliree of the directors. The following specimen questions from the last examination show its nature: 1. Do you take books from the library? 2. Have you read tbo preface and appendix to the finding list? 3. What is Poole's Index? 4. What system of classification is used in this library? 5. Have you road the rules and regulations of this library, and questions bearing tliereou ? 6. What periodicals do you read? 7. Name the three largest towns in Los Angeles County in order. 8. What are the population, area, and manufactures of Los Angeles? 9. Write the names of five leading American novelists. 10. AVrite the titles of five leading American periodicals. Five leading British periodicals. 11. When ■was the first Atlantic cable laid? 12. What is the oldest record of a public libr.iry ? 13. Who invented printing and when was it introduced? 14. Write the names of five leading American daily newspapers. 15. Mention one writer and one book on each of the following subjects: Philoso- phy, religion, education, astronomy, geology, fine arts, travels. 16. Write the title of one work of the following authors, giving author's nation- ality : Euskin, Prescott, Darwin, Schiller, Hugh Miller. 17. Write the names of authors of the following works : Sartor Besartus, Don Quixote, Jerusalem Delivered, Robinson Crusoe, Gates Ajar, Pentateuch, Mother Goose, Locksley Hall, Eve of St. Agnes, Wealth of Nations, Water Babies. 18. Who made the first English dictionary, and when? 19. Name the standard English dictionaries of to-day, and describe their respective merits. 20. Wlio was the founder of the school of American fiction? 21. Write the names of five loading American poets. Five leading English poets. 22. LocatS by century and briefly characterize: Bacon, Molifere, Garrick, Michael Angelo, Newton, Copernicus, Tasso, Pope, Milton, Spanish Armada, Nelson, Cervantes, Shakespeare, etc. Enough candidates, i, e., not less than six, having satisfactorily passed the entrance examination they immediately report for duty, and from this time are governed by the rules and regulations of the regular staff. Hours of arrival are assigned to each pupil, and their names are entered on the time register for regular employees. All absence and tardiness from whatever cause is noted and reported to the examining committee on the day of the final examination. Very little theoretic instruction is given, the work of the pupil being abso- lutely practical ; not part of, but all the actual daily routine of the library is supplemented by lectures on library economy aind compara- tive literature. Pupils are encouraged to attend the meetings of the Southern California Library Club, where topics of a technical and gen- eral nfiture are discussed by teachers and librarians of Los Angeles and surrounding towns. Pupils are not only shown how a thing is done; they are required ta do it themselves. Under direction of the assistant librarian, each pui>lil in turn serves as an understudy to the heads of the various departments. The library has a collection of THE WORLD'^S library CONGRESS. 767 blanks from 40 or 50 American and English libraries whicli are used for comparative study in the diflerent departments. No fees for either the first or second course are exacted, and no conditions requiring educational diplomas are made. Apprenticeship is divided into two courses of six months of three hours' daily service each, and the work of each student is apportioned as follows : FIEST COURSE, THREE TERMS, TWO MONTHS EACH. First term, eight weekg, time hours daily. Accession, first to sixth week. — First week: Theory of selecting and buying books, prices, editions, duty, transportation. Second week: Examination of trade cata- logs, publishers' lists, and second-liand catalogs. Third and fourth weeks: Cor- respondence, including library handwriting, care of letter, order, and gift books, letter files, presses, etc. Fifth and sixth weeks : Ecceptiou of books, checking bills, preparation of books for the shelves. Binding and mailing, seventh and eighth wceis. — Student prepares books for bindery, keeps bindery book, inspects bindery, receives, checks, records aud files the period- icals and newspapers, care of periodical subscription lists, use of postal notes and money orders, local and foreign rates for first, second, third, and fourth class matter explained. Second term, eight toeeks, three hours daily. Classification, first to fourth week. — Dewey and Cutter systems" taught, others explained. Last week in this work given to study of typographic form of cata- logs. Three hours each month given to reading proof of library bulletin and special lists. A rotatory schedule is arranged to cover three months, assigning to each pupil the weekly care of one of the 10 classes in the circulating department- During this time pupUs have the entire care of the diflferent classes, keeping the shelves in order, the books neatly labeled, the shelf sheets up to date, reporting missing volumes, etc. . Seference, fourth to eighth tvcek.—Fiiat week : Study of catalogs and bibliographies. Second week : Examination of reference books, compilation of five lists of reference books, viz, one of $500, one of $1,000, one of $2,000, one of $2,500, and one of $5,000, respectively. Third week : Study of authorities on history, political economy, relig- ion, and art. Fourth week: Compilation of a speciallist. Subjects of lists prepared by previous classes are as follows : Arthurian legends, American history by periods, American history by geographical divisions, a study of California State documents with reports made to the governor, a study of works on ancient art, a study of the St. Amand series. United States publications. • * * These studies embrace the mechanical form of the volumes, the standing and personality of the author, and tho source and comparative merit of the text. Third term, eight weeks, three hours daily. Loan and shelf. — First week: Library use. Pupil makes a collection of all blanks used in this library, and examines the collections of blanks of other libraries, which are mounted and indexed for this use. Second week : Home use. Pupil completes her collection and examination of blanks, and studies various methods of charging, recording, lost and overdue books, school loans, branch libraries, etc. Third week : Registration. Pupil is stationed at registry desk to do actual service under direction of tho clerk in charge. Fourth week: Pupil studies arraugemont ot' shelves, nota- 768 EDUCATION EEPOET, 1892-93. tion, value of fixed and relative locations, oaro of documents, pamphlets, maps, music, periodicals, shelf sheets, etc. Fifth to eighth vreek, inclusive : Pupils are assigned to practical work at the receiving, delivery, and registry desks. lixamination. — Having completed the six-months course, a written examination, covering the work done, is required. Time, 10 hours; total number of credits, 500, divided as follows : Accession (12 questions) 120 _ Classification and reference (16 questions) 160 Loan and shelf (12 questions J 120 Thesis.. 100 Thesis io he on some subject of library economy selected by the pupil and approved by the committee, and submitted on the day of examination. Pupils passing with au average of 70 per cent receive certificates, an average of 85 per cent entitling them to employment in the library for six months, four hours a day, at $10 per month, provided the pupil takes the second course. Los Angeles Pdblic Library. pupil's certificate. Los Angelks, Cal., , 189 — . This is to certify that has completed the first course of six mouths' study in this library for the purpose of qualifying iu the duties of an attendant, and lias passed the prescribed examination with credit. Maximum credits, . Percentage obtained, . , President. Attest : Clerk and Librarian. Following is the final first course examination, given to the last class, with sub- jects of theses. Ten credits are assigned to each question. 1. What is the main financial support of this library ; how is it derived, and under what conditions? 2. Describe concisely everything that is done with a book, or in relation to it, from the time it is ordered to the time it gets on the library shelves. 3. Name at least five great book markets of the world. 4. What is the average discount to a public library on American books bought in New York? 5. Name at least six authentic sources, not necessarily American, of valne to the librarian in the selection of books. 6. Name at least five large American publishing houses, giving their location. 7. What American publishing firm makes a specialty of maps, atlases, guides, etc., and where is it located? 8. How would you trace the price and publisher of an American book published within the last six months? 9. What determines the value of an edition for public library use? 10. Describe concisely the purpose and form of the accession book. 11. Note briefly the records necessary in the accession department. THE WOELD's library CONGRESS. 769 12. Abbreviate — 1. Biography. 2. Illustrated. 3. Society. 4. Translated-or. 5. Chronologic. G. Died. 7. From. 8. Chriatian. 9. Latin. 10. Swedish. 11. Manuscript. 12. Published-er. 13. Anonymous. 14. Report. 15. lupludiug. 16. American. 17. Largo octavo. 18. Compiled-er. 19. Born. 20. French. 21. Greek. , 22. Roman. 23. Danish. 24. Number-s. 25. Engraver-ed. 2G. Edition-or. 27. Catalogue. 28. Journal. 29. Series. 30. Supplement. 31. Introduction. 32. Copy-copyrighted. 33. Fiction. 34. German. 35. Italian. 36. RussiJin. 37. English. 38. Part. 39. Pseudonym. 40. Volumes. 13. What are the principal systems of classification adopted by American libra- ries, and what are their chief points of variance? 14. What are some of the characteristic features of the Dewey system? 15. Define the classification or arrangement adopted in a classed catalog, an author catalog, a dictionary catalog, and cite an instance of each. 16. What are the chief enemies of a library book and the causes of its injury and destruction? 17. Explain notation, classification, and cataloging, aud define their relative connection. 18. Name the principal dictionaries of the English language in use to-day, and give your estimate of their comparative merits and advantages. 19. Name five important books issued during the last six months, with description and critical note. 20. Give a list of 5 daily, 10 weekly, and 20 monthly periodicals you would sug- gest for a public library newsroom. 21. Describe briefly the bibliographic periodicals of this country. Describe Poole's Index. In looking up the subject of the Reformation, of what assistance would the be to you? Define 923, 143, 68, b''. What catalogs of United States public documents have been and are being issued? 26. What connection have the following-named persons with American literature? Justin Winsor, R. R. Bowker, F. Leypoldt, Paul Leicester Ford, Wm. I. Fletcher, Wm. Dwight Whitney. 27. Malie as complete a list as you can of the magazines and reviews on file in the reference room of this library. 28. Of what special fiction lists have you knowledge? 29. Who is eligil)le to membership in this library, and under what conditions? 30. What is the responsibility of the guarantor? 31. Describe the school-delivery system of this library. 32. Outline briefly the delivery-station system and the branch-library system. 33. Specify briefly the rules of this library for the time limitations of book loans; for fines imposed for delinquencies; for the security to bo given in case of loss of book or card. 34. What is the function of the shelf sheet? 35. Give a form of monthly report on the work of a public library. 36. Give the points to be covered by the index to the membership of a public library. ED 93 49 22. 23. D. C. 24. 25. 770 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. 37. State, as nearly as you can, the relative circulation of the different classes of this library. 38. Describe the "slip case" and its uses. 39. Mate au imaginary receipted invoice for any twelve books, showing various discounts of 25, 33i, and 40 per cent. 4.0. Describe the qualifications necessary for success in an attendant who waits on the public at the counter. Subjects of theses: "Library benefactions," 1,293 words; "Two aspects of the library question, education— recreation," 1,328 words; "Importance of proper read- ing for the young," 1,160 words; "American bibliographies," 1,399 words; "Charg- ing systems," 1,650 words; "Service at the desk in a public library," 1,008 words. SECOND COlDESi;, SIX MONTHS. Two terms, three montha each, three hours daily. First term. Practical cataloging, Cutter system taught; others explained. Second term. Theoretic work based on deductions made by careful study of Ameri- can and foreign library reports and statistics and professional periodicals. Thor- ough study of California State law governing libraries, and of its application ia municipal administration. £j:anwnaable, apparently possessing that quick perception and tact so desirable in public library service, proved on trial utterly incapable of performing that most trying of all the library duties, namely, desk service. To be able to cope suc- cessfully with a restless throng at the delivery desk, or to make cour- teous and appropriate suggestions or directions to readers is a faculty not learned in any school but that of experience. Such cases as above cited drop from the ranks of the apprentices in a perfectly natural manner. That sifting process is constantly going on, so that those who remain have won confidence by proved efficiency. For small libraries specially hampered by a chronic necessity for retrenchment, the plan of a training class or apprentice system is rec- ommended as a direct saving of money. There is always enough local material within reach which, though undesirable in its inexperienced state, will nevertheless, trained and fitted for service, be a considerable factor in securing for the library the general esteem. As this is the library's source of support, it is a double-edged stroke of policy to train local employees, thereby not only fastening its hold on its constituents but at the same time receiving an amount of service which, if paid for in coin, would add considerably to the annual salary account. Sunday Opening of LiBBAEtES. By Mahy Salome Cutlek, Vice-Director No-w York State Library SchooL This theme has the advantage of being unhackneyed, at least in the ordinary channels of library discussion. Except for a single casual mention at the Thousand Islands, it first carae before the American Library Association in St. Louis, 1889. This report is simply a revision of that paper, bringing it up to date. The Government report, our text-book of library science, makes only incidental mention of it. The index to the Library Journal gives us 63 references to the subject, but 772 EDUCATION REPOKT, 1892-93. only 3 to an article covering more than a single page. It lias but one mention in the 12 numbers of Library Notes. In 1877, while entertain- ing their American cousins, the British librarians had a little informal talk on this subject. In 1879 a Sunday opening motion was withdrawn by Mr. Axon in deference to the feelings of the opposition, and In the three following years similar motions were tabled without discussion. (Seei.j. 2: 274-5; 4: 420; 5: 265-66; 6: 258; 7:231.) However this may be accounted for, we would claim for it an Important place among the practical problems that must be solved by the modern librarian ia raising his library to the highest usefulness. The present discussion is limited to public libraries, though the statis- tics gathered include other classes. Much that will be said applies to libraries in general; moreover, the various kinds shade into each other, e. g., the proprietary often does the same work as the free public. The strongest advocates of the plan will try to convince us, with at least some show of reason, that even libraries for scholars should be run on the *' town-pump " principle, and will point us to the fact that the Bos- ton Athenseum has been open on Sunday since 1807, and that Harvard College library, an acknowledged leader, has opened its doors from 1 to 5 on Sunday since October 3, 1880, with a growing use &om that day to this. They will also remind us that this action was approved /by Phillips Brooks as chairman of the board of overseers. At the same time there is a clear distinction between libraries for scholars and libraries for the people ; between working libraries (mental laboratories) and those designed for recreation and general culture. Arguments which obtain for opening the one do not hold good for the other. We therefore choose not to complicate the matter by a minor issue, but to ask ourselves in all seriousness the practical question, Should free libraries be open on Sunday? We are met at the outset by the statement that the plan proposed is a dangerous step because of its inevitable tendency to secularize the Sabbath. It is looked on as the opening wedge which would lead grad- ually to breaking down the day of rest. From libraries and art galleries to museums is a single step, and by and by the lowering of public con- science will call for Sunday concerts, and a little later Sunday theater- going will be looked on with complacence. Meanwhile, if men must work that others may be amused, the passion for gain will soon demand increase of labor in other directions. They picture to us the French Sunday, a Sabbath only in name and in reality a seventh day of labor, and with this in mind we feel that those who have these matters in hand should think twice before running any risk of such a consum- mation. In Cardiff, Wales, where there is a free library and museum, an offer was made of a valuable gift of pictures, on condition that the picture gallery be kept open on Sunday. The reply of the committee (after refusing to call for the opinion of the taxpayers) expresses the senti- THE world's library CONGRESS. 773 ment of that large class of earnest and conscientious citizens who oppose such movements : Resolved, That in the opinion of this committee, seeing the logical issue of open- ing museums on Sunday must involve an enormous increase in Sunday lahor, and so lead to the virtual enslavement of workingmeu and to the prejudice of national interests, it is undesifahle to accept the oifer of Colonel Hill on the condition named. This is the position taken by Bishop Potter in an admirable article (see New Princeton Eeview for 1886, 2 : 37-47), one of the best presenta- tions of this side of the Sunday question." It shows an entire absence of the Pharisaic spirit and a thoughtful consideration of the best inter- ests of the laboring class. He makes a strong point of the claim that the workingmen themselves do not desire Sunday opening. This feel- ing is expressed by a vote taken in England in 1882, where, he says, 62 trades unions, representing 45,482 members, voted in favor of Sunday opening, while 2,412 societies and 501,705 members voted against such opening; and further by the opinion of such men as Broadhurst and Mundella, who were originally workingmen, and stand in the House of Commons as representatives of that class. Both these men opposed the motion before Parliament to open national museums and libraries on the day of rest, the stand taken by them largely influencing the vote (208 to 84) which defeated the measure. . Summing up the objections, we would say that Sunday opening is -opi)osed by many of our best citizens because — 1. It compels additional Sunday labor. 2. It tends surely to secularize the Sabbath. ■ 3. The workingmandoes not want it. These various objections will appear to us weak or weighty, accord- ing to our idea of Sunday itself, and in fact this discussion involves the whole Sunday question. If, therefore, we would come to an honest and reasonable conclusion, we must not shrink from facing this much- vexed and perplexing subject of dispute. Are there not two well-defined and distinct conceptions of Sunday observance, apd also two equally well-deflned and distinct conceptions ' of libraries? Best from bodily labor in the strictest sense, and a day devoted to purely religious exercises, is the ideal Sunday of the Jew, the Puritan, and of a large body of Protestant Christians of our time. An investi- gation of our early State laws shows legislation on the subject very nearly uniform in its purpose, in its prohibitions and penalties. Ordi- nary work, business, travel, recreation, fishing, hunting, visiting, riding, driving cattle, walking in the fields, loitering, selling liquor, and using tobacco were restricted; churchgoing was commanded, and punish- ments like fines, whipping, putting in the stocks, cutting off ears, and imprisonment were rigidly inflicted. During the early days of Vir- 'lu a later article Bishop Potter favors Sunday opening of lihraries. (See Forum, 1892, 14: 194-200. 774 ginia, before the organization of the General Assembly, absence from church was visited with a night's imprisonment and a week's slavery; for the second offense, a month's slavery, and for the third, a year and a day. (See Cooke, John Esten. Virginia, 1883, p. 112.) Passing by the severity of those early days and coming down to the New England Sunday two or three generations ago, we find the same idea in a milder and more attractive form. Perhaps some of us have spent a Sabbath in one of those old New England towns where the modern spirit of inquiry and doubt has not yet penetrated. An air of peace and calm pervades the place. The churchgoing and the hymnsinging and the quiet hours for thought were a perfect heaven to a devout and aspiring soul. But this world is not made up of saints, and " the Sabbath was made for man." Strangely enough, something in this notion of Sunday reminds one of the library of the olden time. A Sabbath stillness at all times per- vaded this temple of wisdom. The object of its existence was to inspire due reverence for itself. The priest of the temple was never so happy as in the summer vacation, when every book was in its proper place on the shelves and himself the only occupant. We must not, however, make the mistake of undervaluing the influence of the old-school library. It has preserved for us the treasures of antiquity, without which our modern scholarship would have been meager; it has opened its doors to the scholar and to the man of leisui-e; it has, moreover, encouraged in him independence of thought during the frequent inter- vals in which its gates were barred. Like the old-time Sabbath, its work has been limited, because, like the Sabbath, it has existed for its own sake and not first of all for man. /The other conception of Sunday has for its primary thought the good of man, and that not of the favored few, but of all. Like its predeces- sor, it involves physical rest and spiritual opportunity, but is not con- fined to these. It provides for the growth and development of the entire man — physical, mental, social, {esthetic, moral, and spiritual. With this view, no iron code of laws can be laid down |br its observ- ance. Such a code would be subversive of its purpose; it must change as man changes, adapt itself to new surroundings, supply liis fresh aud varying needs, and, without arbitrary decree or provision of statute or exhortation from the pulpit, perpetuate itself and work out its glad and beneficent mission. I like Beecher's characterization of Sunday as a " parlor day," from which, of our own free will, we keep the common utensils of the kitchen, the barn, and the workshop. Frederick Denison Maurice, whose clear spiritual eye often sees a truth obscured to more earthly visions, tells us in his Life and Letters — It is certain that vre and tlie Romanists liave each taken lialf tlie idea of Sunday, and spoiled that half; they believing it to ho a day of joy, and therefore working their bodies and giving way to bodily license upon it, and we supposing it to be spiritual, and therefore making it sad. (Seo Life, Vol. I, p. 303.) THE world's library CONGRESS. 775 Surely this need not be. We can not be content to settle down to tlie conviction expressed in these words ascribed to Horace Greeley: " You must choose between the Puritan Sabbath and the Parisian Sun- day ; there is no middle-ground." Already leaders of religious thought point to something better. The Bampton lecture for 1860, entitled " Sunday, its origin, history, and obligation," breathes this broad and generous spirit; and the concluding chapter, "The Lord's day viewed practically," is well worth reading in this connection. The following is from an article in the Atlantic Monthly for 1881 (-17: 537), called "The new Sunday:" The trend of the now Sunday is in the direction of a healthier and more persuasive Christianity, not -wholly nor immediately -what all could wish, hut enough to give one hope of better things in store. The escape from the narrow requirements of an earlier day may for the moment, even, be the taking of some steps backward. To see social and religious changes correctly one must not look at them from a local point of view alone. The present influence of Sunday is to broaden the Christian conception of the possibilities of ethical life and to uplift mankind on the physical, social, and intellectual, as truly as upon the moral and spiritual side. Such a Sabbath would be, as Emerson called it, " the jubilee of the whole world." (See ]Sature, addresses.and lectures, p. 147.) We will let Mr. Dewey tell what is meant by the modern library idea : With the founding of Now England it was recognized that the church alone could not do all that was necessary tor the safety and uplifting of the people, so side hy side they buUt the meetingliouse and sehoolhouse. Thoughtful men are to-day pointing out that a groat something is wanting, and that church and state together have not succeeded in doing all that' was hoped or all that is necessary for the com- mon safety and for the common good. The school starts the education in childhooLi ; we have come to a point where in some way we must carry it on. The simplest figure can not bo bounded by less than three lines; no more can the triangle of groat edu- cational work, now well begnu, be complete without the church as a basis, the school as one side and the library as the other. (See Lib. Notes, 3: 339.) With this motive fresh in our minds, shall we not agree that the library aims to do for the community by the aid of books and personal contact what the Sabbath supplies by a wider circle of influences, both taking the mass of people as they are and working to build them up in all that tends to noble life? If this be true, it is most natural and practical that they should use each other and work hand in hand toward the same end. To put it more definitely, there is a large class of people who will not go to church and who will not read the Bible who could be reached by the means of grace afforded by a library. There is, especially in cities, a multitude of men without homes to whom Sunday is rather a day of temptation than of rest. As the Christian Union expresses it — What can a Christian community do for this great class (on Sunday) better than to provide a kind of communistic substitute for homo, in a room furnished with pic- tares and with books, warmed and lighted and made comfortable staying places? 776 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93 The Eev. Plato Johnson, a pseudonymous writer in the New York Independent of February 23, 1882, gives us this idea in terse and expressive language: Dere ain't no use in openin a libry fer de pore, ■vren noboddy can cum to it, an' shettiu it tite, wen obberybody -wants ter go in. Ef you opens dat libery on de Sun- day and invites all de pore to cum in and git a book so interestin dat dcy wunt warit ter go out an git a drink, de fuss pusson datVill make a row 'bout it an say 'taint rite, will be de ole gen'leman bisaelf wot lives below. Nor does this imply giving people culture in place of religion. Bap- tists are not open to the charge of preaching the religion of culture, but one of their ministers makes an earnest appeal for Sunday opening. He says : Anything that helps the mind to better thoughts and keeps the eyes from vile and gross objects is not a hindrance but a help to the religious life, and will lead there if persisted in. Besides those who need to be enticed to a library on Sunday, there are many intelligent workingmen, who have already begun the work of self-improvement, who find Sunday the only time for reading or study; do not deny them a Sunday afternoon in a quiet place relieved from the distractions of the home. Perhaps you have no right to deny them on their only day of leisure that which they are taxed for as a common good. True, a certain number can utilize their evenings for this purpose, but a hard day of manual labor more often leaves a man quite unfitted for mental effort. We hear a great deal now about semi- nary work; it is the latest phase of the library movement. When will you do such work for the unprivileged classes except on Sunday, and what could be a more hopeful way of reaching the masses, the vexed problem of the church of to-day? Speaking of a similar work in the museums, Heber Newton says: How beautiful a ministry of brotherhood to be accepted, nay, even solicited, in the holy name of religion! Alas! that it is religion itself, thevery religion of Jesus of Nazareth, which, with an earnestness worthy of a more intelligent discipleship, is barring this stop forward in the intellectual progress of hosts of our fellow-citizens. (See his sermon, "Superstition of the Sabbath," Day Star, Feb. 4, 1886.) In the light of what has been said, we may perhaps return to the three objections against Sunday opening. We must admit the first; it does increase Sunday labor; though, as we shall show later, the increase is very small, probably less in propor- tion to the number served than is necessitated by church services. But our new view of the purpose of Sunday throws new light on this fact. The question to be asked is. Will the step proposed conduce to the real elevation of the community ? Since, then, by the labor of a few the majority can be heljied to the right and legitimate use of Sun- day, the first objection falls to the ground. The second argument, that it tends to secularize the Sabbath, is unanswerable. Such an objection is always unanswerable. Doubtless THE world's library CONGRESS. 777 the first man in New England who asserted that he had a moral, and ought to liave a legal right to take a quiet walk in the fields of a Sun- day afternoon had this same objection flung in his face. Unquestion- ably it does have that tendency, but what shall we do about it? We are not willing to go back to the Puritan Sabbath, we do not want the Parisian Sunday; for fear of the one, must we cling to such relics of the superstitions of the other as are left to ns? Must we not rather judge each case on its merits, ask each new innovation if it can bring us enough good to balance the risk, ask if its spirit is that of the ideal Sabbath for man ? Judged by that standard, Sunday opening has come to stay. The third objection was that the Avorkingman does not want Sunday opening. The Nineteenth Century for 1884 (15: 410-34) goes at length into this matter. It claims that the statistics referred to in Bishop Potter's article are of no value, since they were worked up by " The Lord's Day Eest Association," which put the question, "Do you approve the amendment for opposing the increase of Sunday labor 1 " thus plac- ing a totally false issue before the workingmen; and against these is pitted another, set of figures obtained by a vote taken previous to the other vote, in which there was a powerful majority in favor of Sunday opening. It is difficult for us to weigh the merits of these votes. Probably we would best disregard them both. We may notice, how- ever, that those who voted against Sunday opening appear to have done so," not because it seemed undesirable in itself, but from fear that it might lead to enforced Sunday labor, a point which we have tried to answer above. Should we wait the demand of the laboring man in providing means for his growth and uplifting? Surely it is more reasonable to expect that those who, through no merit of their own, have been endowed with richer gifts and opportunities, should make it their constant study and find it their highest joy to anticipate his aspirations, t Thus far we have been viewing this subject theoretically. Prom a more practical standpoint, what has been already done toward solving the problem? The appended statistics are a part of those collected by the library school as the A. L. A. committee for the World's Columbian Exposi- tion, 1893. Though prepared with considerable care, great caution should be used in deducing conclusions. In spite of the proverbial veracity of figures, they do not always prove what they seem to do— e. g., N is put down as a library not open on Sunday. It is a well-known and well-managed library, and the inference is that its example counts against opening. But if we find later that it is a town made up almost entirely of beautiful homes, whose owners have libraries of their own, we put it down on a list of libraries not needing Sunday opening, and therefore not affecting the argument. In a few cases Sunday opening has been tried and failed, because introduced by outside pressure and 778 EDUCATION REPOET, 1892-93. lacking the librarian's cooperation 5 sometimes a progressive miuority have brought it about prematurely and very an^visely. A fair presen- tation of the exact status of Sunday opening in American libraries TFOuld involve a great outlay of time. The investigator should know each library, its work, and the spirit of its work, the town and the people who make up its constituency. Still, the figures and facts pre- sented, though unsatisfactory, indicate the trend of opinion, and at least serve as a basis for further study. For purposes of comparison the list has been divided into three classes; (1) Free libraries, including those supported by the city, like the Boston public, and also those maintained by private philanthropy, of which the Astor and the Providence Public are examples. Libraries partly free and partly subscription have been counted free. (2) Subscription libraries, both the mercantile and the atheuseum types, and all variations of the two. (3) College libraries. Libraries reporting. INumber. Not open. •Open. Suooess- ful. TJnsnc- cessluL DoiiTjtfnl. Tried and given Free 121 15 30 C8 9 20 53 6 10 Snbscription - Collego Total 172 136 103 77 69 69 55 1 6 Jl Free autl aubscripl^n flours range mostly from 2 to C or 9 p. m. Of the 69 reading rooms or libraries reported open, 12 have morning hoxirs. So many have failed to state extra expense that the average has not been taken. Eeference to the statistics will show that, so far as given, the cost compared to running is surprisingly small. The answers to the questions. Why is your library not open? What are your objections? are substantially three. Expense; no call for itj religious objections. It is significant that of the G9 libraries open, 55 call it a success. Of these 15 are not content with a simple afifirmative, but express the fact in such words as perfectly, decidedly, entirely. As an indication of favorable sentiment, I cite a few sentences taken from printed reports and from private letters of librarians : [W; F: Poolo.] I fully agree with the position you have taken in regaxd to Sunday opening. I have for twenty years been theoretically and practically in favor of Sunday opening. [S: S. Green, L. J., 0: 85-B6.] It is my opinion that it does no harm, but, on the contrary, much good, to have the reading rooms open on Sunday. I am confident that the cause of good morals has been largely promoted by having them oi)en on this day of tie week. THE world's LIBKAEY CONGRESS. 779 [J. IT. Lamed, L. J., 12: 230: 13: 135.] TIio results [of Sunday opening] have more than Tindicated the wisdom of those who advocated this measure, and have removed, I think, whatever slight hesitancies there may have been in conservative minds. The opening of the reading room on Sunday has been continued through the year with increasing satisfaotoriness. Generally speaking, the use of the rooms is only limited by the number of seats in them. [E. M. Coo, N. Y. Free Circulatins Library.] The report of the Sunday work seems to answer every objection which can be made to Sunday opening. \ [F: M. Crundoji, St. Lotda Public Library.] The Sunday opening here is an ua O O O O O 1) • (Q •co dvSoooov d iaac omoojSnipuoji; c; oj S o o S S ddoSoS dS 6$S6 6 66^ 6 jDjE-p— nadoji COCO 00 0000 i 1 i i-i 1 1 : p -2 ' 1 i o 1 a O 1 e C a t > ■a £ C i i as ! 1 c3 bC g .g 3 'S ll i<5 I : II 1 i 1 1 1 1 ^1 III 1 i ll Km O 1 • M 1 1 p 1 1 >1 Hi t-l •g 1 a t4 < IE •S a 1 pi 1 1 i ■ ll 1 '^ i s OO.OODOO(1> O O 4) 1 i'^ Assistants receive $2 each. $5.50 a Sun- day. p 1^ 1- 1 i ag o d g 1 k 1 a s a ;i ^ 1 More quiet and atn^ dious. Almost all men. r ii =0 i o Kegillar at- tendants witll ex- tra pay. c >• 1 c la C 5 Kegular at- tendauts with ex- tra pay. ^1 c -a ia o :a» o ■ o -♦J 1 t-j 93 ■ rH s a p. p. = 3 o a a ft a s s a p< a a (ip. o o a C4 a o :" - I S .CO DO § " CO i g CD is ■ M i ^ s ^ O o CO o ;» □0 3 d c ^ ^ c 1 ^ J2 1 o c c 1^ d c 1 _ < c } J, a » B « a e o o o ® s ooo) OS) eoo oooooovv !zi|zijziS*qii!il>^>^ O o a 00 1— 00 00 afsT S±to 1W 3.gg fc! ^ a ^2S « ? «3 B|§.W ifi m 0) _ _ go •3 ; :aa Mg s g «^ a a .gfef:&,§-g-Sa (S o HIM ffi S m °S "■a 'a p< «4H 0>J < en 2 "S'?' & "S? a 13^4 aft P.? t«Hg -a ■a* o o o :::3 O . U C3 r^ ^ q ^ fj . ft ,; g Pift . ■ aJ4a • a fO H « mm SO POO a -£.se^ a o o o « ftOMpH 784 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. H U la O O O (LI U n « S ^9 fas . o ■ M ft (D-. o ® "■a a m o o o ■O-d H-« . a - J +3 O . (O i f^^ O J fc; CO d t4 O V •"mi's ■S S ft !! H>< 1^! i^ij 03 w as fto sa o o a Es U3 mm o o o fri '-13 |i a o § 3 •1^ =0 il •lirecr •^Bpang •■^iiBa -.iupaus o o o o o o o o o o e o o o o 13 V muooooo o o o o o <^N t>^H « 0) o o o o o £ u9c[o mooi S aipuo'^ O O O O O 0) O O O V V o o t>HtH jQjtip— uodo ji C4 n CO 00 so 00 « « O 9 O O O O >> o 'ft-a'5 S Isa^^il FN i Xtl'Ji OO • eS n ca CO OB w Zj „ (0 _ a S 3 «£ Soft « ft : .£• :3 fa ^ CQ >^P a O 3 a p J ftS . pjO} O o s P ■ssisi'gi (§ ^■3 COO) il .' ft OK) p K C (0 o ois b^ - ft ■M-S-SSS'S-B' 01 5 ij .;i B B ftO a. B B|5ga^B4 THE world's LIBEARY CONGRESS. 785 tXfHH >^ rs na SS s R;>^ w CO « « a ; CO 1 4i1 e3 i 5 i 1 3 § : a m in o o 1^ 1 g a o 1 a ^ o |2i L & 1 1 tD o o 4 C O 2 1 1 1 EBB us CO CO a p. o 5 s ag p. p. »? CO a A o o a S ci a OS 5 a d Ol al s 1 eo J5 ,55 • us O e I s ^ - 1 o o o o o Izilzih o o o o o o o 1 ^ o o a> o O 3 o |2i o o o o o o ^ O d (D « o 6 6 6 ;^ dodo fe!2ik5lZi d S ^ i ■ I (0 ' O O QJ o s H 6 aS JziiZitM 6 6 1 OVOSO OOO 4> ocoo oc O 9 O) O V S o o © O O O o o o O 00 t* > 00 C^ ODGO 00 '00 00 i ft o O ti JtHfM ■SbI- o >=a3 111 i %iH I!- ^fc t i ■- S ga §3 .S'p- KM 0) ID O O Ma. I =11 l^itoMi "Im d-§ r3 "^1 :H !2! OOOOOOOVCU o .^ ^ o © - , _ m fl o£MMHBPt>t> 788 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. n (dn^t U9at3 pnij ( uor?sont> pojoprsnoo lOAg; (0» 2S g-S g o d m o B •a M -d 4) fl (B O t> R >1 "if q ^ a " § £ ^ a S ^ 13 £ s S e3 tH-i3 p" a o m Pi o a -i ® o ^d2«a fig 1" ill" 3 o tb tM(H •3 s* !zi H ftoS ■33 o a Sg .205" e3 c3 £} ID 'la .gg. •§« § Sd|3 O h F^ LI - ■ .23 ^ a «: a e3.a S CIBOOOOO 12 S3 -gs I ^ n n THE world's library CONGRESS. 789 "1 a . a ■d 3 o P o O c!a.S.d (. 3 o a .S»6I3 o a g 3 S o,a o 3 o a 3 to 11 § a > fl N ^ o ^ S c3 O O C to "II o e 0) • ■ o j3 o ,Q.a «g.s : M ;.a •2b £ g p. •" S'S ■§ ■3 ft 'S art ffl W 8 a o 5, . . --« a >,, S£.2-go"§'ri S'SS-cJg'a's'i g* Mo P'3 Ha S a S'3'a g o S-a B Q CO fq i-l 1^ P ca a T3 O a a o o a cs a M V O 9 ^-1 ^ □ ,-H --H +» C3 2 o - o © s ^ ialasl-g « o o 1^ a ". 5M 3 So i?i-i p: J o". l2iH 09 (n 1^ (^Ma Cl 03 MM CC a U2 I/l 23 c! « d •5a „- a S a o a o ^ ■■a : a ■3,2 o" o a 'AH <0 O 9 - -a •a "§a KJ •2 9 oat. BriH abH V o eg u p- ■ -J tsaB "a-3 .o-^.a^« -a (1<(1|,P,,(1|(14. ftA p. p> 8 o° =» tfi COM a a '-' a •■= •r, 3 a 3 a a-^ © : a -.-a f* o >3 gal tag o M2 d ^ oj 9£ CO M CO 'cotncQ a S p.^ J3 e& a m coHH 5 fts ft- O . ^^ai?-i O O tH « S fl 792 EDUCATION 3 -s a 3 ■-3 " S » O OD I ^ e ^ 2 dn !)i noAiS pun S OS'-' .9 5 a "^s? Si" 2 ■" g g s a -s !>. p d (» ^9 c3 5 ■'=' L. CO ■« 3 ■aSs 9.S •=3 3 11 5 M rt fid' " 3 S- ■ £ ■B 1 ^sa a ■§ 3 =-3 go. ° » .a o o l^i h ci o sa [g P a IS > ^ ac-e-o omS a (B C Xtw a a a o o OO a .9 n Ji f» .P-o g gO o a a B ate a a •SO Is B .Si B- Phh ffi I ra o ^ fc s:; •<-' !o a> ® M J 03 oi-s.=8 a"^^ THE WOEIjD's library CONGRESS. 793 S 61 3 « era -".2 ° S « o w .91 bd g ■a ■Sa (D O ai^ a ■§ n S3 ■ o B » 2 000 !2i |2! 3 1? to ■a -»3 43 00 • ^ W +3 -^ L^ GU l.-3||g^ ^ OQ com P 1^ :^ :►, >< :§ .27-'3ja!s! oS Sfe;l-2n- 0<)lJOfL| ^ si's a BBSS MMOOOOOOPRR a> a bIW 1^ W 09 OS5 Sa 3^3 F-i (D I? a" Pg U O a «!- Hj- p © w ^ M 794 EDUCATION BEPOBT, 1892-93. 5 J uoii.sonL pojopTSnoo J A a; o o lO o > p. b. 03 S3 wa" B^2 p ^- c3 a bS ^fr M : : : e £ 2" „ ►- o a C3*J o aj B tji S3fl§g.a THE world's library CONGRESS. 795 Executive Department, general superyision, inoludino building, finances, etc. By F. M. Crunden, St. Louis Public Library. After providing for a. treatise, "De omnibus rebus," President Dewey lias asked me to write a supplement, " De quibusdam aliis." After dis- tributing the various departments of library management for special treatment, be has assigned to me the "Executive dejpartment," which necessarily touches on all the special assignments, for tliere is no ques- tion in which the executive head of a library is not interested, none on which he ought not to have an influential, if not, indeed, a deciding, voice. The subheading " General supervision, including buildings, finances, etc.," does little or nothing to restrict or define, but rather confirms the interpretation I am compelled to give to my assignment. /^I begin with this preface in order to forestall possible criticism for trenching on the territory of other contributors. I shall try to deal with t^e special topics assigned to others in a tangential manner, avoiding the details that come within the scope of their papers. But it is mani- festly impossible to treat of the executive department as an abstraction. It must be dealt with concretely, with application to and exemplification from the various departments of library administration. Again, writers are instructed to "aim not so much to contribute new material as to present a judicial digest of previous articles, papers, discussions, and specially of experience." 'Sow, in the 17 volumes of the Library Journal, the United States Eeport on Libraries, Library Chronicle, Library Notes, and other r.epositories of biblio thecal informa- tion there is more to be found on any one of its particular applications than on the general subject assigned to mej and on broad principles there is a fairly unanimous agreement among well-informed librarians. It is when we come to particulars that differences arise. Therefore I can not well follow the instruction to divide this paper into two parts— the first stating what is generally accepted, the second the points that are still under discussion. I shall endeavor to cull from the literature of library economy the utterances of other librarians regarding the powers, duties, and responsibilities of the executive, and to illustrate and enforce these from my own experience, calling attention as I go along to questions still under debate and presenting my own views separately from the digest of other opinions. The whole subject may be summed up in Mr. Perkins's receipt for' making town libraries successful: Businesslike management is tbe -wholo story. A public library for public use sbould be managed not only as a, literary institu- tion, but also as a business concern. Tbe business department of educa,tional and literary institutions is too often overlooked or undervalued. Yet it is vain to expect IF. B. Perkins: "How to make town libra.ries successful." (U. S. Eept. on Pub lie Libraries, p. 419). 796 EDUCATION REPOKT, 1892-93. " the solid and permanent success of such institutions without good business manage- ment. Perhaps this truth may not be so fully recognized in the case of libraries as in that of other institutions for mental improvement; but those who are familiar with the inside history of great charities and missionary and educational enter- prises — Bible and tract societies, for instance — know very well that neither faith nor works (in the religious sense of the words) would keep them going very long without accurate bookkeeping, regular hours, and efficient business supervision. The success of any industrial enterprise depends on its executive head. A business man who doesn't know an acid from an alkali or a can from a cogwheel will run a factory successfully, while a mechanic, who can construct and control the machinery, or who invented the details of the manufacturing processes, will soon become bankrupt. Of this the times give frequent proof. What, then, is "businesslike management?" It is that conduct of affairs that most thoroughly accomplishes the purpose of those engaged in business, viz, the making of money. This final object is achieved through the intermediate aim of pleasing and serying the public, which is the final purpose of a library. How does the business man proceed? He first considers the wants of the community in which he intend* to establish his business; he would not start the same kind of factory or store in Leadville or Deadwood as in Kew York City. He then selects a location. This must be adapted to the kind of business. If it is to depend for success on the general public (and such must be taken for my analogy), the store must be central and easy of access; and, of course, it will be handsomely fitted and supplied with the best fixtures for the display of goods and the latest appliances to facilitate work and render prompt service to patrouS. He stocks his store with goods that peoj)le want, not those he thinks they ought to want; but having once established himself, it will be his pleasure, and he can make it his profit, to elevate the tastes of his customers and create a demand for higher grades of goods. It seems unnecessary to add that he will buy his goods in the cheapest market, always, however, giving preference to local dealers on even terms. This not so much on sentimental grounds as for valid business reasons. He mast, of course, hire clerks and salesmen, increasing the number as his business enlarges. At first he will necessarily attend to every detail, and jnay have to do much routine work himself. He will, how- ever, do as little bookkeeping and office work as possible, and seek to know and be known by his customers. While they are few he may know and, at times, serve them all, making each feel that his wishes are a special concern, and that anything wanted will be obtained if not in stock. This will make the store very popular, and it will soon be so thronged with customers that the head of the house can do no more than see that they are waited on by polite and efiQcient clerks. He will find more and more of his time occupied with the larger affairs of the grow- ing business, and he will be compelled to leave more and more of the details to his assistants. By this time he will have trained someone THE world's library CONGRESS. 797 ■who can act as his lieutenant to the satisfaction of the public and his other employees, but he will never be so occupied in devising schemes for the expansion of the business that he will not bo entirely approach- able to customers and ready to assist all who wish to consult him as an expert, even though it may be regarding a trivial matter which a junior clerk is quite competent to attend to. He will organize his force, giv- ing to competent persons the supervision of departments, and himself supervising all. He will learn sooner or later that cheap labor is not profitable, and will pay adequate salaries to trained and trustworthy employees. It goes without saying that he will not hire incompetent people to oblige a friend or to help his political party. , "He will see that transactions in every department are accurately recorded and posted up to date, so that a statement can be had at any time on short notice. He will adopt the plan of keeping accounts that is at once, in his opinion, the simplest and surest, and that will give the greatest amount of information regarding goods and customers. He will, of course, have methods for ascertaining the wants of his custom- e];s, and will place before them and the public the latest articles in his line ; and, as I have said before, he will endeavor to create a demand for the higher grades of goods. To complete the comparison, we must supi)ose that the business is to be established by a board of directors representing a large number of stockholders. We must further suppose that the directors are all so absorbed in their private affairs that they can give very little time to the business of the corporation. What would they do ? They would first secure the services of an expert who was also a good executive and business manager; and this manager, being intrusted with full power, would proceed as I have indicated. It is unnecessary to carry the analogy further; and it could hardly be made exact on all points because of the different end in view. What then is the purpose of a public library? "To serve the pub- lic," ' i. e., to supply it with wholesome and instructive literature; or, as our motto puts it, " The best reading for the largest number at the least cost." What are the means necessary to secure this desired end? First and foremost is the appointment of a good librarian, who should be chosen for executive rather than scholarly qualities.^ This is essen- tial to obtaining the other elements of success, which are — 1. A convenient location, accessible from all parts of the city. The 'See address of President S: S. Green, San Fran. Conf., Lib. J., 16: c. 1. ^The ideal executive head of a large public library shonld have the qualifications of both librarian and superintendent. (S : S. Green's paper on "Trustees and Libra- rians," at Fabyan House Conference, L. J., 15: c. 24.) The same energy, industry, and tact, to say nothing of experience, which insure success in other vocations are quite as requisite in a librarian as book knowledge, A mere bookworm in charge of a public library is an incubus and a nuisance. (W: F: Poole, "Organization and Arrangement of Public Libraries." U. S. Spec. Repta. on Public Libraries, p. 476.) 798 EDUCATION EEPORT, 1892-93. general opinion is that it should not be on a thoroughfare; but this would hardly apply to libraries in the top stories of tall buildings. For a city of any size, branches or delivery stations are essential. Which should, be chosen depends on circumstances. (See Gr. W. Cole's article on " Branches and deliveries," p. 709. ) 2. The building should be fireproof, commodious, and so arranged as to offer the greatest accommodations to the public at the least cost for administration. 3. The rooms should be kept clean and orderly, so as to be inviting to ladies and young girls, and to the most fastidious. 4. Such an air of courtesy and cordiality should pervade the place, accompanied by so little formality, that the most difQdent laboring man will feel that he is welcome and that the resources of the library are at his command. 5. The revenues of the institution should be so managed as to go as far as possible. (a) Books, periodicals, binding, furniture, and supplies of every kind should be bought on the most favorable terms. (Here the executive in a large library may easily save or waste a sum equal to his salary.) (6) The staff should be so organized as to give the greatest service at the least outlay. (c) There should be an accurate but simple system of accounts with proper checks on receipts and expenditures. 6. Books should be selected judiciously, with reference to the client- age and aims of the library; readers should be encouraged to make known their wants, and these should be promptly supplied. It is gen- erally agreed that in a public library purchases should include the literature of entertainment as well as information. This is stDl to some degree a mooted question.' It will, I think, be generally con- ceded that a public library should supply the best new books in all lines. 7. What seems the oest system of Classification and shelf arrange- ment in view of the peculiar conditions of the library should be adopted; and catalogs, card and printed, class lists, reference lists, and other aids and guides should be supplied according to the library's means. The particular scope and purpose of the library and its finan- cial limitations being determined by the directors, the decision of all these details should rest largely with the executive. 8. A charging system ^should be chosen that is best adapted to the conditions. In a library of large circulation the system chosen should be that which combines highest speed with greatest accuracy while giving the most important statistics. (a) A minute when a crowd is waiting is more to be considered than five minutes at another time; therefore, choose a plan that involves ' For full discussion see Miss Coe's article. See Misa Plummer's article. THE world's library CONGRESS. 799 the shortest entries while the borrower is waiting, though these may afterwards have to be supplemented by additional records. (b) Don't let your choice be influenced by the fact that a system furnishes statistics which yon don't want. Ordinarily one doesn't care to pay extra for a watch that strikes the quarter hours. Next to accuracy and speed, the chief desideratum is a minimum of require- ments from the borrower. There should be as little formality as is consistent with the greatest good of the greatest number. This should be the test and touchstone on all questions, 9. The greatest freedom of access to shelves consistent with good order and safety to books. All wiD agree to this, though there may be wide difference in the interpretation of the qualifying phrase. The trend of opinion is undoubtedly in the direction of greater freedom even at risk of some loss and eonfusion. 10. Every facility of obtaining information and every inducement to study. 11. Close connection should be formed with schools, public and pri- vate, and with study clubs and classes; ,and the library should, when practicable, take the initiative in establishing university extension courses and promoting other agencies for encouraging intellectual activity. 13. Finally, and to sum up, every effort should be made to keep the institution before the public, to enlist all elements in its suijport, to indiice all classes to use it. Its facilities for furnishing information should be so abundant that the student will come from far to seek its aid; its rooms should be so attractive and its supply of books so ample that the rich can not do better than use it; and its cordial welcome and freedom from oppressive forms should be such as to dispel the poor man's doubt, distrust, and mingled pride and diffidence, and make him feel that the library is his and his children's and their heirs' forever. To what degree these requirements are fulfilled must depend chiefly on the executive head of the institution. President Melvil .Dewey (Library Notes, vol. 1. p. 45), after enumerating the various factors of successful administration, says: But the great element of success iS' tlio earnest moving spirit wliicJi supplies to tlie institution its life. Tliis should be the lihrariau, though often the person -who bears that name is little more than a clerk, and. the real librarian is an active trustee or committee. Such librarian will shape the other factors very largely. There is, in short, as 1 stated in the beginning, notbing so small or so trivial asiiotto require attention from the executive; and there is nothing in the highest concerns of the institution, its finances, and its general policy beyond his proper consideration and influence. It gen- erally devolves on the executive to be the motive power as well as the guiding hand, the engine as well as the pilot. Certainly all will agree that a good executive will accomplish more with a poor building in a bad location and other drawbacks than an inefQcient executive with all conditions in his favor. 800 I quote tliis significant sentence from the last report of the trustees of the Los Angeles Public Library: "The management of the library, which has been intrusted entirely to the librarian, has given great sat- isfaction to the board and, we believe, also to the public." The foregoing views as to the importance of the executive embody a general consensus of opinion on the subject. The powers and duties of the librarian as executive being correlated with those of trustees, to particularize further would encroach on the territory of another con- tributor. I give a summary of the replies of 37 librarians to the ques- tions: "Do the board and its committees always consult you before deciding on (a) questions of general policy; (&) methods of administra- tion 1" Twenty-two reply "yes " to both questions ; of the remainder the great majority answer "usually" or "nearly always " to both questions; while a few say "no" or "generally" to the first and "yes** to the second. The general tenor of the remarks on the questions is indicated by the following quotations: Can not imagine any sane board doing otlierwise. Librarian sliould be given greatest possible latitude as to conduct of library in all its affairs. In my opinion no administration can bo a success unless tbe librarian or chief officer is consulted in all matters pertaining to the management. Such an understanding would seem to be indispensable to a satisfactory adminis- tration of the library. I should be sorry to be the executive officer of any board which did not have con- fidence enough in mo to ascertain my opinion before taking action. In a majority of cases the initiative is naturally taken by the librarian. Of the requirements of a successful administration above enumerated, a number are the special subjects of chapters in this manual; and some others call for no elaboration or argument. Buildings. — From views heretofore expressed and generally con- curred in, I cull these bits of advice to communities contemplating a public library building: Appoint your librarian before you do anything about a building, and having obtained a competent officer leave the planning and furnishing of the library largely to him. Don't be in a hurry to build. As a rule it is better to start in tem- porary quarters and let your building fund accumulate, while directors and librarian gain experience, and the needs of the library become more definite. It will also give the people the benefit of the library sooner. When you do build make a liberal allowance for growth. There should be provided in libraries that do not allow free access to shelves a space near the issue counter where new books or collections of best books may be displayed and freely handled by visitors, a sort of "browsing corner." In planning a library a cheerful spot should be set aside as a lunch room, with arrangements for boiling water. THE world's library CONGRESS. 801 Tho supervision of tlie buildiug, of course, devolves on the librarian as executive. He may properly depute this to an assistant; and in a. large library there should be an intelligent and responsible head janitor to obviate the necessity of anything more than the most general over- sight. The head of the library should, however, test all supervision. Finances. — In this department there is, and may well be, a wide divergence in the organization of libraries. In a great majority the librarian is not burdened with financial responsibilities. Out of 37 prominent libraries, 27 report that the finances and financial records are in charge of some one who is not an employee of the library. In 3 the books are kept by the librarian, in 6 by an assistant. This kind of bookkeeping is not profitable employment for a librarian. As a rule, he is a poor business man who has time to keep his own books. In 12 libraries the librarian acts as cashier, in 24 he does not. Four- teen libraries have definite appropriations, ranging from $20 to $500, to a contingent fund; 14 use desk receipts as a contingent fund; 9 have no contingent fund. In 6 there is a limit to bills payable from the contingent fund; in 24 it is left to the librarian's discretion; 7 do not pay any bills. A librarian should have a contingent fund. It seems to make little difiereuce, however, whether the fund consists of the petty cash receipts or a special appropriation. I should favor tho latter, and whether there is a limit for bills payable from this fund or not, the librarian should, as a majority report they do, use it sparingly and strictly for the purpose indicated by its name. Eeceipts or expenditures from this fund should, of course, be examined by the auditing committee. The finance department might well be made the subject of a separate paper. It is impracticable here to go into details, and it seems unnec- essary to dwell on the necessity of regular monthly audits and the indorsement of vouchers- by the proper officers. In the St. Louis Pub- lic Library each voucher bears three signatures, that of the chairman of the committee authorizing the expenditure, the chairman of the finance committee, and the librarian's certification to the correctness of the bill. Each check is signed by president, treasurer, and librarian. Siinilar rules are, I believe, observed in most libraries. In the great majority there seems to be a reasonable check against dishonesty on the part of the librarian, though several librarians confess that too much confidence is placed in their probity. The ultimate safeguard is the librarian's honesty; but for the protection of both trustees and librarian I venture to offer these suggestions: 1. The librarian who has financial responsibility should be under bond. The best bond is that of a trust company, and the library should pay for it. „, , 2. The chief opportunity for dishonesty is in the duplication of book bill's This can be prevented, or, at least, made more difficult, by plac- ing the accession number opposite each entry in the invoice. Whether ED 93 51 802 EBUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. the additional safeguard thus seeiired is worth the cost in time is for each board to determine. 3. The time of the librarian is saved for more valuable work and an additional check is secured by having everything relating to the accounts, including the making out of vouchers, done by assistants, the work being, of course, supervised by the librarian. Fines.' — This subject is well stimmed up by Mr. ITtley as follows: The maiu thing is to seo that fines are impartially collected and faithfully reported. To this cud the matter is, so far as practicable, iilaced in the hands of ono assistant. No system can ho devised -svluch will not, in the last analysis, depend on the honesty of the individual charged with its enforcement. At least, any eystem of x>erfcct eheck is too cnmhrous and costs more than it is worth. As Mr. Brett puts it, " the thing essential to the eolleetion of fines without friction is absolute fairness." My early experience gives strong confirmation of this. By observing the rule of impartiality (at the same time giving attention to the cor- rectness of returns) the receipts in the St. Louis Public library were, doubled iu a short time, while the friction was xednced to about one- twentieth part. We now take in $1,000 a year with much less dissatis- faction than was formerly manifested over the collection of $300. The librarian should never cease striving to impress members with a, sense of the impartiality of his administration in every respect; and he should never rest till he feels that every cent collected is honestly reported. While looking after the revenxies and the financial records, if they are intrusted to him, the librarian should keep a sharp eye on expend- itures and. on waste. His judgment and business ability and watchful- ness may easily save his salary. In the largest libraries the difference between good and bad organization of the staff will amount to thousamls of dollars ; and with the meager funds that most libraries have, it is nec- essary for the librarian to see that every doUar is expended to the great- est advantage. Ho must first consider the direction in which money can be spent with greatest benefit to the institution, and then expend it in accordance with business methods. It depends on his tact and judgment whether the library obtains articles above or below market rates. It is notorious that public institutions pay higher prices for goods than private buyers. Whenever possible, competitive bids should be secured from reputable houses; and more than ordinary care should be taken to see that contracts are fulfilled and no overcharge made. It is commonly assumed that bills to a public institution will not be as sharply scanned as they would be by a business house. When object- ing to an overcharge I have had the question put bluntly: "What difierence does it make to you?" It is quite feasible for the librarian to utilize his acquaintance and influence among the best class of busi- ' On collection and accounting for fines, teo symposium in Library Journal, 16: 103-105, 137-173. THE world's library CONGRESS. 803 iiess kouses to obtain special discounts for the library. Here lie will find the aid of his trustees extremely yalnable; and both trustees and librarian should avail themselves of expert advice, which can easily be obtained. They will find everyone ready to give counsel and assistance to an institutioii which, more than any other, serves the whole public. Selecting and buying books.— In most libraries the selection of books is left practically to the librarian,' and constitutes a very impor- tant duty. While it is primarily a literary function, it has a direct bearing on the management of the finances, for a dollar spent for one book is unavailable for another that may be more useful 5 and of two books equally desirable one may be bought for half the cost of the other. The following quotations represent the consensus of opinion among librarians as to where the power and responsibility of securing books should be lodged. In his inaugural address as president of the L. A. TJ. K., before referred to, Mr. J. Winter Jones says: Tlie safest, and tliereforo the best, conrse is to bo very careful in the choice of a librarian, and then leave the selection of books to him, subject, of course, to the control of the commLttoe of management wherever the exercise of that control may be deemed advisable. In an article on "Selection and selectors of hooks" {L. j. 2: 152), James M. Anderson, assistant librarian. University of St. Andrews, sums up with these two conclusions : 1. That books should be selected with strict reference to the province and needs of the library and to the character of its readers, and — 2. That books should be selected by the librarian, or by a standing committee in conjunction with the librarian. His reasons for the second statement are that only the librarian can know the present contents of the library and the demands on it, and that committees change from year to year and the library would not grow symmetrically if the selection of books were left to them. In amplification of number 1 — it is better to have 10 copies of a book that is in demand than 1 copy of that and 9 other books that no one wants. Duplicate the best books liberally. "Better 10 copies of Tennyson than 1 of Tennyson and 1 each of nine rhymesters." The fundamental rule never to be lost sight of is, find out what books your patrons want and buy these first. In determining what books should be added to special departments valuable aid may be obtained from experts. /Whether a library's book fund is large or small, it is important that it bo judiciously expended. Knowledge and watchfulness will make $4,000 go as far as $5,000 in less skillful hands. For fuller treatment of the subject by experts, I refer again to Dr. Poole's article in the United States Eeport, and to Mr. C. A. Nelson's " Selection and pur- chase of books" {Jy.j. 12: 155), also to the symposium on the selecting I So reported by 29 Itbrariaiis out of 37. 804 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. and buying books {L. j. 14 : 336, 372). From these sources, chiefly from the first two, is condensed the following summary of directions, repre- senting a general, though not unanimous, consensus of opinion: 1. Buy both books and periodicals from a local dealer unless there is a decided difference in j)rices. 2. Don't be tempted by a larger discount to give orders to irrespon- sible persons. 3. Buy as much as j)ossiblo from one house, so as to make your orders of consequence and thus secure better terms. 4. Utilize competition. A library should secure from 25 to 35 per cent discount. 5. Keep informed. Examine secondhand lists and auction cata- logs and look out constantly for bargains. 6. Do not buy ordinary subscription books or books on the instal- ment plan. 7. Don't anticipate revenues, and don't spend all your money at once. If you do you will miss many a bargain and have to go without books that are needed more than those you have bought. 8. Buy good but not expensive editions. Avoid flimsy paper and fine or blurred print. Most large libraries buy chiefly through agents.' This practice is almost universal for foreign books. Mr. J. Winter Jones says : The cmijloyment of agents for tlie ijurchase of l)ooks is not always the most eco- nomical mode of procedure, excepting in the case of purchases at auctions, or iu foreign countries where the transactions are largo and extend over several countries. The division on the minor question whether it is better to buy books in cloth or paper covers is probably fairly represented by returns from 37 libraries, 27 of which prefer cloth and 10 paper or-sheets. The points in favor of cloth are that the books are ready for immediate use, and that a cloth, binding marks the volume as a new book. 'The last argu- ment, of course, has no weight with libraries that cover their books; but iu others it is well worth consideration. Mr. Greenwood^ says: There is absolutely no economy in buying 2s. novels in sheets for Is. 4d. and having them bound in leather for, say, Is. 4d. extra, making the first cost of the books 2s. 8d. It is much cheaper in the end and more judicious to take the wear out of the original binding oven though it be only paper board.s, as there is always a risk of books being iu demand, and the cost of binding them is thrown away, to say nothing of the dis- proportionate charge for binding thrown on the early years of the library. I would emphasize the "Don't" regarding the purchase of subscrip- tion books from agents, especially in parts. Exception, of course, may be made iu favor of works like the Century and Murray's dictionaries. There are few subscription books that can not be obtained through 'Out of 37 librarians reporting, 24, including all the larger institutions, favor employing agents. '^Thomas Greenwood, Public libraries, p. 379. THE world's library CONGRESS. 805 regular trade channels, and very few indeed that can not be bought far below the subscription price by waiting a little whUe. Bargains maybe obtained from secondhand dealers; but as a rule they know the value of books and put prices but little below a good library discount. The best field for bargains is the auction room, where the secondhand dealers replenish their stocks. A good rule is not to buy any old books (unless immediately needed) except at a bargain. Kemember always that any one of 100 or 1,000 or perhaps 10,000 books is needed by you as much as any other. Buy the one or the ten, that you can obtain at one-half to one- tenth price. Yet here a word of caution should be given to the zealous and con- scientious librarian. In his anxiety to make the most of his book fund he may save $10 in money at the expense of $20 worth of time. Judg- ment must decide what is true and what false economy. Books sent to newspapers for review may often be obtained at a very liberal discount. ., i Libraries in the same city should avoid duplicating expensive works. Libraries with small means should not spend on a single costly work of interest to few— and seldom used by them— a sum that would buy 20, or perhaps 100, volumes that would be in constant and profitable use by many. All the judgment and care that can be given to the finances of a library with a view to securing as large a sum as possible for books can not prevent the proportionate increase of other expenditures. Insur- ance, for example, may be doubled or trebled in a few years; it costs more to keep a large building clean than a small one; and with the growth and expansion of the library and its work there is necessarily a constant increase in the salary roll. Therefore, the ratio of expenditure for books has no significance unless all the circumstances are known.^ Economics.— Besides the larger savings that judgment and care may effect in the chief items of expenditure, there are numberless little economies which in the course of a year may reach a considerable aggregate. There is no economy in poor tools and appliances. In busi- ness it is often the latest machinery that makes the margin of profit; but rough notes may be made and figuring done on a scratch block or waste paper as well as on fine note paper. Even such intelligent and conscientious persons as librarians are sometimes wasteful. It is the executive's duty to look after the pence as well as the pounds, remem- bering that every dollar saved means another book. Great corporations do not scorn the income from office waste baskets. Binding^ ofi"ers an excellent field for exercise of judgment and oversight in the interest of economy. 'Reports from about 30 libraries give 3^ to 80 per cent for books. Tlie last is from a library recently establiabecl. Omitting tbat, the average is a little above 25 per cent. ^Por technical points see D. V. E. Johnston's article on binding. 806 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. , In every detail it depends on the executive's judgment whetber money and time (which is money) shall be wasted on unnecessary things or things of minor importance. The collating and covering of all books are illustrations. Both are unnecessary and wasteful. The latter ia especially unwise as well as wasteful, and is, I am glad to say, adhered to by but few libraries. In many other details the decision must depend on circumstances, of which the librarian should be the best judge. Here, as elsewhere, the librarian should look sharply about him at all times and cultivate that sixth sense that is developed in tlio schoolmaster of seeing anything that is wrong. In a large library he can not give constant supervision to all details; but he should learn the art of quick and effective sampling. Executive and staff. — There is no more important function of the executive than that involved iii his relation to his staff. It is, indeed, thft very sum and center of the executive department, for all orders of the*oard, as well as all action lying within the librarian's initiative, must be executed through assistants; and the effective organization and oversight of his staff is, therefore, the prime duty of the librarian as executive officer. But little has been heretofore published on the subject. The one point on which librarians are unanimous and on which all disinterested trustees must agree is that the choice of assist- ants should be left practically in the hands of the librarian, and that appointments and promotions should be on the basis of civil-service reform. As the resolution adopted at the Buffalo conference puts it: Efficiency in liljrary administration can best be obtained tlirougli the application of tlio cardinal principles of an enlightened civil serriee, viz, tlie absolnte exclnsion of all political and i)ersonal influence, appointment for definitely ascertained fitness, promotion for merit, and retention during good behavior. In 7 libraries out of 37 reporting, the appointment of assistants is left entirely to the librarian ; in 8 they are practically appointed by the librarian; in 18 the librarian suggests and the board appoints; in 2 the board appoints without consulting the librarian. To this num- ber, I presume, may be added 2 that do not answer the question, and I do not wonder at unwillingness to confess so humiliating a fact. Appoint- ments should be left, not absolutely, but practically, to the librarian. The absolute power may be a burdensome and dangerous responsibility for a librarian even when backed by civil-service rules. For what I regard as the best plan for securing cfBcient assistants I refer to Miss Kelso's explanation of her apprentice system. Much of the success of a library, ae of a business house, depends on the effective organization of the staff. But this, with the distribution of duties and the mooted questions of specialization versus all-round knowledge and training, and division of labor by kinds of work versus division by departments, and all other details come within the scope of Mr. Hill's article (p. 747). In passing I recommend careful reading of Miss Edith Clarke's article on "Departmental libraries" (L. j. 16: 264), which, I am inclined to think, will form the next stage in the THE WORLD S LIBRARY CONGRESS. 807 evolution of library organization. Thus far the process has been divi- sion along lines of work, a process of analysis which may be succeeded by a new synthesis as set forth by Miss Clarke. I venture a few general observations from my own experience and thought. In a library, as in a school system, everything depends on effective supervision. Wliatever plan of organization is adopted, it should pro- vide for thorough supervision through different grades up to the execu- tive head. This is one of the principal elements of success in "running a hotel," which is, not unadvisedly, taken as the sign and synonym of exccntive ability. The librarian should allow his assistants to work in their own way unless he can show that it is a decidedly inferior way. Give general directions to a messenger and see whether he has ingenuity enough to work out the details; consult with the assistant who is to have immedi- ate charge of a piece of work, or let him devise a plan and submit it to yon for approval or amendment. Everyone can work best in his own way, and will take more interest in the execution of a plan he has originated or assisted in preparing. The librarian should take a personal interest in his assistants down to the youngest page. He should encourage them in self-improvement; he should fairly and favorably represent them to the trustees, securing, so far as possible, their due in hours, opportunities, and salaries. It also goes without saying that he should stand between his assistants and tmfounded complaints or unreasonable criticism from the public. He should constantly consult with heads of departments and more or' less frequently have general meetings for instruction and discussion. Librarian as secretary of the board." — Service as its secretary brings the librarian into closer relations with the governing board and I think strengthens his authority as execxitive. Keturns from 37 libra- ries show 15 in which the librarian acts as secretary and 22 in which he does not; 17 think the librarian should; 13 think not; 3 are doubtful, and 4 give no answer. One librarian who is not secretary thinks such an arrangement " most desirable," adding that the relations of boards and librarians are not sufficiently cordial and confidential. In a large library it is easy for the librarian to allow his whole time and energy to be absorbed by the details of his duties as executive to the neglect of the literary or librarian's side of his work. He should strive against this. He should not wholly sink the librarian in the director. He should not permit his executive duties to deprive him of all opportunity to act as literary and educational adviser to the public. He should spare some time and strength for reading and study for his own mental growth. This caution may be unnecessary. Up to recent years the great danger has been of the opposite extreme. The proper adjustment depends on circumstances and calls for the 1 Seo also F. P. Hill's article, p. 747. 808 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. exercise of judgment. In the same library the ratio will vary at differ- ent periods. The business man who keeps his books himself is likely to lose thereby three times the salary of a bookkeeper. Colonel Higginson says: "The librarian should not have too much to do. If he does he can not look over the whole ground." Having so organized his staff as to make his work chiefly that of supervision he will have time to attend to the larger interests of the library, includ- ing the comparative study of methods. lu making choice of methods and machinery he must keep in view the end and aim of the library, which is always and everywhere to serve the public — its public. He should seek methods that have been tried and proved efficient under similar circumstances, remembering that "an ounce of Vineland is bet- ter than a pound of cosmography." He should never lose sight of fundamental principles, which as President W. I. Fletcher said in his address at Lakewood [L.j. 14: 155), will be found "very largely along the lines of simplicity and tried eifectiveness rather than along those of elaborateness and theoretically exact arrangement of details." He should be on his guard "against the twin irrationalities of an undae reverence for the ancient and an overweening ardor for novelties." Mr. J. "Winter Jones says: Tho points to be aimed at in botli lending and reference libraries are rapidity and accuracy of service hnd record. To effect this everything » » » should bo as simple as possible. It does not necessarily follow that a method or system -which is adapted to one library is best for all. There are no qvialities which will supplement even a little _ technical knowledge so efficiently as good judgment and practical common sense." These last six words form an excellent summary of what is required in the executive department. The scope and meaning of "common sense" as applied to library management is fully and admirably shown in the address of President 0. A. Cutter at the St. Louis conference. I began marking passages for quotation, but found the markings so . numerous that I must content myself with an urgent recommendation of the address as a summary of sound doctrine. Like a certain cook- book that a housekeeper of forty years' experience pronounces the best she has ever seen, it deals not with particular recipes but with the fun- damental principles that must underlie all library management. It is not novices alone that may j)roflt by occasionally rereading it. This paper has had the public library in view ; but general princi- ples are the same, and modifications will be obvious. The funds of the library may be so inadequate that a competent librarian can not be employed. The library must then depend on the volunteer work of trustees, one of whom, or a committee of whom, becomes tho real executive. But to realize its highest possibilities a library should have a competent librarian as its executive head, and with the largest powers and responsibilities, able to say in his province, "AutCffisar aut nullus." 1 AV : r : Poole, in United States Report, 1876. THE world's library CONGRESS. 809 It should be the aim of the executive to make his library approxi- mate as nearly as possible to Mr. Ford's test of the perfect library (L.j. 18: 179), where "a verbal '1 waut ,' is followed by an instant delivery of fhe book"; and, as the writer said in a former paper/ "Success will depend less on choice of methods than on vigor and thoroughness of execution. 'For forms of government lot fools contest; Whate'er is l)est administered is best.'" REFERENCES. The best compendium of directions for the organization and management of public libraries is the article by Dr. Poolo in the United States Special Report on Public Litoaries. See also — Clarke, Edith E. " Departmental libraries.'' i. J. 16: 264. Crandall, Mary J. " Duties of a library to its staff." L.j. 16: 105. Crunden, F: M. "Business methods in library management." L.j. 12: 335. Cutter, C. A. President's address at St. Louis conference. L.j. li: 147. Fletcher, W : 1. President's address at Lakewood conference. L.j. 11: u. 1. " Some library superstitions." St. Louis conference. Z. _;. 14: 155. Ford, P. L. " Library from reader's point of view.'' L. j. 18 : 179. Green, S: S. " Personal relations between librarians and readers." T^.j.l: 74. ■' Trustees and librarians." L.j. 15: c. 24. "Relation of librarian to book committee." L.j. 15: c. 116, 117. Fabyan confei-ence. Greenwood, Thomas. " Public libraries." Higginson, Colonel. " The Free Public Library," L.j. 13 : 87 and "Women and Men." "Access to the shelves." L. j. 16 : 268. Hosmer, J. K. "Browsing." Fabyan conference. L.j.lo: c. 33. Jones, J. Winter. Address as President of L. A. U. K. L.j. 1: 379. Nelson, C : A. " Choosing and buying of books." L. j. 12 : 155. Pendleton, A. M. " How to start libraries." L. j. 1 : 161. Perkins, F. B. " How to make town libraries successful." U. S. report. "Fines." Symposium, i. j. 16 : 103-5, 137, 170-73. "How we choose and buy books.'' Symposium, i. j. 14 : 336, 372. Accession Department. By Gardner Maynard Jones, Librarian, Salem Public Librarj', Salem, Mass. [The writer has not thought it necessary to give the authority for each statement. The annexed bibliography gives fuller information.'] Scope. — The accession department includes selection, buying, and accessioning of books — that is, the business side of the formation of the library. Who shall select books? — Pinal authority should rest with the full board of trustees, which generally acts through a book committee. This should be composed of the members most familiar with literature but of catholic tastes, so as not to run to hobbies. But as the average 'Report on aids and guides at Milwaukee conference, 1886, L.j. 11: 309-30. 2 One of the fullest discussions at Chicago was on this paper, and the proceedings should be read witli it as supplemental. 810 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. committee can not give the proper time and tbonglit to tliis wjork, the choice should be left practically to the librarian, -who best knows the demands and needs of readers. The committee should work in har- mony with him, check any tendency to whims, determine the general iwlicy ; and all purchases, unusual either in character or cost, should be referred to them. If iiromptness in adding new books is desired, the librarian should have authority to buy, Avithiu certain limits, between board meetings. In large libraries the best selection is secured by cooperation of per- sons iu charge of special departments; in college libraries, by professors. Lists of books may often be submitted to si>ecialists for criticism and suggestion. Readers should be requested to suggest books, either in a book or on slips provided for the purpose, and such books should be bought so far as ijracticable. If one reader cares enough for a book to ask for it, others may read it. By this method, the library is kept well in touch with readers. Selection of books. — The Library of Congress, the British Museum, and the other great national libraries collect, rather than select, books. They aim to be complete in all departments. Special libraries, such as that of the Surgeon-General's Office at Washington, endeavor to obtain every publication in their special line. Nearly all libraries, however, are limited in various ways, and are obliged to select carefully from the vast field of literature. The character of the library largely determines the character of pur- chases. A college library buys a different class of books from a free public library, and an agricultural library differs in its needs from a theological seminary. College libraries and libraries of historical and scientific societies may bo considered as special libraries (often, how- ever, having several specialties), and they must buy with this in view. What follows applies particularly to general libraries, both public and subscription, though much will also be useful to special libraries. Fiction buying is not considered, as this belongs to another paper. The principal factors in selecting books are the character of readers, the greatest good of the greatest number, and the amount of available funds. The smaller the funds the more difficult is the selection. The kind of readers should first bo considered. A manutactariug town needs books on its special industries; a seaport, those on the ocean, ships, fisheries; a commercial city, those on commerce, banking, finance, political economy; a farming village, those on agriculture and domestic animals. A literary community requires a larger proportion of books on litera,ry, historical, and art subjects. If the place contains readers of foreign languages, books should be bought for them, remem- bering, however, that in our country all should learn English. Pop- ular amusements should be catered to by buying books on hunting, fishing, the theater, baseball, card games, etc. It is also necessary to THE world's lilBBARY C0N6RESS. 811 sapplemeBt the courses of instruction in the public schools and higher institutions of learning, not forgetting public museums, picture gal- leries, etc. If there are literary or scientific clubs, books should be bought to meet their needs. Children should be encouraged to read good books by buying interesting, welt written, and accurate boobs of history, science, and literature, as well as good fiction. Local interest should be fostered by buying freely books on local history and science, and those by local authors. In short, the library should be the intel- lectual center of the place, ever striving to keep in advance of its read- ers, and, so far as it properly can, huyrng what the people demand. 5]his principle leads to avoiding works not wanted, such as those in iinused foreign languages. The librarian should keep track of coming events, and see that the library is provided with the books for which there is sxtre to be a faturo demand. He should avoid personal hobbies and be impartial on all controversial questions. Manifestly the paroportion. of subjects must vary greatly in different libraries. The following is the scale adopted for the A, L. A. model library of 5,000 volumes at Chicago, according to the Dewey classifica- tion: GeneTal works , 100 PhHesopliy , IC© Keligion..- - 300 Soeiology- - — 300 Philology 50 Science - 400 ITsefnl arts 303 Fine arts 20O LiteratuTe - - 60* Bi&graxjliy . - — - 500 History - - - - - 650 Travels - 500 Fiction 1,600 Total - 5,000 In Bbraries of 10,000, 2&,0mj or 50,000 volumes, respectively, the proportions would differ. If means are small, expensive works should not be bought when there are good cheaper ones covering the same field. A library with an income of only $100 a yeiir for books can nob afford to spend $75 upon the Century Dictionary; neither would it buy Nicolay and Hay's Life of Lincoln. The greatest good of the greatest number demands that the money be spent for an assortment of books of more moderate cost aod upon a variety of subjects. This rule holds good for all libraries, for n.one are so situated that they can buy everything. It ia doubtful if the taxpayers' money should be expended on such little-, used luxuries as first editions of Shakspere or of the Columbus letter. Popular circulating libraries should prefer good editions in one vol- ume to those in fcwo or more volumes. Many readers never get beyond . the first volume. 812 It is economy to buy good editions, not necessarily the most expen- sive, but those well edited, well printed on good paper, in good-sized type, are as desirable for public as for private libraries. The form of the book is an education in itself, and experience shows that good books, well bound, are better cared for than poor ones, even by tbe uneducated reader. Eeference books and those on science and useful arts should always be in the latest editions. Earlier editions have their historical value, but should be left to the special libraries. Books on zoology, geology, and botany should be by American iu preference to foreign authors, unless the subject is treated from a general standpoint or the author is a leader iu thought. It is often a question how far the moderate-sized public library should buy special books. In general it may be said, " Do not buy the tools for trades." Draw the line between the science of law and law as a trade. It must also be remembered that the professions are more independ- ent of the public library than the trades. Buy books for the mechanic rather than for the capitalist. The following specialties should gen- erally be avoided : School text-books, sectarian books, partisan politi- cal books, works in foreign and classical languages (this depends on local conditions, however), early English literature of only limited inter- est, technical treatises on law, medicine, and theology, genealogies (except of local families), and antiquated books, such as old histories, chemistries, etc. Col. T. W. Higginson's "Plau for the selection of books," a report prepared for the trustees of the Cambridge public library, is a careful study of the principles which should guide a library in choosing books. In connection with this should be read Mr. GrisAvold's criticism and Colonel Higginson's reply. [L.j. 15: 110-111.) Miss Coe's paper, " Should American literature be specially favored in our libraries?" {L. j. 15: lOl-lO'l) is a strong plea for a full represen- tation of American books. After the general policy of the library has been deternuned, what is the best method of compiling the purchase lists? Catalogs of other libraries of the same general character and of good standing are among the best guides, remembering, however, that every library accumulates more or less undesirable books through errors in purchases or indiscriminate acceptance of gifts. Also, that all catalogs soon become antiquated, as good books are continually being replaced by later and better ones. Several lists of best books have been published, the most prominent of which is Sonnenschein's, though the extent of this list (50,000 vol- umes) makes it hardly a "select" list, and \i is deficient in American books and editions. The "Catalog of the A. L. A. library at the World's Columbian Exposition " will form a good basis for biiying, as it is endorsed by leading American librarians. Special bibliographies are THE world's library CONGRESS. 813 always useful, particularly sucli as are annotated. For such bibliogra- pliies consult tlie List of Bibliograpliical Works in the EeadingEoom of the British Museum, Handbook for Eeaders in the Boston Public Library, and Indexes to Eecent Eeference Lists issued by the Harvard College Library; also, Growoll's Bookseller's Library. These catalogs and bibliographies are only available in buying the books of the past. For current literature other sources must be con- sulted. The Publisher's Weekly (N. Y.) contains the fullest lists of books published in the United States or imported in editions, and the notes are often useful, though not critical. Lists of English books may be found in the Bookseller (London). In many Sunday-school libraries all books are carefully read by the committee before buying, but for public libraries this is impracticable. Eeviews in the leading periodicals, such as the Nation, Critic, Literary World, and Bookbuyer, supplemented for English books by the Athe- niBum, Academy, and Saturday Eeview, are useful in making selec- tions. Special publications are best for many classes of books, such as Science and Nature for scientific publications; engineering periodi- cals for books on mechanical subjects; the Electrical Eeview and Electrical World for books on electricity, etc. But various reasons prevent placing full confidence in reviews. This has been pointed out by Mr. George lies in his paper, "The evaluation of literature" {L.j. 17 : c 18), and he proposes a system of cooperative reviewing, in which the reviews shall be impartial and written with due regard to public library needs. The difiiculty of selecting fiction, mainly because novels are so often judged from the literary rather than the moral standpoint, has lead to several suggestions for publishing annotated lists of new books speci- ally for library use. Such lists were given in earlier volumes of the Library Journal, but were discontinued. The Massachusetts Library Club has recently considered the subject, but has been obliged to defer the plan for the present. Buying duplicates. — A question asked by the A. L. A. committee is, How much do you duplicate popular books ? The answer can not be satisfactorily tabulated, but the following appears to be a fair state- ment of American practice. Eeference libraries seldom duplicate unless divided into separate departments, in which case extra copies of certain books may be necessary. College libraries often require several copies of books used by classes. The subscription libraries, such as the New York Mercantile, buy freely of new books in demand {L. j. 14: 371). The best managed public libraries, if funds allow, buy many extra copies of the best books, but avoid much duplicating of ephemeral books. Demand for the latter soon dies out and leaves the extra coj)ies unused. It is better to buy 10 extra copies of a wholesome book wanted by the public than one copy of 10 other books which will not be read. 814 EDUCATION REPOKT, 1892-93. Specialization. — Lack of funds and tlie principle of adaptation to constituency lias led librarians to consider specializing. While it is a great -n^aste to duplicate expensive works or long sets in different libraries in the same city, it is yet a great convenience to students to find all the resources of a city on a given subject in one library. An arrangement between different libraries by which each shall mark out its special field is very desirable. Every place should have one com- plete local collection. This should be in the public library, unless there is a historical society which covers the same field. This specialization should not prevent each library having as many of the more popular books as it needs, as they must be brought close to the readers who will not go elsewhere for them. A list of the special collections in American libraries, prepared by Messrs. Lane and Bolton, has been pub- lished by Harvard University library (Bib. contrib. Ko. 45). Out of 181 answers to the A. L. A. committee's question, 54 libraries reported, no special collections ; 49, local collections ; 7, general American history, while the others each reported one or more special collections. Buying. — Buying should be in the hands of one person, preferably the librarian. Methods depend on the character of the books, whether new and standard works regularly in the market or those that are old and scarce. New books should generally be bought of one house, unless the library is a large buyer, when it may be better to divide the trade between sev- eral dealers, if they carry different lines in stock. If one bookseller has all the trade he will take special interest in seeing that the library gets what it wants, though the knowledge that the trade is divided sometimes acts as a spur to promptness in filling orders. A large part of the new English books are at once reprinted in the United States, or else are imported in editions by branch houses or agents. These can be bought on the same terms as American books. Other English books are generally imported by libraries on duty-free certificates at a saving of about 25 per cent. Instead of employing foreign agents, it is now generally considered better to order through the regular American agent, or else through a firm that makes a spe- cialty of importing. The cost, after adding consul's fees, insurance, etc., iis about the same, while the librarian is saved annoyance of custom- house entries, and it is in every way easier to deal with an American agent. Booksellers are generally glad to send new books on approval, but as freight both ways must be paid by the customer this is expensive to libraries at a distance. Because of the expense of carriage, also, small country libraries are obliged to buy less frequently. If practicable, the book committee should meet at least twice a month, unless the librarian has authority to buy between meetings. New books should be bought as soon as piiblished, for two reasons: 1. To keep the library up to date and satisfy reasonable expectations of readers; and THE world's libeaey congbess. 815 2. Because many books are soon out of tlic market and can only be procnred at extra price, or with extra delay, specially if published abroad. English books can often be had cheaper a few months after publica- tion, either as "remainders" or from the great circulating libraries. The saving on the latter, however, is often more apparent than real, as they soon need rebindiug. Many expensive English books are soon republished in cheaper editions. Only experience will guide when to buy at once and when to wait for cheaper editions or secondhand copies. It is seldom wise to attempt to deal directly with publishers, even if t.hey make slightly better terms, as extra express on small parcels soon eats up extra discounts. Only part of the books bought bein g published by the larger houses, it will always be necessary to buy a large propor- tion of the retail bookseller, and it is not well to deprive him of the advantage of buying in large quantities and compel him to supply only books on which there is small i>rofit. He will be almost sure to recoup himself in someway. The same principle holds good with regard to the exceptionally large discounts offered by some dealers. These cau only apply to what the trade calls " regular books," and if extra dis- counts are made on these, extra prices are generally charged for the " special books." In buying books, as well as other merchandise, it is best to select such firms as have a reputation for honest dealing and pay them a price that will give a living profit. Of course a library distant from book centers nuist expect to pay local dealers somewhat higher prices, but so far as possible the local book- seller—under this term is not Included those dealers who usurp the name of bookseller while their stock is mainly stationery, wall paper, and fancy goods — should be encouraged, as the bookstore and the library help each other. A well-stocked bookstore, kept by an intel- ligent bookseller, is an intellectual gain to any community, and in a different way it does the same kind of work as the public library. It -is a great pity that the present condition of the trade has driven out many of the more intelligent dealers. Certain books, including most so-called " subscription books," are seldom found iu bookstores till some time p.fter publication. While most " subscription books " arc unworthy a place in the library, yet many desirable and indispensable works have been so published. Some librarians refuse to buy of traveling agents, but if a book is wanted immediately it is often best to get it through the channel chosen by its publisher. Publishers seem to have learned that it is for their advan- tage to employ a better class of canvassers, for the blusterer, determined to force his book on the buyer by any means, fair or foul, is mostly one of the past, or at least seldom enters the library. Many of the smaller libraries buy only new books, but the larger libraries, and those buying in special lines, need many books that are out of print, even if not scarce. These generally can not be bought as 816 EDUCATION EEPOET, 1892-93. wanted, but must be patiently sought. The principal sources are secondhand bookstores and auction rooms, personal search in second- hand stores being most effective. The boolis can then be examined, and the secondhand bookseller is generally as ready as the dealer in new books to send his goods on approval. Make the bookseller your confidant if wanting out-of-the-way books, specially if on a given subject. You may in some cases have to pay more, but you will secure books otherwise overlooked. The following extract from Mr. Growoll's Book- seller's Library is as true for book buyers as for booksellers : Theu there is the ■woU-reacI customer [or bookseller], -who ou occasions may he induced to give a hint or information concerning old or new hooks not easily got in any other way. * » » Take snch men into your confidence; their assistance will often save you hours of study. Many secondhand dealers issue partial catalogs. These should be carefully examined for books that are on the "short" list or that may be wanted. It is hardly necessary to warn buyers to see that the books are perfect and of the best edition. Titles are often twisted in order to present them in the most attractive way. A leading New York secondhand bookseller used to say that the secret of cataloging is to enter the same book in half a dozen different places in the same catalog in such a manner that the reader shall never discover it. The same caution holds in auction buying, and in no case should books be bought at auction except after personal inspection before sale. If the librarian can not be present, a secondhand bookseller will act as agent for a moderate commission. Whether buying in person or through an agent, a limit should be fixed for each item before the sale. Otherwise one may be carried away by his enthusiasm when the bid- ding is lively. If an honest, well-informed agent is employed much may be left to his discretion. Scarce books may often be secured by advertising in book trade and literary periodicals. Some libraries publish lists of wants with their annual reports, specially of volumes needed to complete sets of periodi- cals and transactions of societies. This often secures a gift of the missing parts. If making special collections, acquaintance with other collectors in the same line may often lead to advantageous exchanges of duplicates. Every librarian is recommended to study carefully Growoll's Book- seller's Library. Familiarity Avith its contents will enable the librarian to meet the bookseller on more equtil terms to their mutual advantage. It would also be well for librarians to have some practical experience in retail bookstores and for booksellers to be informed as to library methods and systematic bibliography. The following facts were brought out by the inquiries made by the library scshool for the A. L. A. comparative exhibit. Of 155 libraries answering the question, "What per cent do you buy at auction?" 106 reply " none," 27 "few," 15 buy from 1 to 5 per cent, and 7 from 6 to 30 per THE world's library CONGRESS. 817 cent. The question, "W:]iat per cent from secondhand catalogs?" was answered by 149; 57 say "none," 37 "few," 40 not over 10 per cent, and 14 from 10 to 60 per cent; 1 says "large." As might be expected, the smaller public libraries buy few or no books by either of these methods. On the other hand, the larger and more specialized libraries must secure much of their accessions either through auction or secondhand catalogs. Order system.— When purchases are small no special order system is required, except to keep a copy of orders sent and check off items when received so as to make sure that all orders are filled and none duplicated. The larger libraries, however, find it necessary to adopt some well-planned system of keeping track of orders. That of the Harvard University library may serve as a sample and is here described. The basis of this system is the order slip, which starts with the pro- fessor or other person recommending, and whose final destination is the official card catalog : Book number . Ordered. Received Fund Harvard College library o r d e r SLIP. *j, * Do not write in the corner above. Remarks may be made on tbe back of this card. Author or editor. Title Edition Place Publisher ... Date Vols Size Price . Sign your name rif there is urgent need,"] L "write haHe here. J and the date The following is the history of such a slip: When received it is dated and an assistant verifies and completes details of title, edition^ publisher, etc., and sees if the book is already in the library or ordered. This assistant checks the slip, which then goes to the librarian for approval. If approved it is stamped; if not, the person recommending^ is notified, if he is a person entitled (except by courtesy) to hand in titles for buying. The slip then passes to an assistant who orders the book on a regular form containing printed instructions to the agent. The library has agents in London, Paris, Leipzig, Florence, Copenha- gen, Madrid, and several in this country. The slip is then stamped with date and name of agent, and the number of the order is written on it. A press copy of the order is then taken, after which it is signed by the librarian. A memorandum of estimated cost is then entered- under the allotment from the book fand from which it is to be paid. As experience shows that a large proportion of the orders can not be immediately filled, it is generally safe to exceed by 25 per cent the appropriation for any given year. The order slip is then filed. When a shipment is unpacked the books are laid on a counter in order of Invoice, which is checked. Order slips are then picked out by invoice, invoices being arranged by the agent according to order ED 93 52 818 EDUCATION REPORT,- 18'J2-93. numbers. Date of reception is stamped on, slip, also in copy book . against the order. The slip is placed in the book and the librarian loolcs over the books and assigns each to its book fund, whicli is Trritten on the invoice against each item. The books are then collated and the person recommending notified. If he -wishes the book at once, a pink slip of paper is placed in the book and it is pushed through in a hurry, otherwise it takes the usual course. Name of library and date of recep- tion are stamped on back of title-page and fund written below, book- plate, date slip for charging, and back label are pasted, and the book is entered on shelf list' and then goes to cataloger. The order slip is left in the book and as cards are ■written, it is corrected and fund and shelf mark are filled in. After cards are revised the order slip is filed in the official catalog. To keep track of books in the hands of the catalogers and prevent ordering books already received, a temporary slip for each book received is written (much abbreviated) and kept in a box till books have gone to sh«lf and cards into catalogs. Each slip has a number stamped at the toil and a smaller slip with the same number on it is placed in the book with the author's last name or first word of title written on it. When book goes to shelf this slip is taken out. When a number of such slips have accumulated they are used to pick out the corresponding slips from the box. An inspection of the number shows how many books have been received for cataloging in any given time. During the checking of the invoice, reports on books not sent are indorsed on the order slip, also particulars as to partially filled orders, after which the slip is returned to the order drawer. A "continuation catalog," partly on cards and partly in a book, is used for keeping track of serial s. In a small library all the processes of the above order system are not necessary, but it forms a good outline for adoption whenever the num- ber of orders is larger. Disposal of duplicates.' — Nearly every library accumulates dupli- cates, mostly through gifts. While many of these have little apparent value, yet it must be remembered that every book has its proper place awaiting it. An old edition of a schoolbook is useless in the circulat- ing department of a public library, but may be indispensable to the American Antiquarian Society or the Essex Institute. The odd report of a society may bo just what is needed by another library to complete its file. The question is how to bring a return to the library by placing these duplicates where they will do most good. Some libraries use the auc- 'Tho Harvard College library is almost alone in keeping no regular accession book, though it floes keep a book recording daily the volumes and pamphlets received from each source. It enters on the shelf list instead of the accession book many of the particulars of imprint, source, etc. ITiis routine could readily bo adapted to the usual accession book. (See later under Accession book the reasons against omitting its use.) THE world's LIBKAEY CONGRESS. 819 tion room, but the attendant expense renders this undesirable unless for books of considerable value. The same holds true with regard to selling through a bookseller on commission. A central clearing house for duplicates has been suggested, but here also the expense of handling must be considered. It is doubtful if there would be sufficient business to reduce the pro rata cost to con- tributiug libraries to a moderate figure, and the State or National Government has hardly reached the point of undertaking this work at the expense of taxpayers.i Dr. Ames's exchange of public documents might be cited against this view, but in this case the work is confined to the publications of the National Groverument which are published for ffcee distribution. For these reasons, libraries will generally have to depeud, in the uear future as in the past, on private arrangements, either for cash sales or for exchanges with other libraries or collectors. A few years since, the Columbia College library inaugurated a system of briefly cataloging duplicates on slips which were arraaged by sub- jects. If another library desired books on a given subject, th« slips for this subject were mailed. The order could be given by simply sepa- rating the slips of books desired. The list of special collections in American libraries will bo useful in finding possible customers for many odd books. G-ifts. — Diligent advertising and beggiug will generally secure many gifts, ranging from whole libraries to the refuse of the garret. Even the latter may contain long-desired books or missing periodicals. It is not necessary that all gifts be added to the library, and they should be received with the understanding that they maybe sold or exchanged if duplicates or unsuitable. It costs money to catalog and store books, and those outside the library's field should bo rigidly excluded. Indi- viduals interested in particular subjects may often be induced to con- tribute either books or money to build up some special department. It is undesirable that gifts of miscellaneous books, should be shelved by themselves. They should be distributed through the Ubrary with their respective subjects. All gifts should be acknowledged at the time, as well as in the annual report. Collation. — Librarians differ widely as to this. Some collate every- thing, others only the more exi)ensive works and those coutaiuing plates, while still other experienced librarians collate nothing. The argument urged against collation is that it costs more thau the occa- sional loss of an imjjerfect book. It is true that most i)ublisherS are 'Since ■writing tlie above we learn that the Neiv York State library -will soon open its clearing house for duplicates. Books ^Then received are appraised and the library- is entitled to draw out an equal amount from the stock on hand at prices at which they were received. This is free for Now York libraries only, and the cost of han- dling is borne by the State because of the great practical value to all its libraries. It is proposed to allow libraries outside New York to share the advantages on pay- ment of the actual cost of the State's service, no allowance being made for profit. 820 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. willing to replace imperfect books years later if possible, but experi- elice shows that imperfections, even if noticed by the reader, are often not reported till after many years, when the book may be out of print. The safer rule is to collate all i^urchases, but a show of hands at the Chicago conference indicated the general opinion that it is desirable to collate only expensive works. Accession book. — The accession book is the business record of the library and is the first place where books should be entered. It should be accurately kept, so that it may be sworn to in court as a true state- ment of the contents of the library at any given time. The form of this book was one of the first subjects considered by the A. L. A. coopera^ tion committee, and their deliberations, resulted in the "A. L. A. stand- ard accession book," now made by the Library Bureau. The facts given in this book are as follows : Date of accession. Accession'number [consecutive]. Class number. )„,„,,,,•. ' _ , _ > Tiiese form tne call number. Book number. ) Volume. Author. Title. Place and publisher. Date. Pages. Size. Binding. Source. [Fund, and of whom bought, or giver.] Cost. Remarks. [Condition, rebinding, withdrawal.] An introduction contains rules for entering and a list of library abbre- viations. Each volume has a separate line and bears its own accession number. If it is worn out or lost it is marked " withdrawn," which ends its history. The copy replacing is given a new number. Many libraries, considering the size of the "Standard" (35 by 30 cm.) too cumbrous and costly, adopt the "Condensed accession book" (25 by 20 cm.), which contains the same items but allows less space for entry. In the Library Journal, v. 3 (see bibliography), will be found a discus- sion on the accession book, Mr. Winsor claiming that it is unnecessary and that the business entries might better be included in the shelf list. iSo other librarian came forward in support of his arguments, and it may be considered that the question has been definitely settled, and iu favor of the A. L. A. standard. THE world's library CONGRESS. 821 As the Harvard College shelf list, including accession entries, has never been shown in print, it is given below, not for commendation, but simply as a matter of recond : HARVARD COLLEGE LIBRARY SHELF LIST. H. C. L. Class ■ Book uo. No. vols. Author. Place. Bate. Braucli . Sectiou . Size. Date, of accession. Source. Hem ark 8. Euns across two pages, 32 lines on a page. Title, not volume, to a line. Cost and accession number not given. 'Withdra'wal book. — This is a useful supplement to the accession book. It was invented by J. 0. Houghton, of the Lynn public library, and is not yet in general use. A slightly modified form used by the Salem i)ublic library is as follows : [Left-hand page.] Date. Ace. no. Call no. Author. Title. 9I7.2-B1. ]B'-1227E. 4 cm. AdT. of Toung Naturalist. True Stories. 11.5 cm. Apr. 3 13593 3 era. 2.5 cm. Hawthorne, N 5 cm. [Right-hand page.] CnuBC. Bemarlis. Date replaced. Acc.no. Call no. Hemarks. Damaged pa. for hy M. C. S Mar. 16 26845 917. 2-Bl. 4 copies left. 7 cm. 2 cm. 7.5 cm. 2.5 cm. 2.5 cm. 4.5 cm. The width of each column is given in centimeters. The size of the condensed accession book is well adapted for this. The principal use of the withdrawal book is to give a fuller record than can be made in the accession book of the circumstances attending the withdrawal of a book. When this book is kept the only entry in the accession book is the date of withdrawal. Another use is for sta- tistics. The year's additions in each class can be ascertained from the accession book, the withdrawals from the withdrawal book, the differ- 822 EDUCATION KEPORT, 1892-93. ence is" the net growth in each class. This appears to be the simjylest and most accurate method of keeping these statistics. Marks of ovrnership. — As a mark of ownership the name of the library should always bo stamped on title-pages and all maps and plates not containing letterpress. Also, as the title-jjage is often lost,, some other fixed page should be stamped. An embossing stamp is best for this purpose, as, if it is properly made, it is impossible to remove completely the impression. A rubber stamp is sometimes used, but this may oifset if the book is closed before dry, and it may bo easily erased by scratcher or emery paper. A bookplate should be pasted inside the front cover. JBesides the name and address of the library, this should state the source from which the book was received, if a gift or bought from a special fund; also the shelf mark. Many libraries give date of receipt, but this is superfluous if the accession number, is written or stamped in the book. The plate should not be too large, should be legible, with clear spaces in which to write the numbers, so that these may not be confused with the printing or engraving, and should always give the name of the State as well as of the city or town. For convenience, the pocket or date slip described under loan systems should be pasted in at the same time. We have now considered the various processes involved in adding a book to the library from its recommendation to its entry in the acces- , sion book. Its future history, including its shelf location, cataloging, and use by readers, belong to other chapters. BIBLIOGKAPHY. The following bibliography is subdivided in the same manner as the body of the paper, and under each heading the references are arranged chronologically : SELECTION OF BOOKS. PooLE, WiF: Selection of books (lu " Organiz.itiou andmanagement of public libraries.") United States Bureau of Education. Public libraries. (1876) p. 479^81. Hakrison, R. Selection and acquisition of books for u library, i.y. (1877). 2: 145-150. National litrinies should contain everything. Smaller libraries to be guided by "utility" and *' appropriateness." Best selector is librarian working in harmony with a competent book committee. Gifts often unsatisfactorj^. Andkrson, J. M. Selection and selectors of books. X.J. (1877)2: 150-52. Covers same ground as Mr. Harrison. Homes, H: A. Selection of books for popular libraries. L.j. (1878) 3: 50-51. Eecommends publication of approved lists of now books in L.j. James, H. P. Selection of books for tUo Newton free library. L.j. (1884) 9: 209-10. A reply to criticism for buying too little fiction. Editorial on same subject, i.j.9: 207-8. Little, G : T. What sliould be done for an old library -with a limited income. L.j. (1885) 10: 245-46. If your library is behind the times in its books, buy back volumes of leading periodicals. THE WOELD's lilERAay CONGRESS. 823 NELSOJf , C : A.. Choosiug !ind buying books, i.j. (1887) 12 : 155-56. Bay reference books freely. ^ How we chooso and buy now books: [a symposium.] i. j. (1889) 14: 336-39, 372. A valuable .statement of methods of ton leading libraries contributed by tlieir librarians, CoE, E. M. Should American literature be specially favored in our libraries? L.j. (1890) 15:101-04. Answers. "Yes." Cites experience of N. T. free circulating library. Tbo most popalanvorks are usually those of American authorship, specially among readers of foreign descent. Dis- cussion, p. 116-117. HiGGiNSON, T: AY. Cambridge public library. Plan for the selection of books. (1890.) A careful study of the principles which should guide the hook committee, Geiswold, W: M. Choice of books in public libraries, eapecixilly at Cambridge. i. J, (1890) 15:110. HlGGiNSON, T: W, Tbe Cambridge public library and its critic. L. j. (1890) 15:110-11. Foster, W: E. Industrial additions to the Providence public library. L.j. (1890) 15 ; 144. Lists of proposed additions sent to specialists for criticism. Nelson, C ; A. How the books were bought for our library. L. j. (1890) 15 : G 38-39. Green, S : S. Relation of tbe librarian to the book committee. L. j. (1890) 15 : C 116-17. Iles, 6: Book reviewing systematized, i. j. (1891) 16: 208. A cooperative system outlined. Selection and buying of books. [Mass. Lib. Club discussion.] L. j. (1892) 17: 172. Keport of committee on preparation of lists for purchase. [Mass. Lib. Club.] L.j. (1892) 17:429, The plan proposes a oommittco similar to the ladies' commission on Sunday school hooks. Books to be supplied hy Ijibrary Bureau in connection with their plan of printed catalog cards. IMS, G : Evaluation of literature. L. j. <1892) 17 : C 18-22. An enlargement of his paper cited above. Discussion at pp. 63-65, 80, 81 . Report on lists of books. [Mass, Lib. Club.] L.j. flSSS) 18: 85-86. Supplemental to previous report. Adams, C: F. Sifting as a library policy. X. j. (1893) 18: 118-19. Also editorial at p. 107. See also Xaiion, 56 : 210-11. Mr. Adams proposes that the Quincy public library be kept permanently at 15,000 volumes by periodical weeding of the older books. The two roviewa point out the Impossibility of doing this without- injury to tbe usefulness of the institution. (See discussion, at Chicago conference, 1893, of S. S . Green's paper. Also in tliis report. ) ' Providence Public Library. Reports. Needs of a public library, methods of selec- tion, specialization. nUTING DUPLICATES. What wo do about dnplieates: [symposium.] i. j. ( 1889) 14 : 369-71. Giving the practice of the following libraries; Cleveland, Apprentices' (N. Y.), Brooklyn, 'Worces- ter, N. Y. Mercantile. SPECIALIZATION 01' LIBRARIES. Wright, W. H. K. Special collections of local books iu provincial libraries. L. A. U. K. Transactions (1878) 1: 44-50. Nodal, J. H. Special collections of books in Lanca.shiro and Cheshire. L. A. U. K. Transactions (1879) 2: 54-60, 139-48. Collection of local history in a library. L. j. (1888) 13 : 310-11. Discussion at Catskill conference. 1888. Jackson, Annie B. Music and collections of art x>hotograpb8 in. public libraries. Lil). notes (1889) 3: 463-69. 824 EDUCATION EEPORT, ] 892-93. Ford, P. L. Differentiation or specialization of libraries with special referenne to New York. L.j. (1890) 15: 7-9. W.lsto through duplication of expensive books in different libraries of saiuo city. G-ain if certain libraries made specialty of certain subjects. See discussion, i.j. 15: 22-23. Poole, E. B. Specialization iu New York libraries. L.j. (1890) 15: 67-70. ''Each library should have a definite purpose." "Each library must have its limitations." Cohen, M. Differentiation of libraries. L.j. (1890) 15: 70-71. " There is only a limited sphere for the application of Mr. Ford's scheme, and that is the class of rare and valuable books.' ' Books should be brought as near the homes of the people as possible. Farquhar, E. Specialization of libraries. L.j. (1890) 15: 100. Cutter, W. E. The local collection in the Wobnrn Public Library. L. j. (1892) 17:420-22. A paper read before the Mass. Library Club. Lane, W: C, and Bolton, C: K. Notes on special collections in American libraries. Harvard Univ. Library. Bi}>. cont. No. 45. Eeprinted from Bulletins Nos. 52 and 53 (1892). A list of such collections with notes. BUYING. Edwards, E: Memoirs of libraries, 1859, 2 : 628-64. [Purchases.] Poole, W: F: Purchase of books. U. S. Bur. of Educ. Special report, 1876, p. 481-83. Poole, W : F :, and others. The 20 per, cent discount rule. X. j. (1876) 1 : 134-39. A discussion of the effects of the action of the American Booksellers' Association in 1874, limiting discounts to libraries. Poole, W : F : Discounts on book purchases. L. j. (1877) 2 : 26. Beport of committee. * Walford, C. On special collections of books. L. j. (1877) 2: 140-45. Their selection and collection. The general catologs and bibliographies very incomplete. Diffi- culty of finding a work of which collector does not even know es'stence. Make friends of secondhand dealers. May have to pay a liigher price, but will secure many books otherwise overlooked. Acquaintance of others collecting in same line. Spofeord, a. E. Book-auction catalogs and their perils. L.j. (1878) 3: 53-54. Errors in cataloging and proof-reading. "The standard of auction catalogs shoujd be raised." On the purchase of books by librarians. [Editorial.] L.j. (1884) 9: 99. " The duty of the librarian is to get as much as he can with the money intrusted to his charge." Effect of free libraries on the publishing trade. L.j. (1885) 10:131. Caspar, C. N. Hints for finding the author, title, publisher, place of publication, edition, size, or price of books. X. j. (1885) 10: 180-82. Fletcher, W : I. The value of old'books. X. j. (1887) 12 : 292-93. Popular misconceptions ; ' ' Age is no criterion of value in books. ' ' Gamut, D. Art of bookbuying. L.j. (1887) 12: 293-95. Auction sales in Paris and New York. Cakr, H : J. Buying of books by library boards. X. j. (1889) 14 : 41-42. Delays and extra expense caused by requirement that all lists must be submitted to full board before ordering. Harris, G:W: Some German publishing methods. L.j. (1889)14:2,50-54. Extravagant multiplication of titles andsubtitles, irregularity in publication and price of period- icals and of works published in parts. Tyler, A. W. Book agent baffled. X.j. (1889) 14: 464. Curtis, C. B. Tariff on books by mail. L.j. (1890) 15: 180-81. Stocking the Newberry library. [Chicago News.] L.j. (1890)15:234-35. Do free libraries decrease the popular sale of books? X. j. (1890) 15: 237. Leading publishers think not. Cutter, C. A. Eules for a dictionary catalog. Ed. 3, 1891, p. 127-128. Eorm of order list. THE world's LIBKARY CONGRESS. 825 Growoll, a. a bookseller's library and bow to use it. N. Y., 1891. A valuable bibliography ,• the accompanying advice to the bookseller is equally useful to the book- buyer. This work also forms a part of his " Profession of bookselling." (N. T., 1803.) GlLBURT, J. Remainders, iiftmry (1892) 4 : 324-28. CoUootion of newspaper and society publications. L.j. (1893) 18: 80-81. Experience of the Minnesota historical society and of the St. Louis mercantile library. DISPOSAL OF DUPLICATES. Exchange of duplicates. L.j. (1877) 2: 31. A motion for a committee. Edmands, J. Report of committee on exchanges of duplicates. L. j, (1879) 4 : 289-90. A central bureau impracticable because of expense. Dewey, Melvil. Clearing house for duplicates. L.j. (1880)5:216-17. Barton, E. M. Best use of duplicates. L. j. (1885) 10: 231-34. Keep best copy; dispose of others by auction or exchange. Clearinghouse for duplicate public documents. [From the Naiion.] L.j. (1886) 11:19-20. Dewey, Melvil. Our cheap and effective catalog of sale duplicates. L.j. (1887) 12 : 440-41. A slip catalog arranged by subjects. Dewey, Melvil. Sale duplicate slip catalog. L.j. 13:284-86; also Lib. notes, (1888) 3:350-53. Containing the printed form used at Columbia College. State clearing house for duplicates. L.j. (1890) 15: C 154-55. Discussion by Kew York library association. GIFTS. Indirect begging. L. j. (1878) 3 : 126. Accept and acknowledge everything. SiCKLEY, J: C. Completing sets of periodicals. L.j. (1883) 8: 105-06. A circular stating "wants secured many by gift. GoVE, "W. H. [How private gifts can supplement public expenditure.] L.j. (1891) 16:221. COLLATION. Collation of books: [a discussion]. L.j. (1876) 1: 133-34. ACCESSION BOOK. Dbwby, Melvil. A model accession catalog. L. j. (1876) 1 : 315-20. Eeport of the cooperation committee. Some changes in the book were afterwards made. Accessions catalog. L.j. (1877) 2: 25-26. A discussion of report of cooperation committee. WiNSOB, J. Shelf lists vs. accession catalogs. L. j. (1878) 3 : 247-48. Considers accession book unnecessary and that the important items can be more conveniently pre- served on the shelf list. Poole, "W: F: Shelf lists vs. accession catalogs. L.j. (1878) 3: 324-26. A defence of the accession book as a labor saver. Perkins, F : B., and Dewey, M. Tlie accession catalog again. L. j. (1878) 3: 336-38. Two defences of the accession book. Barrett, F. T. A form of stock book or accessions catalog. L. A. U. K. Transac- tions (1878); first meeting, 79-81. The form used at the Mitchell library, Glasgow, with a pattern of tlie classification of the same. [Dewey, M.] Accession book. Lib. notes (1886) 1 : 27-29. [Dewey M.] A. L. A. standard accession book. lAb. notes (1887) 2: 17-28. A reprint of the preface, including rules for entering. 826 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. MAKKS OF OWNERSHIP, ETC. [DEWEY, M.] Bookplates. iiS. «o«es (1886) 1: 23-25. [Dewey, M.] Embossing stamp. Lib. notes (1886) 1: 26-27. [Dewey, M.] Card poukets. Lil. notee (1887) 1 : 282-85. Pamphlets. By Walter S. Biscob, Catalog Librarian, New York State Library. Definition. — Before treating of pampLlets we must know what they are. It is very common to set an arbitrary standard of a certain num- ber of pages and to call all unbound works below tliis standard pam- phlets. About half the librarians at the Chicago meeting limited the term pamphlets to unbound works of less than 100 pages. The Century Dictionary gives the following definition: A printed work consisting of a few sheets of paper stitched together, but not bonnd ; now, in a restricted technical sense, 8 or more pages of printed matter (not exceeding 5 sheets) stitched or sewed, with or without a thiu wrapper or cover. J. Winter Jones, librarian of the British Museum, in his inaugural address at the meeting of the London conference of 1877, said: A. distinction ought to bo drawn between a volume, a pamphlet, a single sheet, and a broadside; or rather one general agreement ought to be arrived at upon this branch of our subject. It may be urged, and with much reason, that every work which is bound should bo treated as a volume. A work of an ephemeral nature may bo called a pamphlet, but such a work may extend to more than 100 pages. When is such a work to bo raised to the dignity of a volume? It is assumed that the ques- tion of pamphlet or no pamphlet will be confined to works in prose. It would bo the safest course to apply the term single sheet to a sheet of paper folded once, or printed on both sides without being folded, and the term broadside to a sheet printed only on one side. Mr. Cutter has described them as "Those thin, limp books which we call pamphlets." The real distinction, on which all agree, seems to be that a pamphlet is unbound; whatever its size, as soon as placed in durable covers it ceases to be a pamphlet and becomes a volume. Whether any limit of size should be made among unbound works is an open question. Clear- ness and accuracy will be gained by disregarding size and making binding the sole test. We would not say seriously that a library should collect unbound works of over 100 pages and throw away those containing less pages. Neither can we satisfactorily base our treat- ment of these works on the shelves on the number of pages. It might be taken as one criterion in cataloging, but it would be only another way of saying "catalog what is worth cataloging," and the rule would perhaps need to be broken almost as often as kept, for many pam.- phlets of under 100 pages are more worthy of cataloging thau most of those of over 100 pages. The question is really as to the collection and treatment of the large mass of unbound printed material which, not being regarded as valuable enough to bind separately, is kept unbound for years, perhaps always. THB world's LIBRAEY CONGRESS. 827 The following cleflnitions seein to accord in the main with common usage : Broadside. — A sheet of paper printed on one side only; c. g., hand- bills, Thanksgiving proclamations, etc. Sheet. — A shefet of paper folded only once, or printed on both sides without being folded and M^ithout covers. Pamphlet. — A printed work consisting of one or more sheets of paper fastened together, but not bonnd. Serial. — A jjublicatiou issued in successive paits, usnally at regular intervals, and continued indefinitely. Sequent. — Any publication issued in parts, including all serials, irreg- ular publications and books, the volumes or parts of which are issued at different times. In a more restricted sense, excluding serials, a pub- lication issued in parts, usually at irregular intervals and often with a definite termination. Statistics. — In reporting the size of a library or the number of addi- tions, volumes and pami)hlets should be counted separately. This will give a fair basis for comparison of the size and value of different libra- ries. It is hei^, perhaps, that there is the strongest argument for reckon- ing an unbound work of over 100 pages as a volume, not as a pamphlet. At first thought it seems better to say this report of 75,647, volumes means substantial works, whether bound or unbound; but this would not bo true unless you excluded from the count all hound volumes of less than 100 pag-es, and I believe I have never heard a librarian pro- pose to do this. By using binding as the distinctive mark of a vohiine, the statistics say this library contains so many works which are bound and so many whicli the authorities think, taking all things into account, it is best to leave, at least for the present, unbound. From the count of pamphlets should be excluded all the numbers of current periodicals and proceedings of learned societies, and all parts of works issued in paper covers, but intended to be bound as soon as completed. This practically excludes all sequeuts except annual reports, catalogs, etc. These should be counted as pamphlets. There is also a wide diver- gence of opinion as to what statistical record should be made of bound volumes of pamphlets. Current report says that the British Museum counts as one volume 10 pamphlets bound together, while the Biblio- theque Isationale, at Paris, counts every pamphlet, bound or unbound, as a separate volume. If this is so, no just comparison of the size of these two great libraries can be made. In an accession book any number of pamphlets bound together are usually given a single accession number. It seems natural in statisti6s to follow the same rule, and to report the number of volumes the same as if they were counted as they stood on the shelves, without taking them down to examine their contents, and to report a similar count of pamphlets. If greater accuracy is desired, or if it is wished to show how large a pamphlet collection the library lias made, it can be best done by giving these facts as additional in- 828 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. formation; e. g., 151,043 volumes (including 4,570 volumes, containiug 63,974 pamphlets) and 79,627 unbound pamphlets. Uniform usage in giving these statistics would be of great service to all persons engaged in the comparative study of libraries. Importance. — The desirability of preserving the larger part of pam- phlet literature is granted by most librarians. Everyone will insist on the preservation of such as relate to the subjects in which he is inter- ested. Grant this, and all must be kept, for some one is Interested in every subject. The importance of pamphlets is attested by the famous collections like the Thomason pamphlets in the British Museum, by the special catalogs of jiamphlets issued by booksellers, by the sump- tuous binding frequently given to the once despised pamphlet, and by the extravagant prices for which they are often sold after a century's existence. Siiecial classes of publications sought for by enthusiastic collectors, such as early Americana, accounts of criminal trials, minor publications of noted authors, etc., bring large prices. It is true that the great mass of iiamphlets can lay no such claim to a large money value, but are of seemingly ephemeral interest. Are they really of little importance? Eeports of philanthropic work, of historical socie- ties, of governmental departments — national. State, and municipal — of religious bodies, propagandist pamphlets of all kinds, scientilic mono- graphs, university theses, anniversary addresses — these and a host of others preserve information vainly sought elsewhere. They contain the material which will be wanted 100 years hence for writing the history of the movements of to-day. It is well to insist strongly on their pres- ervation somewhere, for there is more danger of their being despised than of their being overrated. It is the common everyday pamphlet which needs specially to be cared for, since that is the very one usually disregarded. The university extension syllabus, which is in everyone's hand, the report of some local society or club, the manual of a church, or the report of a town officer — these are everywhere, and often no one thinks to lay aside a copy for preservation. Large depositories. — What libraries ought to make large collections of these pamphlets, to gather all the material they can and store it for the use of future generations 1 Certainly not every one, for, done in the least exx^ensive way, it costs much money and labor and needs much space. The library must have a large income to pay the expenses, and a large staff to do the work. Then libraries should be scattered all about the country, for the double purpose of gathering more fully the pamphlet literature of each section of the country and to provide depositories which shall be easy of access to all investigators. There are not enough libraries at present doing this work. Perhaps all those whose means justify them in undertaking it are doing what they can; but if so, it is only one more reason for providing more atni)le funds for building up great libraries, to bo both storehouses and literary work- shops. An analysis of the statistics collected for the comparative THE world's LIBRAKY CONGRESS. 829 exhibit at Chicago shows only 42 libraries collecting annually over 500 pamphlets, and only 12 which add over 2,000 per year. These figures are, of course, not complete, but with previous statistics they show that there are far too few libraries persistently collecting this ephemeral literature ; the number does not seem to be over 20, and three-quarters of these are in the extreme East, i. c, New England and Middle States, including the District of Columbia. The great national library at Washington should, of course, stand at the head here, as in everything, collecting from both American and foreign sources. Then, in nearly every State there should be a large scholarly collection, aiming to col- lect the literature of that part of the country specially, but gathering in whatever it can get, receiving contributions from all the individual collectors and providing a place Avhere everyone may be sure that his hobby will be gladly received and cared for; a place, too, where every- one will come with the expectation of finding material for his intellec- tual work, and where he will not be disappointed. Select coUections.^-What pamphlets should other libraries keep? Every library should have some specialty, and should have as good a collection on this subject as can be obtained. Many libraries will have more than one such subject. At least one library in every place should keep all local history and literature, trivial as well as important; local newspapers, sermons, addresses, and reports, school catalogs, catalogs of manufacturers or dealers; lists of church members or of any local society — whatever you would like to see if printed 50 or 100 years ago, collect now and keep for the people of 50 or 100 years to come. Each college, school, and seminary should gather all that will preserve the history of the institution; yet often they have no complete sets of their own ofBcial publications, and the student periodicals and ephemera are very frequently passed by as too trivial. Theological seminaries will collect the literature of their denomination; societies — musical, artistic, literary, historical, or scientific — each have their special line plainly marked out. Accident often determines the field of collection. Some enthusiastic collector after gathering material for a lifetime bestows it on the local library; a local society engages in scholarly research or some line of investigation; a native of the town has become a noted author, and works by him and about him are carefully collected ; per- haps he has been prominent in some event of national importance, and Whatever relates to this event is sought for and added to the library. Other pamphlets, outside the specialties of the library, which it does not wish to preserve, are best sent to the nearest large library willing to care for them. Methods of collecting. — The same means, in great measure, will be used by the small and by the large library; differing circumstances will make sometimes one and sometimes another method best. All libraries will use personal appeal as the most direct and efficacious method, which can be supplied by no other. It need not be direct and 830 EDUCATION EEPOET, 1892-93. oiitspoken begging, though this is sometimes desirable. A personal statement of the purposes ariA needs of the library, what it is trying to do, and the literature it wishes to collect, made perhaps in ordinary conversation, will often produce far-reaching results. Eequests for individual pamphlets, gentle hints that the library should not be for- gotten in the distribution of this or that treatise, and inquiries where the library can obtain a duplicate of a desired pamj)lilet, iiot only serve to get the individual object asked for, but show that the library is interested in that line and anxious to get all available material. Written requests will be used most by small libraries. Their efforts are not so extensive as to preelude writing; with small funds they can less easily beai* the expense of printed forms, and usually the librarian has more leisure. Even in a large library the written request will some- times be needed, for it commands attention when a printed blank is dis- regarded. Correspondence with specialists, with requests for their own publications and for their assistance in gathering other material, should not be overlooked. You may thus hear of and often acquire many pamphlets which would otherwise be unknown to yon. Printed begging blanks will be extensively used by the large library which is collecting widely. They must be used to diminish the labor and expense of correspondence. To offset the disadvantage of print they are fuller than a written request could be, yet they must not be too long or no one will read them. A brief outline of the purposes and facilities of the library and the reasons why such pamphlets are desired arc sufficient. Special blanks for special subjects are very desirable, as in this way more minute information can be given and the exact pur- pose of the collection stated. Printed announcements should be placed in the pubKwttions H !2i 12! !2i |X i ai -d ^ a a t4 . ?i P' . ® • ^^ ■ ® (0 !2i^ IziP^ tzi ^ ^f5 >?; » O o _ J^! !S! H X fsi i! o o O 0) O CO '■^ a fl ® DO M CD M S'.S'i oBcg ■§".2 >, a !>, « g a.-gn £ a ©'d'ca P;j (0 P ■ ■ ■ ^ a ii: laj ^ iira 00© W5S p- 1 A o B 5 la .'o 1; o > P ^ b CO R cp ^ 11 OS rt £ Pio C> p > o m o |lwg.B| p'drP 3 ©Id ■" S P. o —bj) I ill *= ©,aO -*a pf ©_« s "d'd ' P » cand . M g ffl H!0 Mag'^a ea.a ee-a 3^ o ca iH ■•3 a is s St rt P "3 pP B § O R - poa «3S". a.rt^ © o,p US ©L* NRPh!:; •3 ■a .. ? g si f^ O S a s -e •Sl^- — b i2 " g 6? rS_.W =m|S S -P -CO ^^■o .s± i>3--h;a ■Siafeg P P .PM =h|X >:© O S rag © s c5 .=3&i -sg 00 O O cot- o o 10 o t- t- O O fH o ■^ l> o o t- o 0000 0000 0000 (o lA ^ n S i-i 10 o "tf i-iO THE world's library CONGRESS. 865 IS is E'5 c; o o o Is !s >^ M is O 0(0 [2; Isix Is Is Is M H a I- §1 ll 1 o 1 3 CO 02 H|x|Zi 3*5 Is IM ■i p o ,_- 2 I O S 0] o !2il>HtS to w Mi's sop p O i§se£j :; o a te'^'^ ^■saiso P Rto f B •■a 8^ Ite ga -« RO«P o , His £ a 3 * . o g ^ M 3 p^ fl 00'^ l> . o p pj: oco _ '^ -«) JO « W) ? s a h CO w 53 o C3 O ^ <=) O I o o 0000 -55 ca (D o 866 EDUCATION EEPOET, 1892-93. o ca o !» ?. o o o o O V 'AX CJ o o o o o o 'A'A •A'A o o o o 'A'A O -H o « u8 H R X ?5 p. o (U m o o 10 o ^ to 4a e3 o a> gj V c o o Ptfl o o s ri C3 ri KCDCQ O 10 S ill COCCP S-gffl§ ; o B 03 W5g in o CO in IS ■♦53 « S * OCA'S a. "o H -rC - .-■" O w O t^ o 3 "2 3 o llfels R 1^ a go S & « , to {^ ; o :||a r2 ril & rt . □ - . S U d ;-*3 o o tj s © (8 O ^ » ;> Ph P i 'A 3 fe P a ^^ 3 ^ a .£ .S B S .3- p o g ^'hfl 'ho g.H;zit,t> fc- o W.S O O .a R 3..S2 -; f= P ^c -S a. 'S i, gP- Wi n 2 Is ^ (O B '■V izi W flPn fe 2 B »■ 5 o PR o in_r a M ID'S 5 S^ fe Bl3 a* S'EB -»1 RHi ^ 'A J. •aigs ai.H « -» «> o ■ la r .3 '0 3 to OR S'SS -is a B (D PiOfi< ,J,23Rm Dl O orA B ■S .-3 « Jzi Pi fl< o o O o o o o in o o M 00 ■«(« 10 10 J, o 00 rt o o o o o w o o 00 O Its CO o 00 rt 00 t 3 §" THE WOULD S LIBRARY CONGRESS. 867 6 o o o o o H -A ^ ft to . (O tf V O 0) o U 09 O g Bq'-S toPcQ o o O O o O « ffl 3) F3 ,9 8 a ° a a a " B g o o a ^ S " >> a © fe o F-i o o c a ■a i a M^ agS ;^ S5 Iz; :?; fq ,.S a-e - „ „ ._ a a^ a>9 a ^-3 s * a S.55 a'^ 3 «?S Ss a S3 ' -0.2 < S S ' CDtk a P a a a" Is (D'S o a c] £tj 7^ c; 1^ ■4-' 5 o oj ■^«£-ssaM T 2 *> -a.« :a Or; m o cV^ bo aoga 00 O fe fl ^|2 g - o CO , •- s a* g's ^>- O (U ■§ S S 2 00 _i " n o o -a s = ^ s a a £->< '«) o Iz; P=H ;zi R^ a o ~ :oRa gli B.idl tEfHR ^ W •2.31 gl p. -^S g. O ffl « - _ ft a ^ W; £-• 3 s .1 a .« ® a ■ P S (>*5 So e33 •S &■ - f^ asts S.7J a B 2 t^i 4a a . «S1 « a ! S »- © a ag'fc ooo V CM t! . -a-a o — a a &a 01 o - M H © © .3 >>** £■90 g ^ .2 2 at k^© -I a p<> £ © o fc« '^Oi'd a ;» ■2©-|^:? a-B.S'f |'a;3©-S gl^laa&Jlp? i-5fi(HHiP nWcot -I 9- 2o 3*S cc © ^ - 1^ A m ft ^i^ ©TS ■t) '^ a -R <]-«IJ-. 03 'I a '7 w^ajwrn'O o _ 868 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. m ft 1 C Inconsiderable. No. Tes. To a very limited extent. No experience. ^ o a Or.. ® 9 a .2 > ^ g a 3 O a i i C i c « 1 d d >1 at 1 o 12; / CO.. "I CQ c > (> c c J2 a? .2 "o i I ■ E c ■6 i. .a i 1 C a .S s ^ ^ 1 a. 3 * ^ 1 R 1 as : § ; - 1 ^ ^ 1 1 1 5 1 a "p. 1 4 i d 't a 1 o a <» l> CO ^ OS CO -^ in o o rH M CO .2 o '^ • H 1 . B 2 .»' 3 a 1 q II o n O CC ■^_ 1 Ml 1 c £ s ? ^ H ^ O Cd (Q . 1 > 1 1 It §& il si P o ' I'tg R R ■5 O F-i ; f! c 1 ^^ .9 = 5 1 ft 1 s t-< o 3 8 5^g i |i 1 o'i to 3 S o .s P o in w i! O O) tH g s?s 1 t K § i o ■g i| II p- g A .1 1 ^ "S 5 .2 1 - ? p- 1 s 2 B M i i ^ p. «|| t lpi P a o 1 1 ^ 1 1 -- ^ § o o £ > « - 1 ^. t. £ >> CO S 5 -s s ° tJ !2i g " .f ' ^ -C a ^ ij pfeStHi&SR^ R o M 15 m J3 a" § S p5 Ph - S £> « ■3 .a * •|| 1 1 " 1 .s a !■ S Iz; f^ d o •• !• 1 ^ 8 '1 "' 1 1 -!• § 11 1 1 8 Oi CM OC + 00 s i 8 S 1 § (h O § p<>> go i.s Pja MS 5 S3 S Pi p.a p ft §s «■§ THE WORrc's LIBRARY CONGRESS. 869 ]S"o replies were received from the following libraries : Bancroft Pacific. Baptist TTniou Tlieological Seminai«y. Boston Society of Natural History. Brookline Public. Co^jnccticut Historical So- ciety. Congregational (Boston). Cooper Union. Fall Elver Pxiblic. Georgia State. German Society of Penn- sylvania (Philadelpliia). Grosvenor (Buffalo). Hobart College. Johns Hopkins University. Kentucky State. Lenox. Long Island Historical So- ciety. Louisiana State. Maimonides (New York). , Maryland State. Massachusetts State. Michigan State. Mississippi State. New Jersey State. New York Academy of Medicine. New York Historical So- ciety. New York Law Institute. New York Society. Pennsylvania Historical Society. People's (Newport). Philadelphia College of Physicians. Philadelphia Mutual Li- brary Company. Polytechnic Society of Kentucky. Providence Athenaeum. Rutgers College. St. Mary's Theological Seminary. ABSTKACTS OF EEPOETS. St. Paul Public. San Francisco Mechanics' Institute. SanFrancisco Odd'Fellows'. Silas Bronson (Waterbnry). South Carolina College. Springfield City. Tennessee State. Tulaue University. United States House of Rep- resentatives. United States Patent OfSce. United States State Depart- ment. University of Notre Dame. Virginia State. Wabash College. Watkinson Reference (Hartford). ■Western Theological Semi- nary. Williams College. Library of Congress. — Adjustable or eclectic system; e. g.: Political economy is numbered 25, Government is 25.7, and the label of a book on government might read H, the denominator being the shelf mark. Under each subject books are arranged alphabetically by authors' names, as far as possible, individual biography in six great classes, alphabeted by subjects; collective biography, fiction, poetry, polyg- raphy, etc., by authors. "Would prefer a more thorough subdivision of the great classes of subjects, and an extension of alphabetic arrange- ment by authors. (Ainsworth R. Spofford, LiVn.) Boston Public. — Books arranged on two sides and ends of a large hall, three floors. Space on each side of hall divided into 10 alcoves of 10 ranges each. Movable shelves, numbered from bottom, 0, 1, 2, 3, etc., up to 9 (or 9 « if room for supplementary shelf). Alcoves numbered 21, 22, etc., along one side of room and then back along the other to 40; then 41 is the alcove above 21 and so round on the second floor, while the third floor begins with 61 above 41, and so on. Hence, regu- lar sequence of alcoves, both perpendicularly and horizontally. To designate the shelf four figures are used, thus: in 2675 the figures 26 stand for alcove, 7 for range, and 6 for shelf. To this shelf number is affixed the number of the book (work, not volume) on the shelf, 3852.17 being the seventeenth book on second shelf of fifth range of alcove 38. A volume in a set is indicated by adding its number (date, if a serial) to book number, thus 7537.10,2 or *3115.1 (1877). Books marked * can 870 EDUCATION EEPOET, 1892-93 only be taken out of building bypermission of ofQcer in charge; ** can not circulate; *** permission of trustees required. System devised by tbe late Nathaniel B. Shurtleff [see Eeference list at end of this chapter], and details carried out by the late Prof. C : C, Jewett. One or more alcoves are assigned to each of eighteen grand divisions of subjects, and in each alcove ranges are assigned to certain subdivisions. Public denied access to shelves. Dictionary catalog has no relation to shelf classification. The idea of reclassifying has never been enter- tained for a moment, so no examination of other systems has ever been made. (Theodore P. Dwight, LWn.) Harvard University. — About one-third of the books are classified, filling the present stack; when new stack is finished the rest will be classified. Many subjects are taken out of the general classification, when well rounded as collections, and form indeiiendent groups, e. 19. At present Power's Handy Book About Boolcs, 2978 A 20, is followed on the shelf by Eouveyre's Gonnaissances Ndcessaires, etc., 2978 A 31-32. In the case of serials a nximber is given to a group, and each serial receives a letter, e. g., Library Journal, 2975 A. " The present method seems to work fairly well, and I know of no perfect system as yet evolved." Do not favor very close classification, but would be governed by circumstances in each case. (Geo. Wm. Harris, LiVn.) Enoch Pratt. — System based on Poole's Chicago public hbrary, divided into 26 grand classes designated by letters. In each class the numbers from 1 to 10000 are assigned to subdivisions according to which the books are shelf -listed. The first 10,000 being filled, the num- bers from 1000 to 20000 are in like manner subdivided, etc. ; e. g., works in modern languages being B, German books are to B 1 to 5000 and E 15,000 to 30000; French books, E 5000 to 15000; Spanish books, E 30000 to 40000; Portuguese book, E 40000 to 41000; Italian books, E 50000 to 60000. Not an ideal system, but too much trouble to change. Prefer a more expansible one. (Bernard 0. Steiner, HVn.) Brooklyn. — Library divided into 44 main classes, numbered 1 to 83, some classes having two or three numbers, according to extent, as theol- ogy, 35-37. The 44 classes include about 400 subclasses. In other classes than fiction the shelf mark is made up of class number -f shelf + range + book. Thus, 411.01 means 4 class No. (history), 1 first shelf, of range 1, 01 being first book on the shelf. The books on a given shelf are numbered from 01 to 99, leaving blank numbers for interpolations. In fiction each author has a number, with 5 or 10 spaces of five lines THE world's library CONGRESS. 873 each left between each author for new entries, giving room enough for all additions for next 20 or 30 years, and keeping the arrangement alphabetic. Local significance of shelf number is a great help in finding a book. Generally close classification is desirable, but not as a substi- tute for subject catalog. (W. A. Bardwell, LiVn.) Detroit Public— Dewey modified in detail, but not in principle. "Would not recommend these changes to others, nor any radical depar- ture from Dewey system. Mnemonic feature of notation affords aid and symmetry; has yet to learn that it sacrifices anything that would be more helpful to the practical classifier under the system. (H. M. Utley, LiVn.) Peabody Institute, Baltimore. — System devised by Eev. John G. Morris and P. E. Uhler in 1861. Seven main classes subdivided as required. l^Tot arranged by decimal system "or any other iron-clad method." Each volume marked for floor, alcove, case, and shelf, thus: 1345, meaning floor 1, alcove 3, case 4, shelf 5, of west side of hall. Books shelved on east side of room have similar marks, but with a minus sign prefixed. Cases in alcoves are numbered 1,2, 3, etc., up to 0. Each subject extends from below upwards through the different floors or tiers. No change is contemplated or desired, other than minor ones to suit new conditions. (Philip E. Uhler, LiVn.) Newberry. — Poole method [see Eeferences]. Expands, subdivides, and makes new classes, as the library increases, but does not modify the system in any other respect. " It has always seemed to me that there was a natural way of classifying a library which is self-evident to a practical man who will do his own thinking. It is so simple that it hardly needs an explanation. New attendants, readers, and the public at large take in its meaning at once. I regard the time and ingenuity spent in devising artificial systems of classification and mnemonic notations as wasted energy, and I have long since ceased to give them any attention. I have never read ' the first three figures of the Dewey,' and do not care to; and do not know what 'the first two letters of the Cutter ' are. I do not think the mnemonic element of any value, and will have none of it in mine. What I understand as ' close- classifica- tion ' I regard as a useless fad, or something worse." (Wm. P. Poole, LiVn.) University of Pennsylvania. — Dewey, modified considerably. Ee- ligion and philosophy almost entirely changed. Discard the forta of divisions in the various literatures, except American and English, and reject the period divisions in all. Also many minor changes in subdivisions in all classes. If beginning anew, would use the same, with still larger modifications of Dewey. (Gregory B. Keen, lAVn.) U. S. Surgeon G-eneral's Office. — Books alphabeted by authors, as far as possible, under each of a number of grand divisions, e. g., anatomy, physiology, medicine, surgery, gynaecology and obstetrics, jurispru- dence, ophthalmology, hygiene, etc. Journals and transactions alpha- 874 EDUCATION EEPORT, 1892-93. beted by countries. Pamplilets alphabetic in numbered boxes. Books numbered iu one series. No access to slielves. Index cataloyuc talies place of classification thus far. If classifying anew would divide library into about 80 classes and arrange books alphabetically in each class. (John S. Billings, LiVn.) Pennsylvania State. — Would use a modified Dewey plan. Not wedded to any particular system. (Wm. H. Egle, LiVn.) General Society of Mechanics and Tradesmen "Apprentices"). — If changing the present [Schwartz] system would arrange books according to following scheme of classes: Fiction. 1 Biography. 2 History and geography. » 3 Political and social science. 4 Philosophy and theology. 5 Natural science. G Useful and fine arts. 7 Language and literature. 8 Foreign literature (in other languages than English). 9 Polygraphy. By beginning with fiction (class 0) one number is saved, as the is not written but understood. Two hundred and fifty thousand separate works can be numbered by using only five symbols. Would divide these departments into 1,000 sections, and' these would be so arranged that thej' would form an endless chain. It would then be immaterial where the classification began. Polygraphy would have as its last division juvenile literature, ending with juvenile fiction, thus connecting with class 0, fiction. If making a new classification, would arrange under 1,000 sections in which the subject classes (Nos. 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, of above scheme) would have one section each, but the form classes (Nos. 0, 1, 7, 8, 9) would have not less than 10 nor more than 100 sections each (thus poetry would have 10 sections, biography and fiction 100 each, drama 10, essays 10). "The error that all the current schemes make is to multiply numbers in the most popular classes." Instead of an author-table to number individual books in the subject classes, would simply use the initial of the author, followed by 1, 2, 3, etc. But in the form classes the A, B, etc., would not stand for initial of author, but for a subdivi- sion of one of the sections. Tbus, if poetry has sections 570 to 579, then 571 might stand for authors whose initials are A and B, 578 for S and T, and 578 B for Shakspere, 578 Y for Thomson, and so on. Close classification wastes numbers, and tlierefore wastes time of readers and librarians. (Jacob Schwartz, HVn.) THE world's library CONGRESS. 87-5 G-eorgetown University. — Modifies Dewey by dividing tlieology iuto dogma aud moral. Wliere the Dewey decimal does not suffice, uses letters; e. g., Algonquin lang. is marked 497.1, and tlje 107 dialects are marked '197.1 A, etc. " Dewey's system lias proved to be so satisfactory that it has not occurred to us that any change in our present order is desirable." (J. F. X. Mulvaney, S. J., Lih'n.) Lehigh University. — Dewey, modified by alphabeting all individual biograiihy in one series; no period divisions in literature; in United States local history and geography sectional subdivision stops with the States, all cities, towns, counties, etc., being alphabeted under State. (Wm. H. Chandler, Director.) Worcester Free Public. — Dewey in reference library (48, COO vol- umes), no classification in circulating library (42,400 volumes). More books with four and five figures than with three. Do not care for closer classification than this. (Samuel S. Green, LiVn.) American Antiquarian Society. — Library classified by subjects in alcoves. Books alphabeted on shelves by subjects, by authors, or chronologically. (Edmund M. Barton, LiVn.) California State. — Recently reclassified on a scheme drawn up after careful examination of Dewey, Perkins, Fletcher, and personal inspec- tion of several Eastern libraries. Works in general library grouped in il classes, subdivided to a degree determined by number of books in respective subdivisions. (W. D. Perkins, LiVn.) College of Nevr Jersey. — Eeclassifying the whole library, using, as far as possible, the main divisions of the old system and same sequence, but with a movable location. WUl probably use a 4-flgure class num- ber, followed by a 2, 3, or 4 figure author number, with a third number for the book, thus : 3175.31.3. In this example the author number, 31, represents anything from Charles de Blois to Civerchio in a system which divides the biographic dictionary [Phillips'?] into about 9,000 parts and uses 2, 3, or 4 figures for author number according to size of class. English fiction, poetry, and some other classes have special let- ter marks, letters aud numbers 1-99 being reserved for special libraries or things taken out of logical order. Believe in close classification, but think the later editions of Dewey carry it altogether too far for ijracti- cal use, though some of the sections should be expanded. (Ernest G. Richardson, LiVn.) St. Louis Public. — W: T. Harris system, "on which the Dewey system is based," expanded [see References]. If classifying anew, would revise present system, working in some of the subdivisions of the Dewey. In general, should use mnemonics only so far as can be employed without straining and excessive artificiality. (Frederick M. Crunden, LiVn.) 876 EDUCATION EEPOBT, 1892-93. St. Louis Mercantile. — Applying Cutter's sixtli,witli additions from seventh as fast as it appears. Disregard Cutter notation in literature. Subdivide (and mark) English literature as follows: 1 Collected works. 2 Poetry. 3 Drama. 4 Oratory. 5 Essays. 6 Wit and humor, 7 Fiction. 8 Juveniles [not used]. 9 Folk literature. The principal modern literatures are marked with 2 figures, by adding one or other of the above figures to 1 for Italian, 2 for Spanish, 3 for Portuguese, 4 for French, 5 for Eussian, 6 for Swedish, 7 for Dano- Norwegian, 8 for German, 9 for Dutch. Thus the mark for Itahan poetry is 12, for German fiction it is 87, and so on. This is not confus- ing, as figures alone ave not used in the Cutter notation, and it shortens marks for most-used books very materially. Letters (correspondence) go with biography, and so do criticisms of an author's works. Uses a classification of its own for law. United States Government docu- ments are marked with 3 figures and 2 letters, thus: 422 H B = Forty- second Congress, second session, House Executive. If classifying anew, would use same scheme, still more modified as to notation; or an entirely new one if could spare the time to make it. Mnemonics responsible for most of the faults in Dewey, Cutter, and similar schemes. (Horace Kephart, LiVn.) University of Michigan. — Fixed location. "In our classification we bring together as closely as possible, on the shelves, matter on the same subject. * * * i consult Dewey's, Edmands's, and Perkins's systems more frequently than others." No separate class of biogra- phy; lives of men distributed according to subject with which they were identified. If classifying anew -would use a movable system. (Eay- mond C. Davis, LiVn.) Wisconsin State Historical Society. — Books have no shelf num- bers, and consequently no definite classification. " We hope in the near future to be able to adopt and make use of the best system extant." (Isaac S. Bradley, LiVn.) Browrn University. — Introducing Cutter. Modify wherever re- quired by needs of a university library. Biographies placed with the subject they illustrate. Ehetoric with composition. (Harry L. Koop- man, LiVn.) San Francisco Public — See table. (John Vance Cheney, LWn.) Dartmouth College. — Fixed location, using + to mark north side of room, and — for south side. If changing, would have a limited num- ber of departments marked A, B, etc., subdivided by adding 1, 2, 3, etc., and an author mark similar to Cutter's. (M. D. Bisbee, lAVn.) THE world's library CONGRESS. 877 Cleveland Public. — Dewey, modified by arranging biograpliy (indi- ■ vidual), poetry, essays, novels, and stories for the young alphabetically, and by redistributing numbers in some classes. • If beginning anew, would retain tlie alphabetic arrangement, but would not vary from Dewey in any other way, the convenience of shorter numbers and desirable readjustments being more than counterbalanced by incon- venience of departing from the printed form. Carry the Dewey out to 6 or even 7 figures when necessary, and think it pays. (Wm. H. Brett, Lib'n.) Buffalo. — Dewey, modified in detail but not in principle. Prefer an eclectic system. Favor close classification to a certain extent, dependent on size and character of library and of the various classes. Mnemonics useful within limits, but not when applied as a system throughout. J. N. Larned, Sujpt.) United States Senate. — See table. (Alonzo W. Church, lAVn.) Union Theological Seminary. — Classification based upon divisions in Hagenbach's Theologisclie UncyMopadie. Added to these are other divisions for the non -theological books, which are arranged largely according to frequency of use. San Francisco Theological Seminary library arranged in same manner. "I consider a ' close ' classiiication a delusion and a snare, as it is not the practice of men to write many books which lend themselves to it. * * * Even such 'close' classification as I have carried out wastes space, and ultimately leads to confusion." (Chas. E. Gillett, LiVn.) IVIilviraukee Public. — Except as to fiction, Dewey system not greatly modified. Scheme as used is printed in catalog of 18S5. Changes from original are almost entirely those made for Bufl'alo library. Would change biography entirely, probably alphabeting all individual lives in one series. [If classifying anew?] "This question I could only answer after the most careful thought and comparison, and then in fear and trembling, if the necessity came. We are bound to the Dewey classification, and any ideas of change are playthings merely. We feel the pinches of the Dewey scheme, but I might hesitate to change on the principle of the first swarm of flies and the fox. I admire the new Cutter expansive classification. It, naturally, solves many of the Dewey problems; but I think the mixed letters and numbers of the notation an objection. It is comparatively simple for attendants to learn any scheme, but the general public is troubled by a hieroglyphic- looking book number. I think the general tendency is to underrate this difiSculty." [Close classification?] "Decidedly, yes. If the dream of access of borrowers to the shelves ever is realized, I think the shelf classification will be even more important than now. My only objec- tion is the more complicated notation required." [Mnemonics?] "All other things being equal, the mnemonic element is sometimes a con- venience. It hardly seems worth much sacrifice, however. (Theresa West Acfg LiVn.) 878 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. New York Free Circulating. — Modifies Dewey by using 813 for juvenile fiction, and placing novels by American authors, as well as translations of foreign fiction, with English fiction in 823. Has felt crowd- ing and restriction in 808, collections, treatises, rhetoric. \ Mnetnoniesf] " Wo do not see that it costs anything, and it is invaluable in directing runners in finding books." (Ellen M. Coe, LWn.) San Francisco Mercantile. — Dewey, with Cutter author marks. "Have no changes to suggest, inasmuch as both systems seem to suit our purpose admirably." Uses 3 figures of Dewey. " For special libraries would think a closer classification indispensable." (H. E. Coleman, LiVn.) Minneapolis Public. — Did not modify Edmands in principle, but reduced it by combining many subclasses and changing author nota- tion from 10,000 to 1,000. Eegret this change. "Those who have not used close classification sooner or later need to do it, and the seventh classification of Mr. Cutter seems none too close." (James K. Hosmer, UVn.) Providence Public. — Use a decimal system strongly resembling the Dewey in notation. '' It is not the Dewey system; but this is simply owing to the fact that some system had to be adopted before the Dewey system had been so fully developed as it is at present. If I were, start- ing anew, I should not hesitate to take the Dewey system as it now stands. I favor the opportunity of being able to use a ' closer' classi- fication than ' the first 3 figures,' on occasion. As a matter of fact, we seldom go beyond 4 figures." [See Mr. Foster's paper in L. jA 5 : 6-9.] (Wm. E. Foster, LiVn.) Essex Institute. — See table. (Cha's. S, Osgood, LiVn.) Amherst College. — "Dewey system was employed here first, in 1874, and remains. The scheme is modified constantly, mainly by divid- ing or combining classes, and, in doing so, disregarding the decimal plan and the Dewey notation. Wo classify various departments of the library with respect to their special needs, and have no special refer- ence to the scheme as a whole in making these changes." If classi- fying anew would use " In the main, that outlined by me in L.j. 14." Favor close classification, " but in general would make classes no more minute than Dewey 3- figure classes, and make further subdivisions by blocking off book numbers." Do not think mnemonic notations worth their cost, " but have not given the matter enough attention to speak positively." (Wm. I. Fletcher, LiVn.) Young Men's Mercantile, Cincinnati.— Biography alphabeted by subjects; miscellany, history, travels, fine arts, poetry, science, etc., alphabeted by authors. No shelf numbers. "As I have but two assist- ants, we put away every morning the books brought in the day before, and, as we have to classify them to put them in their proper divisions, a knowledge of the contents of every book must be bad. In that way we are hardly ever at fault when books on any particular subject are asked THE world's LIBEAEY CONGRESS. 879 for; ^ve can get what is wanted -without reference to the catalog. The systems of numbering on the outside of the book I object to as prac- tically debarring librarians from what they should know, i. e., the contents of every book. As librarian for fifteen years, I have exam- ined many systems, but find none that I would use." (John M. Newton, Libhi.) New Bedford Public— HavS used a very broad classification owing to crowded shelves. Beginning to apply Dewey. (R. C. Ingraham, Li¥n.) Hartford Theological Seminary. — (Case Memorial). — Applying a system prepared for specialized theological library, with 26 general ■ classes marked A-Z, each with foi'm divisions 01-0&, and subdivisions 0-9. Full outline submitted. It is very interesting, and the compiler regrets that he has not space to print it verbatim. Use Cutter author- table and local list. Example of labels : CF88 E2G31 __F 12_ H 74 K9846 Z63 E 11 ' L 96 ' 1874B 72 ' T 45 ' M 37 ' la71 P 73' If changing would put biography before history. " I think that, as in building a bouse, so in making a classification, it needs about three trials to make a success. In my opinion Cutter has done the best work in classification of any whose work I have seen." (A. T. Perry, LiVn.) Indianapolis Public. — Library divided into twenty-three main classes, A-Z. Fiction and juveniles arranged alphabetically by authors; other classes, by subjects. Books (separate works) in each class num- bered from 1 upwards, as A 1-A 750, Numbers plentifully skipped to leave room for new books. In case of a block, another letter is added; e.g., A 600, A 601, AA 001, AB 601, A C02. Same system used in Omaha Public. "I do not like this system, and if it were not for the magni- tude of the work, would change; but am not prepared at present to say which one I would choose." (Eliza G-. Browning, LiVn.) Princeton Theological Seminary. — Two main divisions: (1) Theo- logical, with 7 subdivisions marked A-G, and (2) secular, with 14 sub- divisions marked I-XIV. Books alphabeted under each subdivision. (Joseph H. Dulles, LiVn.) University of Virginia. — Library grouped in 15 divisions, alpha- beted thereunder. Fixed location. (F. W. Page, LiVn.) Haverhill Public— See table. (Edward Capen, LiVn.) Minnesota Historical Society.— Overcrowded. When new build- ing is completed will use Cutter. (J. Fletcher Williams, LiVn.) 880 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. University of California. lowing is a brief outline: -Applying new system, of which the fol- A Bibliography. 440 Paleontology. B Dictionaries. 442 Botany. C Periodicals. 461 Zoology. 1-15 Philosophy. 480 Medicine. 16-51 Religion. 506 Industrial arts. 52 Biography. 507 Agriculture. 54 Geography. 523 Chemistry. 54-255 Geography and history. 536 Chemical technology. 256-287 Politics; administration. 554 Mining. 289-296 Law. 580 Manufactures. 300 Social science. 590 Building arts. 315-332 Economics. 600 Architecture. 333 Science. 610 Domestic economy. 337-356 Mathematics. 613 Recreation. 357-371 Astronomy. 617 Business. 372 Physics; mechanics. 623 Art of war. 401 Civil engineering. 640 Esthetics. 425 Natural history. Fine arts. 431 Geology. -999 Languages and literatures Class subdivisions are made by adding a lower-case letter or letters, of which a, b, c, invariably stand for bibliographies, dictionaries, and periodicals, respectively. Example: 305. Education. 305a. Bibliography. 305b. Cyclopedias, dictionaries. 305c. Periodicals. 305d. History of education. 305e. Pedagogics; teaching. 305em. Teaching of mathematics. 305m. Classical, "liberal," education. 305n. Technical, industrial education. 305w. Woman's education; coeducation. 305z. Biographies of educators. Bowdoin College. — Dewey. Biography and genealogy alphabeted in one collection marked B. Lives of kings placed in history; of literary men, with their works. A special class marked M, with several hun- dred subdivisions, takes the place of 974.1, and includes special collec- tion on Maine. If the system were to be made over, would demand more room for English history, abetter place for constitutional history, and an entire recasting of Greek and Latin literature. "In general, I should ask to have the classes fit the books rather than the system, and leave occasional places for a new subject. * * * We do not, however, intend to break away in any important particular from the Dewey system. * * * ^if classifying anew?] I can not answer without a fuller examination of Mr. Cutter's system. I think I should THE world's library CONGRESS. 881 prefer that, in case some genius would arrange a numerical notation for the various subdivisions, on the basis, say, of 10,000 possible classes." (Geo. T. Little, LiVn.) American Philosophical Society. — Uses " a remarkable system invented by a prior librarian, dissimilar to all mentioned [in the circu- lar of inquiry]. * * * It is far from satisfactory, but has been in use too long to change." The system is printed in catalog of above library, 1863. (Henry Phillips, jr., LWn.) Lovrell City. — Dewey, to only three figures for shelving, decimals for catalog. In 822 the Shaksperiana are numbered from 6000 upwards, and other books 1-5000. "Where the readers do not have access to shelves I see no advantage in a closer classification than the first three figures of Dewey; certainly not for a library no larger than ours," (Fred. A. Chase, LiVn.) Trinity College. — Dewey, somewhat modified in theology. (Fred- erick B. Cole, LiVn.) Andover Theological Seminary. — Books grouped in seventeen classes, as far as shelves permit, " recognizing such subdivisions as may be natural and convenient." "For library purposes I should wish to avoid minute subdivision." (Wm. L. Ropes, LiVn.) Nevr York State. Lave. — Outline of classification : 1 a New York reports. b Kew York digests of reports. c E"ew York statutes. , d New York legislative journals and documents. 2 American reports, digiests, and statutes. a States. b United States. 3 Amer. state papers (including legislative debates, journals, and documents), a States, b United States. 4 British reports and digests (including provinces, except India). 5 British state papers (including parliamentary debates, jour- nals, and documents). 6 Indian reports and statutes. 7 Treatises (in English). 8 Law periodicals. 9 Trials (civil and criminal). 10 France. a Treatises. b Eeports. c Statutes. 11 Foreign law (other than French). Statutes and state papers arranged chronologically; all other books alphabeted under author or title, as usually cited. No book numbers. ED 93 56 882 " Convenience of bench and bar determines classification cf a law library. Lawyers must have access to shelves, and they greatly prefer to help themselves to the books wanted. Hence the classification should be as simple and compact as possible. A lawyer finds it much easier to run down the alphabet through a collection of 2,000 volumes of treatises to find the volume wanted than to have the same collection divided into 100 lots representing as many subjects. In tlie latter case, he has^rsiS to find the subject, and second to find the volume. It is seldom that a lawyer wishes to see all or any considerable number of the works con- tained in the library. His inquiry usually is for the latest and best work on' the topic ho is interested in. From an experience of twenty- five years as librarian of this library, I am able to say that the method of classification outlined [above] * • * has given the very best satisfaction. (Stephen B. Griswold, LtVn.) Lynn Public. — Classification includes nineteen main classes and marked by initial of subject, or other letter, subdivided by adding a second letter, and still further, if desired, by figures. " My plan was adopted after studying all the methods then [1878J in use. It has givea good satisfaction; but if I were called to arrange a new library I should make a study of all methods now in use. I am favorably impressed with the Cutter system. I do not favor very close classification for libraries of ordinary size." (J. C. Houghton, LilPn.) University ofVermont. — Dewey. Biography alphabeted; lives of authors with their works. (H. A. P. Torrey, LiVn.) Illinois State. — Eough topical groupings. Memoryof librarian the only guide in finding books. (W. H. Hinriehsen, See. of State and ex off. LiVn.) Omaha Public. — See table. (Jessie Allan, LiVn.) Peoria Public— See table. (E. S. Willcox, LilPn.) Iowa State.— See table. (Mrs. Mary H. Miller, LiVn.) Wellesley College. — DewcJ^ Would change sequence of classes, bringing history and sociology on succeeding numbers; so also litera- ture and language, and biography with history. (Lydia B. Godfrey, LiVn.) Sage Library. (Theol. Se7n., Neiv Brvnsiviclc., W. J.). — Uses " a com- mon sense, illogical, unconcatenated, unrelated, unnumbered, unclas- sified classification. Consult an encyclopedia and x)ut coal under coal, and don't try to reason out that it belongs in the same category with diamonds or pig iron. The public won't reason your way. Put it down arbitrarily coal, and let it go. It is worth while classifying some related subjects, but it is not worth while to show the logic of the classifica- tion to any great extent. On the shelf, or in the alcove or department, put all the fine arts together, poetry, painting, sculpture, architecture, drama. Put engraved gems there, too, but don't insist on it that it is a part of sculpture — a division, or a subdivision. Let it stand appar- ently unrelated. * * * We classify our books in alcoves, referring THE world's library CONGRESS. 883 in catalog to tlie alcove, right or left side of it. When in the alcove the shelf tags do the rest. No numbers on the books, which are alpha- beted by author, under subject. This would probably not work well in a large public library, but in a small scholars' library like this ft does very well. We have too many rare and handsomely bound books to plaster them over with labels or stamped numbers. The great still- hunt of library science at present seems to be after finding a hoolc on the shelf. As to whether it is worth a rap after it is found, your aver- age librarian does not concern himself; yet that is just the most impor- tant part of his business. He should guide to the best books and toll the reader what he needs. If librarians knew more about the value of books and less about their number, the public would be better for it. Of course this is an old fogy idea. I got it from an old fogy in the British Museum many years ago. His name is Richard Garnett — bless him! * * * I believe in many subjects unclagsifled. Two books on suicide should have a subject division of suicide, but should not figure under the chief head of medicine, social science, or anything of that sort. I don't believe in any system that presupposes knowledge or ability or insight in the reader. The average reader is a dunce and neither knows ior cares anything about systems. Further, I don't believe in making an obscure science out of a few plain facts. Make everything as plain as a barn door." (John C. Van Dyke, Lib'n.) Maine State. — Dewey. Classification of law modified and enlarged. Dewey classification of law very defective; that of history nearly i)er- fect. Recommends bringing form divisions of literature (as fiction) together and subdividing by languages, instead of the reverse. Will use Cutter's author table. " Some of his [Dewey's] great classes are not clearly defined and entirely logical in arrangement. Nevertheless, it seems to me that Dewey's work is the best I have seen. Some of our librarians have run nearly mad on the subject of classification, and have rendered life a burden to those who attempted to carry out fully their theoretical classification. The simplest form is best, in this as in everything else intended for real help and use." (L. D. Carver, LiVn.) Syracuse University. — Uses provisionally a fixed location, but books are so arranged that, as far as possible, the initial of the subject division corresponds with the letter of stack section. " The intention is to have a relative system eventually. From what I have seen of the several systems I think that none now in use will be absolutely adopted, but a modification of some one of them, or a new one entirely." (Henry O. Sibley, UVn.) Ne'w York Y. M. C. A. — Dewey. Changes suggested; index en- larged. History, travels, biography, too crowded; medicine under science; amusements under sociology. [If beginning anew?] "Ithink I should adopt the same system; I, however, might use Mr. Noyes' (Brookljm) admirable system after a more thorough .study of it," (E. B. Poole, LiVn.) 884 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. New York Bar Association. — Eeports and statute law, arranged by countries and States. Text-books, etc., alphabetically by authors, (Wm. J. C. Berry, Li¥n.) '' Philadelphia Athenaeum. — See table. (Louis K. Lewis, lAVn.) Wesleyan University. — See table. (Wm. J. James, LiVn.) Woodstock College.— Library largely theological. Theology in 10 divisions, of which, e. g., scriptura sacra subdivided into Biblia (Latina, Grseca, etc.), Introductio, Vindicise Cathol., Philolog. Biblica, Coneor- dantiae, Comment. Cathol., Comment. Acathol., Tractatus Varii, etc. Fixed location. " "Were I to begin the arrangement of the library anew I should follow the same method. * # # For practical purposes it matters very little whether I find a book according to the decimal sys- tem or any other. In my opinion classification should depend entirely, on the particular library, on the room, and the number of books to be placed." (A. J. Maas, LiVn.) Ne'wark Public. — Dewey, unimportant modifications. Sometimes carries classification to 5 figures, but " for small libraries should say most decidedly not closer than 3 of D.ewey." (Frank P. Hill, LiVn.) Cambridge Public. — Cutter classification. Moved into new build- ing just after issuing a new catalog, and could not change notation, which was that of the Boston Public, now used to indicate movable location. " Were I to start anew I should choose between Cutter's arid Dewey's systems; should prefer the former, only the introduction of letters very much increases the probability of mistakes on the part of the public. * * * i have arranged my reference library by the Dewey system and like it for that. I should not iise either for a small library — say less than 10,000 volumes." (Almira L. Hay ward, LiVn.) Franklin Institute. — Broad classification, fixed location. Would use Dewey, with Cutter's aiithor table, classifying as closely as possible. (Alfred Eigling, LiVn.) Hartford Public. — Dewey, with modifications, partly Fletcher's. English fiction, biography, poetry, arranged alphabetically. French, German, juveniles, by themselves, classified. (Miss C. M. Hewins, LiVn.) Oberlin College. — Dewey, modified. In the classics and Shakspere all translations, biographies, criticisms, etc., go with author's works. With these exceptions the Dewey author marks in literature are dis- regarded, and alphabetic arrangement used, as also in biography. Periodicals indexed in Poole, arranged alphabetically by themselves, no class number; so also reference books. United States documents have a classification and notation of their own. Changes suggested: Combine philosophy and religion under class 1 ; combine 110 and 120 with their subdivisions; put 178 under sociology. Define more accu- rately 210 and subdivisions, and their relations to 239 and subdivisions; entirely rewrite 230, especially 231 and 233, which are very unsatisfac- tory; rewrite 262, bringing all prayer under 264, and therefore change THE world's LIBEARY CONGRESS. 885 maiu divisions. Under class 300, rewrite 321 and 328, putting 328 somewhere under 350, all of which should be rewritten with reference to books and not to theoretical division. Class 570 is unsatisfactory. Should forego advantages of in 900-909, putting geography and travel under 900-909, biography 910-920, and what is now 900-910 under 920-930. " Though from standpoint of classiiication I like some parts of Cutter much better, still the simj)licity of the Dewey call num- bers, or, rather, the ease with which the average student can use tliem after a short period, is too great an advantage to give up." (A. S. Eoot, lAVn.) Pratt Institute. — Dewey, carried out to 3 figures only, save in a few classes. Does not favor closer classification except for libraries of 60,000 volumes and upwards. (Mary W. Plummer, LiVn.) Portland (Me.) Public. — See table. (Alice C. Furbish, Acfg LiVn.) Newton Public. — Fixed location, except for periodicals. Library divided into 10 classes. Example of notation : 51.430 = class 5, shelf 1, 430th work. (Elizabeth P. Thurston, lAVn.) Massachusetts Historical Society. — See table. (Samuel A. Green, LiVn.) Redvrood, Newport. — Cutter's Athenaeum, occasionally modified by transposing subdivisions, as in sociology. "As I have worked for sev- eral years with Mr. C. in elaborating his classification, I feel sufficiently familiar with it to be able to make the changes without confusion." Prefer Cutter's sixth. {Mnemonic notations loorth their cost?] "By no means ! ! Except for some few grand divisions, I have little faith in the mnemonic element." (Kichard Bliss, LiVn.) Taunton Public. — Awaiting removal into larger building before introducing new classification on the shelves. (E. C. Arnold, LiVn.) United States Military Academy. — See table. (Lieut. Sedgwick Pratt, LiVn.) Manchester City. — Cutter classification in catalog. Books num- bered consecutively on shelves. Ko class marks. Would use Cutter. (Mrs. M. J. Buncher, .LiVn.) Hamilton College. — See table. (Melvin G. Dodge, LiVn.) Philadelphia Academy of Natural Sciences.— Library devoted exclusively to natural sciences j divided into two sections: (1) Periodi- cals, etc., arranged geographically, and (2) monographs, subdivided under IS heads. Books numbered consecutively under each depart- ment. " The desirability of a closer classification in some of the depart- ments * * * is evident, but not pressing. Practically the arrangement works very well, the fixed location of each book being of advantage." If changing, would probably use Dewey, with modifications. (Edw. J. Nolan, LiVn.) Bangor Public. — See table. (Mary H. Curran, LiVn.) Jersey City Public. — Dewey, with Cutter author numbers. "I would carry out the classification to one or two decimals in all casea 886 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. where subdivisious are called for were I to start anew. In t^ie Gutter numbers I would also use the table extended to three figures instead of the one using only two. The main difQculty we have is in getting the. books back on their shelves in their correct order with the help we em- ploy — girls from 14 to 16 years of age. The combination of figures and letters seems to puzzle them, and requires mote care than if only figures or letters were used separately. If some author table like Edmands's, composed entirely of figures, were carefully worked out and had proved satisfactory in its application, I am not sure but that with the class of help employed in this library it would work more satisfactorily than the Cutter tables." # * * " The mnemonic element is certainly very valuable after the system is in practice." (Geo. Watsou Cole, LiVn.) Peabody Institute, Peabody, Mass. — Cutter. "As we shall not change anything at present, it is unnecessary for me to venture an opinion [as to choosing anew]. Probably in five years some of the present systems » * * -will be changed for something simpler aud more economical." (J. Warren Upton, LiVn.) Toledo Public. — Dewey, modified. Eecommends " greater simplic- ity, not so close classification. The excess in numbers added is often perplexing to those going for books in a hurry." (Mrs. Prances D. Jer- maiu, LiVn.) La-wrence (Mass.) Public. — "In a library where the public do not have access to the shelves a close classification is not of much impor- tance. If the assistants can find the books readily that is all that is nec- essary. The fewer letters and numbers borrowers have to write on the call slips the bettei they are suited, and the less likely are they to make mistakes. All frequenters of the library have access to classed cata- logs, and can find books treating of any particular subject." (Frederic H. Hedge, LiVn.) United States Naval Academy. — Ten main classes, A-I, with subdivisions, 1-50, etc. Would prefer " some system with more than 10 classes." (A. N, Brown, LiVn.) Dayton Public. — Twenty main classes, subdivided as convenient. "From the experience which we have had, taking into consideration the size of library, present rate of growth, character of help employed, promptness of service, etc., we would use the same principle of classifi- cation [if beginning anew], only apphed iu greater detail, and carried out to its last consequences. The result would be an arrangement much like that of the Congressional Library or the Peabody Institute (Baltimore)." (Miss Minta I. Dryden, LWn.) Kansas State. — Smith, with additions. Would use Dewey — "so "Bays my cataloger." (H. J. Dennis, LiVn.) San Francisco La'w. — Legal text-books arranged alphabetically; American reports alphabetically by States; English reports alphabet- ically as cited; United States, State, and foreign statutes same arrange- ment; legal periodicals follow same plan. No class marks. (Not signed.) THE world's LIBRAEY CONGRESS. 887 Woburn Public. — "Iii 1879 was introduced tUe Dewey 1, 2, 3 system, tlie classes represented by a letter (a numeral would do equally as good) and the individuals by a number, This is still in use,- unmodified." [Mnemonics useful?] "No; I do not believe in burdening patrons with an unnecessary number of symbols. They mean nothing to them, and not much more to anyone else. The old-fashioned shelf number (say 5553.25) is best understood by the public generally." (W. E. Cutter, IdVn.) Boston Library Society. — See table. (Miss Letitia F. Stubbs, LiVn.) loAva State University. — " The Dewey has so far been reasonably- satisfactory, hence see no reason to change." (J. W. Eich, Idb'n.) Nebraska State.- — Largely law. Miscell aneous division classified somewhat after Perkins's method. Expects to add largely to the latter, and will then reclassify, deciding upon a system after publication of this report. (D. A. Campbell, LiVn.) St. Louis University. — Dewey. "The purposes of a public library, to be used by all classes of persons, and those of a learned institution being considerably divergent, I find that the mechanical application of the above [Dewey] system, which has already been made here, is defect- ive in many resi)eets : (1) Because of the superfluity of classes for a purpose more or less specialized; (2) because of the unimijortant local- ization assigned to the prime divisions, in the same premises. * * * [Cites examples in theology.] If there is any oiie of the above systems [mentioned in circular of inquiry] which would meet our requirements, I should be glad to adopt it. Otherwise [if changing] I would take sug- gestions from them and strike out on the above line [outlined]." * * * (Thos. Hughes, S. J., LiVn.) Troy Young Men's Association.— Fixed. Alphabeted under a few general divisions. " I believe that the most simple arrangement and classification of books is, under any and all circumstances, the best method. Close classification destroys chances for memorizing place, contents of volume, and general usefulness, is costly, and of no real value." (DeWitt Clinton, LiVn.) University of Minnesota.— By departments of instruction. No class marks. When moving into new building will carefully consider plans of classification and shelving. Classification in subject catalog based upon Poole's Chicago Public; full outline submitted in MS. " For a college library of moderate size it seems to me that a rough classification according to the departments of instruction will be as useful as any." (Wm. W. Folwell, LiVn.) University of the South.— Dewey. In literature follows Dewejr only to third figure, and in biography to the fourth ; Cutter marks there- after in each case; so also in 283; elsewhere, the 5-place Dewey. "If I had the work to begin again I shonld be content with three places for a library the size of om\s." (Benj. W. Wells, LiVn.) 888 EDUCATION REPOKT, 1892-93. Los Angeles Public. — Dewey. Fiction and juveniles alphabetic, closely following Milwaukee notation. In music, "where Dewey gives 782.2 to a book on Wagnerian music, we would classify the music itself 78.22, i. e., simply carry the third number over the decimal." Bound magazines arranged alphabetically. United States public documents have a non-Dew ey classification. If beginning again, would classify- very closely. (Tessa L. Kelso, LiVn.) Nevrburyport Public— fJ/" classifying anew f] " This is a question I can not answer. The more I study the various schemes, the harder I find it to come to a decision ; but, on the whole, I rather favor the Dewey system, modified to meet my particular case, but I have no desire to establish a museum of minute classification." (John D. Parsons, LiVn.) Haverford College. — [Would use?] "Probably a modification of Perkins. Lack of funds and hope of a new building have prevented revision. No system should be followed rigidly. Whatever gives most economy of space, clearness in detail, ease in finding a book, should be 'followed in accordance with circumstances. Dare to be inconsistent." (Allen O. Thomas, LiVn.) University of Wisconsin. — Within a year will probably adopt either Dewey or Cutter, with modifications. "Our present classifica- tion in its large divisions corresponds to departments of instruction in the university, and naturally and rightly, 1 must think, sins against any theoretical system of classification in some points." (Walter M. Smith, LiVn.) Massachusetts Institute! of Technology. — Dewey. " Have redi- vided 547, and have subdivided further a few of the divisions. There are many arrangements which aie inconvenient for us, for example, the separation of 400 and 800, of 380 and 330, of 332 and 336, of 335 and 331. The principles of the system seem to me about as simple and easily learned as possible." [Close classification?] "Yes; where access to the shelves is perfectly free the closest possible classification seems to me desirable." (Clement W. Andrews, LiVn.) Colby University. — Dewey in galleries; fixed location on ground floor (most-used books). Free access. Ko shelf numbers. "Am very well pleased with the [Dewey] system." Often use 7 figures. Make no use of mnemonics. (Edward W. Hall, LiVn.) University of Rochester. — " The Dewey system (4th ed.) is used in classifying new books and in a gradual reclassification of the older por- tion of the library. This was ddne last January, a new librarian having been appointed from the faculty of instruction. Being shown this blank upon its receipt, he turned it over to me to answer. His opinion of the Dewey system is more favorable, of our obsolescent system much less favorable, than those herein expressed." A full outline of the old sys- tem is given in MS. It has 42 main classes, with more or less subdivi- sion, the books being arranged under each according to a combined alphabetical-and-size table (1-1000) adapted from Schwartz. " In the THE world's library CONGRESS. 889 details of the Dewey'systeni I flud what seem to me to be the disjunc- tion of similars and the conjunction of dissimilar s, as well as the failure •to give adequate treatment to some important subjects. * * * Personally, I think the obsolescent system, * * * with some further subdivision in th'e case of a few classes, is adequate to the purposes of a college library till it attains a much larger size than ours." (H. K. Phinney, A&sH LWn.) College of the City of New York. — Books classed under 14 main divisions and 270 subdivisions, corresponding to headings in printed subject catalog. Present system satisfactory. (Chas. G. Herbermann, lAVn.) Kansas State Historical Society. — See table. (F. G. Adams, LiVn.) Northvrestern University. — Awaiting a new building. (Lodilla Ambrose, AssH LiVn.) Salem Public. — Dewey, with 3 figures, except in history and travels, where 4or 5areused; Fforall flctioninEnglish, original or translated; B for individual biography, with Cutter number; 920 for collective biog- raphies in one series by authors. Suggested changes: A better coun- try arrangement ; consolidation of philology and literature, giving room for better arrangement of travels. If beginning anew, would adopt Cutter's sixth. "This seems to me about what is needed in the aver- age public library of 10,030 to 100,000 volumes. Nearly all the neces- sary subdivisions can be made with two letters, or one letter and two figures." (Gardner M. Jones, LiVn.) Rochester Theological Seminary.— Theology only. See table. (Howard Osgood, LiVn.) Northampton Public. — Books classified in nine departments. (Caro- line S. Laidley, LiVn.) Fletcher Free, Burlington, Vt. — Similar to Brookline and Ames Library at Korth Easton, Mass. (Sarah C. Hagar, LiVn.) North Carolina State.— See table. (J. C. Ellington, LiVn.) South Carolina State. — Contains only United States and State documents. "I have had no [previous] experience in library work and have no system. I have arranged the books just after a common-sense plan,-.aiid as it seems to work well I have attempted nothing else. Being a woman, and having very little experience, I do not feel competent to make any suggestions. Each State in the Union is given space and the books are arranged according to years. The members of the legis- lature tell me that this plan suits them better than any that has ever been tried in this library." (Mrs. Caroline Le Conte, LiVn.) SUMMARY OF RETURNS. To put the results of this canvass into a ballot box and figure out exactly how many librarians favor this or the other method, would be most misleading, for several reasons. Other things being equal, the experience gathered in a library of 500,000 volumes is worth about ten 890 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. times as much, from the classifier's standpoiut, as that afforded by work- ing in one of 50,000 volumes. The answers to my queries are in some cases intended to apply to libraries generally, but most of the librarians have had only their own institutions in view, and, as these differ so widely from each other in scope and functions, it is certain that the same man might have answered differently if his experience had been confined to libraries of another class. Many of the oificers reporting have given bat slight attention to the methods introduced within the past few years, being satisfied with the systems bequeathed to them or finding it quite impracticable to change. Finally, many of the replies are indefinite, and a few are ambiguous. The only summary of results that I can glean from these returns is as follows : 1 American librarians are substantially agreed that books should be classified on the shelves in the order of subjects treated rather than in that of accession, or chronologically, alphabetically, by size alone, or by any other criteria, leaving the subarrangement (under classes) to be determined by the requirements of each case. This is the only point in the problem of classification that can be considered settled. 2 One-half of the libraries reporting, including most of the older and larger ones, use systems of their own. 3 Of the printed schemes that have appeared within the past seven- teen years, the Dewey system, which is the oldest, is used wholly or partly in one-third of the libraries on our list. Mr. Cutter's expansive system (not yet finished) is rapidly growing in favor. The others are little used. 4 Most of the users of the printed schemes modify them more or less. The chief objections urged against the Dewey, Cutter, and similar sys- tems are that the classification is arbitrary, that it is bound up in its •notation, and that the latter is too comiilicated or too long. 5 A movable location is generally preferred to fixed shelf numbers, but some librarians of wide experience reject it. 6 The tendency is strongly toward close classification, but it is warmly opposed by many. 7 Mnemonic notations are condemned by a majority of those express- ing an opinion, but in a considerable number of libraries such expe- dients are foiind useful. This is all that I have been able to make out of the mass of data sub- mitted to me. Librarians agree that books should be classified by subjects on the shelves as well as in catalogs, but they disagree as to how it should be done. Take, for example, the largest five libraries in Ameiica; no two of them use the same system, and their replies to the three fundamental questions in our table in each case stand as follows: Yes ; 2 No 2 ^No exporieuco 1 THE woeld's libeaey coxgress. 891 I conclude tliat the day of cooperjitive classifying is not yet, and that if such a project ever be realized it will only come through the work of a committee of experts. No one man is competent. Granting that it would be practicable to parcel out the labor of devising a system for classifying books, so that each science and art would be subdivided by a specialist, the gain would be twofold : 1 Each librarian would save the time and exijense of devising a scheme of his own, or of patching up the antiquated one bequeathed to him ; and ■2 A system prepared by such a body would give greater promise of permanence and general usefulness than any drawn up by the average librarian. It is evident that the same system can not be used in all kinds of libraries. Yet if we take any two university libraries, for examijle, or any two free popular libraries, it will be found that they diiier from each other mostly iii size or in degree of symmetry, but not in scope, nor in the character and wants of their users. I can see no good reason why all libraries of a given class might not use the same general method with mutual advantage. The principal reason why such a scheme has not been undertaken is clearly stated in Professor De Morgan's objection to a classed catalog, that "it is more difficult to use than to make, being one man's idea of the subdivision of knowledge." No system for classifying books in large libraries can give general satistiaction unless it be based on something more durable than per- sonal taste. In order to bo reasonably permanent and usable, the method adopted must be governed by some underlying principle of association which is commonly accepted by students in the different departments of knowledge. The question as to whether a uniform system of classification may be practicable for a given class of libraries, resolves itself into the question whether a method can be found which will be scientific rather than arbitrary. All schemes looking only to present conveniences must soon result in that confusion which reigns in nearly all great libraries at the present day ; a confusion which makes library service doubly expensive, and causes those irritatiag delays with which scholars the world over are but too familiar. But it is objected that no logical classification of books is possible, owing to these two facts : 1 The same books may treat successively of many different things; that is to say, it may be of composite structure, or even a conglomerate. 2 A book may discuss a problem involving many entirely diverse principles and branches of knowledge. Consequently our classes will necessarily overlap, and the boundary lines between them will be shadowy. But precisely the same difficulties arise when we attempt to classify anything else whatsoever. There may be as many different classiflca- 892 tions of a thing as it lias characteristics which may be measured against those of other things, and these various classifications may he equally logical, equally scientific. Three dimensions of space would not suffice to show for any one thing in nature all of the relationships that it bears to other things. Nothing of this sort has been attempted in any science, and it is unfair to criticise a classification of books on the ground that it does not bring all correlatives together. When we .come to conglomerates, such as a volume of essays, or Burton's "Anat- omy of Melancholy," we must classify them just as a geologist classifies the conglomerate rocks, by form or locality, rather than by composition or structure. There is no greater difficulty in the one case than in the otjjer. The boundary lines between our classes will often be vague and shadowy. But so they are in any classification. We do not even know where plant life stops and animal life begins; yet that does not prevent our having a science of botany and. another of zoology. The object of a classification is to bring together things which are like and to separate things which are unlike. It is as easy to bring together books of similar scope as to bring together plants of similar type. If different types of plants can be arranged in a system which will show their relative development, so can the literature of plants be arranged with scientific method, and so can all literature. It is a singular fact that many schemes of classification are enslaved to their notations. The attempt to make out of the book number a structural formula, showing the dependence of classes by giving a sep- arate figure or letter to each stage of descent, invariably results in an irrational classification disfigured with long and cabalistic marks. The object of a notation is to enable us to find or replace a book with ease and certainty. Anything that interferes with this is a mistake. The scheme of classification should be made without any thought of a nota- tion, and numbers assigned to it afterwards, taking care to allow for the future growth of the various classes. By using a book number, which shall in no case be longer or more com; plicated than 1234az (in which the figures are read as integers, and tl^e order of figures and letters is always the same), it is possible to mark 7,000,000 volumes so that each volume is identified, as it would be by an accession number. Furthermore, such a number will indicate the exact relative position of each subject, author, work, translation, edition, volume, copy, in a collection of 7,000,000 volumes, in which the books are classified by subjects, on the movable plan, with the utmost possible " closeness," and the numbers will not fetter the clas- sification in any respect whatever. This being true, it follow s that if we start with an empty building and let a library grow up within it in the normal way, the same nota- tion will suffice for a collection of 700,000 volumes, on the supposition that the author of the classification made an average error of 90 per THE woeld's libeaey congeess. 893 cent iu estimating the growtli of every subdivision in Lis sclieme. Thereafter, by adding characters, he could provide for interpolations at any point and to any extent, A similar notation using nothing but figures would be quite practicable. In such a case it is not likely that a number longer than 1234.567 would ever be needed in any library, save a few of the great national collections, and this number would be read as it stands, the figures before the decimal point being integers. In order to attain this we have only to sacrifice the halfway struc- tural formula, with its attendant halfway mnemonicity. EEFEEENCE LIST ON CLASSIFICATION. The following list of references is by no means exhaustive. With a few exceptione, it includes only the later literature of the subject. The abbreviations stand for the following periodicals, etc. : Central. Centralblatt fur bibliothekswesen. Leipzig. Conf. lib. Land. Conference of librarians in London, Oct., 1877. London. X. A. U. K. Transactions and proceedings of the annual meetings of the Library Association of the.United Kingdom. London. L.j. Ljbrary journal. New York. Lih. The library {successor to Library chronicle]. London. Lib. ehron. Library chronicle. London. Biv. Eivista delle biblioteche. Firenze. U.S. '76 rep. U. S. Bureau or Education. Public libraries in the United Stales of America . . . Special report. Washington, 1876. 8°. Classification of knowledge. This has a very considerable literature of its own. For a r^sumd of the older sys- tems see A. E. B. Woodward's system of universal science (Phil., 1816. 4<^). On the scientific method, the following are recommended : Bain, A.. Logic. New ed. N. Y. (Longmans), 1882. 12°. Davidson, W. L. The logic of classification. (Mind, 12 : 233-53.) Jbvons, W. S. Principles of science. Hf.Y. (Maemillan), 187 i. 2v. 8°. One vol. ed., 1889. 12°. His remarks on the classification of books show little acquaintance with the problem. Spencbb, H. Classification of the sciences. (In Ms Eecent discussions. N. Y. (Appleton), 1871. 12°.) Stanley, H. M. Classification of the sciences. (Mind, 9: 265-74.) Classification of books. HISTORY. OUTLINES OF OLDER SYSTEMS. CRITICISM. COLLAN, K. Om bibliografiskasystemerochbibliotheksmethoder . . . Helsing- fors (M-mclcell), ISei. 8°. 4-(-64-|-13 p. COUSIN, J. De I'orgaanistion [sic] et de I'administration des bibliothfeques . . . Pa.Tia(Pedone-Lauriel),1882. Sm.8°. . [3] -|-ll-f 374 p. Edwards, E. Memoirs of libraries ; including a handbook of library economy. London (T»-»6«er), 1859. 2v. 8°. Fumagalli, G. Cataloghi di biblioteche e indici bibliografici . . . Firenze (Sansoni), 1887 . 8°. 19-f-199 p. (See Central, 4:556-58. Kephart, L.j., 12:547^8.) . Delia collocazione del libri nelle pubbliche biblioteche . . . Firenze (Sansoni), 1890. 8°. 7-l-l65-f [1] p. (See Bruschi, iiiu., 3: 46.) 894 EDUCATION KEPOBT, 1892-93. Gar, T. Letture cli bibliologia . . . Torino (Unione Tijpogr. Ed.), 1868. 8°. 18+340 p., table. GiiAESEL, A. Griindzuge tier Ibibliotliekslehre . . . Leipzig (TFeJfii-), 1890. 16°. 12+424 p. (Seo Meyer, Centra?., 8: 54-57. Bruschi, iJJi)., 3 : 47. Hull,i.j., 16 : 118-19. Tr. into Italian by Capra, 1893.) Ottino, G. Bibliografia . . . 2tl ed. Milano (SoepJi), 1892. 16°. [3]-8+166p. and FuMAGALLi, G. Bibliotheca bibliograpbiea italica — Catalogo degli Bcritti di bibliologia, bibliografia e biblioteconomia pubblicati in Italia, e di quelli risguardanti I'ltalia pubblicati all' estero . . . Eoma {Loreto Pasqua- lucci), 1889. 8°. 24+431+ [2] p. Park, E. Pantology; or, A systematic survey of Imman knowledge . . . [also applied to the classification of books]. 3d ed. Philadelphia {Eoijan if-' Thompson), 18U. 8°. 587 p. 12 pi aics. Peignot, G. Dictionnaire raisonnS do bibliologie . , . Paris ( Villier), 1803-4. * 3 V. 8°. Petziioldt, J. Bibliotheca bibliograpbiea , . . Leipzig (Engelmauii), 1866. 8°. 12+939 p. EiCiTOU, G. . . . Traits de I'administration des bibliothfequea x)ubliques , . . Paris (Dupont), 1885. sm. 8°. 8+421 p. Sacconi-Eicci, G1UI.IA. Una viaita ad alcune biblioteche della Svizzera, della Ger- mania, dell' Austria. Firenze (^CafneseccM), 1892. sq. 16°. [2] +288 p. +14 fold. Tables. (Eepr. from Miv., 4.) SYSTEMS OF CLASSIFICATION. (InclQdea eystems intended for catalogs.) BoNAZZi, G. Schema di catalogo sistematico per le biblioteche . . . Parma (Batiei), 1890. 8°. [3]— 14+105+[1] p. (See Fumagalli, JJiu. 2: 78-79. Bruschi, Biv. 3: 47-48. Bliss, L. j. 14: 5-8.) British Musedm system. (Garnett, Conf. lit. Lond. 108-14, 188-93; L. j. 2 : 194-200. G. W. Harris, L. j. 12 : 331-34. On tho Cornell univ^ adaptation see Harris, L.j. 16: 138-39.) Bkownbill, j. Science and art: A theory of library classification. (Lii. cliron., 3:133-36.) Cutter, C. A. Another plan of numbering books. (L.j. 3: 248-51; 4: 88-90.) -^ Classification on the shelves. (L.j.i: 234-43.) Thirty-five versus teu. (L.j. 7: 62-63.) Expansive classification. [Mr. Cutter's new system. Seven classifications, cumulative, a'dapted to libraries of different sizes. The lst-6th are pub- lished, with index; the 7th is in press. Publ. by tho author, Forbes library, Northampton, Mass.] (On Mr. Cutter's systems see Schwartz, X. j. 3: 302. Goddard, L. j. 10: 55-56. Bliss, L. j. 14: 242-44. Kcphart, L. j. 17: 228. Thomas, L. A. U. K. ir^: 182-84. Graosel's Bibliothokslehre, 236-37. Furaagalli's Delia collocazione, 129-31.) Dewey, Melvil. Decimal classification and relative index, . . . 5th ed. Boston (Library bureau), 1894. Sm. 4°. 41+ [240] +407-593+ [5] p. (1st ed., 1876; 2d, 1885 ; 3d, 1888 ; 4th, 1891. Tr. into Italian by Mondino in 1885 (Palermo). See U. S. '7G Sep., 623-48. Larned, L. j. 7: 127-28. Lane, L. j. 10: 258 (Dewey's reply, L. j. 10 : 316). Perkins and Schwartz, L. j. 11 : 37-43, 68-74, 156-60 (Dewey's reply, L. j. 11: 100-6, 132-.S9; Mann's, 11: 139-41). Axon, Conf. hb. Land., 166. Thomas, L. A. V. K. 4-5: 182. Kay, Nineteenih cen- tury, Oct., 1884, p. 624-29 (Thomas's reply. Lib. chron. 1: 181-82). Graesel, Central., 3 : 542, and his Bibliothekslehre, 234. Fumagalli's Cataloghi, 135-37, and his Delia collocazione, 126-28, 133. Larued's modification, in L. j. 4: 40, 42. Fitzpatrick's, L.j. 4: 41.) THE world's library CONGRESS. 895 Edmands, J. New system of classitioation and scheme for numliering boots . . . Philadelpliia IMercantile library}, 1S83. 8°. 29 p. (See also his art. in X. y. 4: S8-40, 56. See Dewey, L.j. 4: 42-44.) Fletcher, W. I. Library classification: theory and practice. (L. j. 14: 22-23, 77-79, 113-16. See Bliss, L. j. 14 : 244.) Library classification. Reprinted, with alterations, additions, and au index from his "Public libraries in America" [of same date]. Boston (Roberts Bros.), 1894. 8°. 32 p. Harris, W. T. System of olassifioation [with an] essay on [the same]. (In Cata- log of the St. Lonis pnblic school library (St. Lonis, 1870. 8°.) pp. 8-16. See U. S. '76 Sefi. 660-62. Jotmi. of spec, philos. 4: 114-29. Thomas, L. A. 17. j:. 4-5:181.) Haktwig, O. Schema des roalkatalogs dor k. UniversitStsbib'iothek zu Halle a. S. 3«" beiheft zum Centralblatt fur bibliothekswesen. Leipzig (Sarrassoivitz), 1888. 8°. [3]-t-345+[4] p. (See Bliss, X. /. 14 : 245^6. Tedder, Ub. 1 : 21. Harvard tjniv. lib. system. (On the olaagification in catalog and on shelves see X. J. 6:9-10, 54, 116; 9:50-51; 10:259-60; 11:208-9. Winsor, Conf. Ub. Land. 164. Also the index to the subject-catalog, mentioned below.) Larked, J. N. A nomenclature of classification. (X. ^■. 9: 62-69. See Cutter, X. j'. 9: 115. Lane, L.j. 10: 257-58.) Ogle, J. J. Outline of a new scheme of classification applicable to books. (Lib. chron. 2: 160.) Palermo, F. Classazione del libri a stauipa dell' I, E.R.Palatina, iucorrispondenza di un uuoTO ordinamento dello seibile umano. Firenze (^Bibl. Palatina), 1854. i°. 114-1- [1] +388 p. Perkins, F. B. A rational classification of literature for shelving and cataloging books in a library . . . Revised ed. . San Francisco {the author) [now sold by iiftrar;/ ftitreau, Boston], 1882. 8°. 57-f 4 p. (First ed., 1881. See also his art., X. j. 4: 226-34. Dewey, X. j. 7: 60-62, Lamed, X. j. 7: 128-30. Smith, X. j. 7 : 174. Thomas, X. A. U. K. 4-5 : 181. Fumagalli's Delia coUocazione, 135-36.) Poole, W. F. (See his article on Organization and Management of Public Libraries in TJ. S. '76 Rep. 492-95, and the finding lists of Chicago public library.) Schleiermacher, A. A. E. Bibliographisches system der gesammten wissenschafts- kunde, mit einer anleitung zum ordneu von hibliotheken . . . Braun- schweig (Vieiveg), 1852. 2v. 8°. Schwartz, J. A "combined" system for arranging and numbering. (X. j. 3: 6-10. See U. S. '76 Hep. 657-60. Dewey and Cutter ia Z.j. 3 : 339-40. ) A mnemonic system of olassifioation. (X. j. 4 : 3-7. See Dewey, Perkins, and Cutter, L.j. 4: 92.) A new classification and notation. (X. j. 7: 148-66. See also his art., X. j. 7: 84-85.) Ai> alphabetico-mnemonic system of classifying and numbering books. (L.j 10: 25-27, 77-78, 149-50, 174-75, 371-75. See Lane, X. j. 10: 257. Lane and Cutter, L.j. 11: 8-9.) Shurtleff, N. B. A' decimal system for the arrangement and administration of libraries. Boston (prira(eZ//j3ri»te(Z), 1856. 4''. [4]-|-80 p. (A decimal sys- tem of notation applied to fixed shelves. Used in the Boston public library since 1858. See Dewey, L.j. 4: 61, 120.) SmitHj L. p. On the classification of books . . . Boston (Library bureau), 1882. 8° 70 p. (See his art, X. j.l: 172-74. Also Thomas, X. A. U. E., 4-5: :|84. Fumagallj's l;ella collocazione, 134-35.) Steffenhagen, E. Die ordnungsprincipieu der Univorsitiits-Bibliotliek Kiel . . . • Burg (Hopfer), 1888. 8°. 6+38 p. (See also his Uber normalhohen f. bachcrgeschosse. Kiel, 1885. 8". 11 p.) 896 Villa Pernice, A. Korme perl'ordinamento delle biblioteohe. Milano (Galli e Bai- mondi), 1889. 4°. 27 p. Zangemeistbr, K. System des real-katalogs der Universitatsbibliothek Heidelberg. Heidelberg (Winter), 1885. 1. 8°. 9+54 p. (See Harrassowitz Central. 2: 425-27.) [Same. 2d ed.] Heidelberg (mo ^juJ?;), 1893. f°. [43] p. Other references may be found in Graesel's Bibliothekslehre, 386, and in Fnma- galli's works. The following indexes of subjects will be found useful: Cincinnati public library. Subject index to the location of the books and pamphlets contained in the . . . library . . . Cincinnati (tlielibrary), 1879. 1.8°. 6+[5]— 61p. Harvard University Library. Index to the subject catalog.- Cambridge, Mass. {th^ library), 1886-91. 8°. 4+165 p. For sale by the XiSran/ Jwreaw, Boston. Maes, C. Saggio d'indice per materie a sistema nuovissimo della E. Biblioteca Universitaria di Boma. Eoma (Forzani), 1881. 4°. 126+[1] pi I have not seen the printed systems of classification of the following libraries : Berlin, K. k. Bibliothek. Franckfurt a/M. Stadtbibliothek. uniformity of practice. Dewey, i.y. 3: 231. Cutter, i.j. 4: 242; 6: 67. Eichardson, i.j. 10: 212. Scud- der, L.j. 12: 224. L. A. U. K. committee on a scheme suitable for general use, i. J. U. K.4r-o: 219-20; 6: 3,176; 7: 3; 8: 4. Bradshaw, i. X f7. Z^, 4-5: 220. Bailey, iit. c7iro«. 3: 110. Fumagalli's Cataloghi, 133, 158-59 (in subject catalogs). classification by subjects. Fob.— .Cutter, L. j. 3: 371; 4: 234-43; 6:66. Dewey, X. j. 4: 117-20,191-94. Per- kins, L. j. 4: 29. Nicholson, BuUen, and Cutter, Conf. lib. Land. 165-67. Wilson, L. A. TJ.K.2: 79-84. Poole, TJ. S. '76 Bep. 492. Forstemann, Cen- tral. 1: 293-303 (on subj. catal.), and Uhlirz, Central. 1: 461-7. Kay in Nineteenth century, July, 1893, 101-9. Against. — De Morgan, Jevons, Fumagalli, already cited, and refs. in latter (but on subj, cat. see his Cataloghi, 125-76). Magnfisson, Conf. lib. Land. 164-66. logical ok scientific classification. For.— Bliss, Z.j. 7: 104,251; 14: 240-42, 244. Kephart, L.j. 18: 240-42. Against. — Fletcher, L.j. 4: 244. Schwartz, L. j. 7: 229. To wry in Bibliographer, 5: 168; 6: 62. Fumagalli's Cataloghi, 140 et seq. SPECIAL difficulties OF CLASSIFICATION. Jones, Conf. lib. Land. 12 (i. j. 2: 110). Perkins, L. j. 4: 233-234. Harrassowitz, Central. 2: 426-27. CLASSIFICATION OP PARTICULAR SUBJECTS. Biography. Larned, L. j. 7 : 129. Book arts. Cutter, L.j. 7: 168-72. Carr, L. j. 9: 172-75. Countries. Cutter, i. _;. 9 : 115-16. Fairy tales, eto. Cutter, L. j. 6 : 67. Folk lore. Cutter, L.j. 9: 136. Noyes, L.j. 9: 156. Elchardson and Bliss, L.j. 9: 177. Wheatley, L.j. 9: 188. History. Lomax, L. A. U. E.d: 67-68. History — French. (Monod's) Tedder, Lib. 1: 15-21. THE world's library CONGRESS. 897 Law. Lane, L. j. 10: 260-61. " Library economy. Cutter, L. j. 1 : 271. Mathematical sciknces. Lord Lindsay, L. j. 4 : 150-52. Mathematics (Pure). Rowell, L.j. 17: 447. Natural sciences. Cutter, X. j. 5 : 163-66. Philosophy. Cutter and Larned, L. j. 10: 79-82. Recreative arts. Cutter, L. j. 10 : 6-7. Shakespeariana. Cutter, L.j. 9: 137-38. Noyes, L. j. 9; 156. Tedder, L. j. 11: 441-42, 449. Sociology. Larned, L.j. 9: 66-69. Theology. Richardson, L. j. 8 : 320-21. U. S. (States). Cutter, L. j. 205-8. 6. W. Harris, Cornell univ. bulletin, Nov., 1889. Zoology. Manu, i. J. 5 : 143-44. Classification of a scientific society's library. Scudder, L. j. 12: 221-24. Bailey, Lib. chron. 3 : 109-14. Classification of a typographical library. Reed, Lib. 4: 36-44. Classification of photographic collections. Borden, X. j. 17 : 195-97. loose oh close classification. Fou loose.— Schwartz, X. y. 3 : 302. Edmands, X. J. 6 : 119. Fletcher, X. j. 10 : 316; 11 : 209-12, 353 ; 14 : 22-23. Wheatley, Conf. lib. Land., 128. Kerler, Central., 6: 76-80. For close.— Garnett, X. j. 2 ; 198. Nicholson, X. j. 2 : 268. Cutter, X. j. 3 : 340, 453 ; 4: 240-41; 6: 66,119; 10: 180-84, 403, 467; 11: 167, 180-84; 14: 153-54; 15: clOO. Poole, X. y. 6 : 122. Lane, X. y. 10 : 260 ; 11 : 352-53. Dewey, X. j. 11 : 350-53. Larned, BiscoCj Richardson, and Coe, X. j. 11 : 352-53. May, X. j. 12: 80. Cole, X. j. 12: 356-60. PIXKD OR MOVABLE LOCATION. For fixed. — Winsor, L.j. 6: 116. For movable.— Cutter, X. j. 4 : 234, 236 ; 6 : 68-69. Poole, X. j. 6 : 121-22, and U. S. '76 Rep., 494. subordinate arrangement. Dewey, L.j. 11: 296-301. Authors. See the Cutter and Sanborn author tables (Boston, Library bureau) ; also the Edmands table in his new system of classif., and his art., X. j. 4 : 38-40, 56. Dewey, X. j. 4 : 43. Cutter, X. j. 4 : 45-46 ; 12 : 251-52, 549. Massey, L.j. 6 ; 7-9. Ou Greek and Latin authors see Lane, X. j. 9 : 50-51, and Cutter, X. j. 11 : 280-89. Size. Dewey, X. j. 4 : 118-20. Chronologic. Arnold's, X. j. 6: 66. Biscoe, X. j. 10: 246-47. G. P[oggialif] Xe Xji;j-e(bibl. r^t.). 9:252-56. AccflESSiON. Dewey, X. j. 4 : 120. Titles (ex. of difficulties). Cutter, L.j. 12: 355. Notation. On mixing letters and figures. Cutter, X. j. 7 : 195-96. Length of symbols. Cutter, L.j. 4: 47. Cole, L.j. 12: 359-60. Large base. Dewey, L.j. 4: 7-10, 75-78. Cutter, L.j. 4: 88-90; 7: 62-63. Bliss, L.j. 16: 6. Marshall, X. A. [f. K. 3: 77-86, Mnemonics. Richardson, X.j. 10: 208-11. Schwartz, X.j. 11: 232-44. Soule, X.j. 14: 286. Notation for small libraries. Cutter, X. j. 12 : 324-26, 430-31. ED 93-, 57 898 Loan Systems. By Mary Wright Plummer, Librarian Pratt Institute, Brooklyn. Definition. — The charging or loan system is that part of a library's administration by which chiefly its communication with borrowers is carried on. The word loan applies to it because •the books are lent, and the word charging because every library, no matter how small, with any pretense to method, has some way of keeping account of these loans. Requisites. — The characteristic of a loan system best appreciated by the public is the speed with which it can receive and deliver books. The trifling annoyance of having to wait a few minutes for a book will drive many persons away from a library, and to a certain extent from the habit of reading. It therefore behooves the library administrators to consider speed when planning their charging system. Another requisite is simplicity, not only because it implies speed and makes the work easier, but because it insures greater accuracy. The more complicated the system the greater the chance for error. The third thing to keep in mind is that the less the borrower's part in the operation the better he likes the system. The library must be sure that it asks of him only the facts absolutely necessary to fill his order, and that any red tape should be kept behind the desk. These three things, then, are essential, for it is certain that if there is more than one library in a place people will go to the one where they are most quickly waited on with the least trouble to themselves, and with the fewest mistakes. A library, even a free library, is a business institution, and must keep a record of its transactions. It would be as absurd to keep no accounts in order to please the people and send them away sooner as it would be to enter no charges against the customers of a shop. The tangle that its affairs would soon find themselves in would be infinitely more troublesome to the borrower than the short time spent in waiting while the library recorded a few essential facts. It should therefore be taken for granted, in deciding on a charging system, that the ]mblie will be patient and reasonable if the library does not impose on it. The library, if it keeps pace with the rest of the world, must know what it is doing. It is easy enough to hand out books day after day without knowing or caring whether more people are reading than this time a year ago, whether the best books are really called for, what the prevailing taste of the reading community is, whether people are grad- ually accumulating private collections of books at the library's expense, whether everyone is getting an equal chance at the popular books, where a book is that people keep calling for and that does not makeits appearance, and a dozen other things that will occur to every libra- rian as details tliat he must know in order to bo master of the situation. If libraries were conducted on the guesswork jjlan, librarianship would THE world's LIBEAEY CONGRESS. 899 deserve small pay and smaller honor, for an automaton could be con- structed that would take in and hand out books, and learned pigs have been taught to pick out numbers and letters. The charging system should, to a great extent, tell whether the library is really of use to the community, and in order to do this it must put the library in possession of certain statistics. The question is how to get these statistics at least cost of time and trouble to the public, with least expenditure of labor and least risk of error on the part of the library. Questions answered by charging systems, — In 1882 the librarian of the Milwaukee public library, sent to the Library journal the fol- lowing list of 20 questions, answered by the charging system of that library. The questions in parentheses have been added in preparing this paper, in order to make these questions a basis for examination of various charging systems : 1 Is a given Ijook out? 2 If out, who has it? 3 When didhe take it? 4 When is it to be sent for as overdue? 5 Has the hoot ever been out ? 6 How many times and when has the book been out? 7 How many (and what) books were issued on a given day? 7a (How many (and what) books are due on a given day?) 8 How many (and what) hooks in each class were issued on a given day? 9 How many (and what) boolcs are now out, charged to borrowers? 10 How many (and what) books are at the bindery? 11 Has a certain book been rebound, and when? 12 What books have been discarded ? 13 Does the circulation of a discarded book warrant its being replaced? 14 Has a given borrower a hook charged to him ? 14a (How many books are charged to hira?) 14b (What hooks are charged to him? ) 15 How many persons have now books charged to them? 16 Are these the persons who registered earliest or latest? 17 How often has a borrower made use of the library ? 18 Has a borrower had a given book before? 19 What has been the character of the borrower's reading? 20 Is the borrower's card still in force and used? 21 (Has this person a right to draw books?) The principle of the grouping given above will be readily understood to be a rough classification by book, date, and borrower's account. It does not follow necessarily that the system which answers the most questions is the best, for they may be answered at an expense of time and labor out of all proportion to the value of the information. That is a point which each library must decide for itself. The college library, the free city library, the village library, have a widely differing patron- age and quite as widely differing resources. Loan systems may be roughly divided into four groups : Ledger sys- tems, temporary- slip systems, permanent- slip or card systems, indicator 900 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. systems. There are many ingenious devices that belong to none of these, but they are used in so few libraries that they hardly merit the name of system. Ledger system. — By ledger system we now mean a system in which books are used for recording charges. It is often taken for granted that in using a ledger the library keeps its accounts only under the borrower's name; but it is possible to keep trace of the books also, and even to keep the accounts by date. Originally the charges were made in a daybook, a simple daily record of transactions such as kept by any retail shopman. No doubt it was considered a great step in advance when the library began to post these daily entries in a regu- lar ledger instead of looking back through all its charges till the one wanted was found. The ledger account by borrower has the borrower's name for a head- ing and should have a page to itself in order that no two borrowers shall have the same folio number. The call number of the book and the date of issue are noted iu pencil in columns or squares ruled for them, and when the book is returned the borrower's folio number, if he has forgotten it, may be found from the index at the back of the ledger, and the entry is either crossed off or the date of return noted, which closes the account till another book is drawn. The advantages and disadvantages of this method may be summed up as follows : ADVANTAGES. 1. The entries can not be lost or mislaid. 2. The ledger takes up less space than the same information in any other form. 3. It can be handled rapidly. 4. ' The borrower's previous reading shows and may help in making selections for him or prevent the second taking of a book by mistake. 5. It is easy to tell when a borrower's connection with the library ceases and how many live accounts there are on the book. DISADVANTAGES. 1. Impossible to change the order of accounts to alphabetic^ or other order to get at certain facts. 2. Pages, when soiled, can not be replaced. 3. ' In the course of time an active reader may have several folio numbers, which would tend to confusion. 4. But one person can use the ledger at a time. 5. It is next to impossible to get at the delinquent accounts in order to send notices. Applying the test of our 21 questions, we find that it answers easily 14-20, inclusive, nearly all, in fact, that apply to the reader; but with great difiQculty, if at all, can the answers to 1-13 be found. By means of a daybook, questions 7 and 8 may be answered also. This gives the ' This advantage and this disadvantage may be found in some other systems. ^This necessitates an index to find the borrower's page while the card system is its own index. — M. D. ' This advantage and this disadvantage may be found in some other systems. THE world's LIBRAEY CONGRESS. 901 additional advantages that the charge is very quickly made, the post- ing being postponed to a leisure moment, and that the circulation of each day can be easily classified, footed up, and set down. This book, like the ledger, can be used by only one person at a time, and it can not be used for discharging debts unless the date be given as a key. In the Library journal for 1883 a description is given of the method used by many Canadian libraries, notably those of- the Mechanics' institutes, in ■which two ledgers figure, the one arranged by readers' accounts, the other by call numbers for the books, making book accounts. A daybook is used with this system, for the sake of speedy charging. To the borrower the daybook charge is very likely to be satisfactory: He has only to give the call number of the book wanted and his name. The charge is dashed down and he does not need to wait. When he returns the book^ his name or folio number refers to the charge, now on the ledger, which is crossed oft' or the date of return jotted down oppo- site it, and that is all. He knows nothing of the time and labor given to rewriting every charge, or the difficulties that arise each day from the fact that the library has no account with the book. Temporary-slip system.— The infiexibility of the ledger system could not fail to be felt, and it has been superseded in many libraries by the temporary slip system, of which a great advantage over the ledger system is that more than one person at a time can be engaged in charg- ing and discharging books. The slips may be used exactly as the ledger pages are used to keep an account with the reader, the difference in that case being that the ledger is a permanent and the slip a tem- porary record. The slip may be written out by the borrower, in which case it serves as a receipt, or by the assistant for the sake of greater speed. It IS usually required that the borrower's name or number, the call number of the book (or its author and title), and the date be written. When the book is returned and fines paid, if any, the slip may be destroyed or returned to the borrower. The slips may be arranged in a tray or in pigeonholes in any of three ways: (1) With guide cards or blocks for each day, making a daybook; (2) by bor- rower's name or number, making an account with the borrower; (3) by call number, making an account with the book. The first arrangement has the advantages of the regular daybook as to speed, provided that all that is written on the slip be the borrower's name or number and the call number. The date is here not necessary, although it is well to have it lest a slip should by accident be taken from its compartment. The slip is then dropped into the tray in the proper date division, and the borrower goes away with his book. The disadvantage is also the same, that, without remembering the date, a charge can not be canceled. It would be possible to keep a ledger in connection with this arrangement of slips, as with the regular daybook. The questions answered would then be 7, 8, 9, 14-20. It has the advan- 902 tage over the daybook that after the arrangement by date the slips can be put in a subarrangement by borrower's number or call number, and that the dates once written on the guides do not have to be rewrit- ten. The daybook, on the other hand, by the mere lapse of time, becomes a record of delinquents in such shape that it can not be lost, whereas the delinquent slips, in order to be quite safe, must be copied into a book after a certain period. When the slips are arranged by borrower's name or number, they represent the borrower's ledger with its outstanding accounts only. As the slips themselves are usually of thin paper, it is customary to have cardboard guides, each bearing a borrower's name or number, or both, and when the charge is made the slip is dropped behind or in front of the borrower's card and remains there while the book is out. If the guides are arranged by borrowers' numbers there must be an alphabetic index to the tray, as the numbers are often forgotten. This system answers questions 9, 14, 14a, 14b, 15, 10. The questions 17-20, which are answered by the ledger system, can not be solved by anj' temporary record. The main advantage of this way of keeping the borrowers' accounts is the one mentioned above as pertaining to any slip system, that more than one person may work at it at one time. It requires more writing than the ledger, inasmuch as the borrower's name or number must be recorded. The difficulty of getting at the number of overdue books is quite as great, and if delinquent notices are seat the whole tray must be overhauled periodically. If these notices are sent only at long intervals, as in many subscription libraries, this is not so strong an objection as in the case of i^ublic libraries, which must send out notices daily. To the college library, or one that was Avatchful of its influence on various classes of readers, the fact that the record of a borrower's reading could not be kept would be a strong objection to the temporary slii> system. The third arrangement, that of keeping the slips in order of the call number of the books, has been seldom tried where the slips were for temporary use only. It answers questions 1-4, 9. The objection with regard to delinquent notices holds here, as in the previous arrangement. Any change in the character of the circulation within a given period would fail to be noticed by this system. Its main advantage lies in its speedy answer to questions 1, 2, and 3, questions which are more often asked, perhaps, than any other, and in its convenience when it becomes time to take the inventory. It is but fair to the last two arrangements to say that if the day's circulation is kept apart from the other charges till it can be classified and counted, one of the above disadvantages, the inability to discover changes in the character of the general reading, would disappear, and questions 7 and 8 could be answered. In some libraries the slip is made large enough to serve for a list of books, and if handed back to the borrower when he returns one book may serve him to select another. THE ■world's library CONGRESS. 903 The late librarian of Princeton, Dr. P. Yiuton, snggested in Library journal, 2 : 53-7, that the slips, before being sorted in their pigeon- holes, be copied, in order to make two arrangements possible, one by- borrowers and one by books. Whenever there is copying done, there is an extra liability to mistakes, and the writer suggests, instead, the use of the carbon copy used by many dry goods and notion houses to make duplicate checks for goods bought. Both entries would be in the same "writing, made simultaneously, and if one was correct the other would have to be. Card system. — The card system differs from the slip system chiefly from the fact that the cards, larger and more durable than slips, are "kept as a permanent record. Aside from this, they are subject to the same limitation, admit of the same arrangement, and answer the same purposes as slijis. If but one kind of card is used by the library, it can be arranged with others to form an account with the borrower, with the book, or by date; and the same subarraugements possible with the slips are possi- ble here. The advantages and disadvantages a're the same as with the same arrangement of slipS; With cards it is advisable to have ruled columns to keep the record. If the card is a borrower's card, the columns should contain the call number and the dates of takiDg and of return. If it is a book card, that is, kept in order of the call numbers, the columns should contain borrower's number and dates. Some libraries show the discharge of a debt by stamping or punching out the charge instead of stamping the return date, which is thus lost from the records. The borrower's card, kept by the library, answers questions 14-20, inclusive. By keeping the day's charges in a separate place till the end of the day's circulation, questions 7 and 8 may be answered. If a single card is a book card, it will answer questions 1-6, 13, 18, with 7 and 8 if the day's charges are kept apart and counted. If the book card is used, it may be kept in a pocket in the book when the book is in, or it may be placed in a separate tray at the desk to show what books are in and save useless trips to the shelves. Used in this way, it helps to form a card indicator, at the same time lessening the risk of less of the card. If the cards of books out are kept in strict call-number order, without subarrangement by date, they may serve to indicate instantly the books out and thus fulfill the same^ ofSce. The pocket for the book card is very generally used in libraries that have the book card. It serves for the borrower's card when the book is out, in case the borrower carries his own card, and lessens the risk of its loss. The labor of pocketing and repocketing, however, is considerable, and even aside from this, the writer questions whether for the library with few attendants the advantages from the card indi- cator do not outweigh those from the use of the pocket. The card has an advantage over the slip, inasmuch as the library can obtain from it, according to the arrangement by book or borrower, 904 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. a record of the book's use or the borrower's reading. It is customary, in da.te systems, to have the date of taking written or stamped some- where in the book, either on the jjocket or on a date slip tipped into the book, to avoid the necessity of leaving the fact to the memory of bor- rower or assistant. Tvro-card system. — We come now to the two-card systems, in which the cards are those of the borrower and of the book, the latter kept usually in date order. We shall take up first the system which allows (or obliges) the borrower to carry his own card and present it when he wants a book. This provision answers at once question 21, the pre- sumption being that if the borrower is not the person presenting the card he has delegated his authority to that person by giving him the card. A system without any card carried by the borrower either causes the library to run the risk of giving books to persons who have no right to draw them, or, as in the case of the Apprentices library in New- York city, must require a written order when a book is wanted and no book is returned for exchange, and compare the signature of the order with that on the register. The library with a small clientele runs no great risk in requiring no card of identification, as every borrower would be apt to be known at the library, but the city library, with its large and ever-shifting body of readers, must have some method of identifying them and the card is certainly the simplest. The borrower's card for identification and the same as a part of the charging system are different things. For either use, the card should contain the borrower's name, address, number, and the date of expira- tion of his jirivileges. There is a risk in making the borrower's card an essential part of the charging system when it is carried by the borrower, on account of the liability to loss; but if the facts noted on it serve simply as a check or to corroborate the record kept at the library, the question becomes simply one of economy of time and labor. The two-card system most widely used is probably that in which the borrower's card records the call number and date, and the book card the borrower's number and date. On the return of a book, the dating slip in it and the date on the borrower's card should confirm each other, the latter can be marked with date of return and handed back, while the book card can be easily found by means of the number in the book at any convenient moment, whether kept in strict call-number order or by date. When found, the date of return is noted on it, the card placed in the pocket or the card indicator, and the process is complete. It will be noted that very little of this has to be done in the borrower's presence. The question arises, of what use is the call number on the borrower's card, as it seems to be unnecessary in the checking off process. It gives, of course, a record of the borrower's reading, but as he carries it that is of no particular value to the librarian. It gives no clew to the book, if lost, as the card is generally kept in the pocket and lost with the book. THE world's library CONGRESS. 905 Some libraries dispense with this record, therefore, and save the time of writing. By doing this, the amount of writing before a book goes out is reduced to the date on the borrower's card, and the borrower's number and date on the book card. This item can be omitted, however, only in case the library allows but one book on a card. The question may also be asked, what is the use of the date on the book card, if it is already on the borrower's card and in the book, and the book cards are kept in date arrangement? One reason for this is that the book card is a record kept by the library, and the time of keeping a book is often a matter of interest in the gathering of statistics and a guide to a reader's thoroughness; another, that if a book card should get but of its compartment by accident, there would be no way of finding its pi ace again if it bore no date. By this system questions 1-9, 13-14, 17-21 are answered. Questions 10-12 may be answered by any system using the book card, provided the cards of books sent to the binder or discarded are kept in separate compartments in the charging tray, by order of their call numbers. It must be remembered, however, that the answers to questions 14, 17, 19, 20, and 21 are in the hands of the borrower and liable at any time to be lost. This system, with variations, is growing in favor among librarians, and has much to recommend it. The modus operandi of the Milwaukee public library, the Appren- tices' library of New York City, the library of the Boston AtbentEum, and of the Buffalo library has been described in the Library journal with some fullness and will be found interesting and suggestive, but would occupy too much space if described here. Of the few card sys- tems which are in use in English libraries, we may mention the system of the Bradford library, which is described in the Library, vol. 3: 390. Dummy system. — The dummy system is an ingenious one for use in libraries with a limited constituency. Each borrower is represented by a wooden dummy, with his name and number on the outer edge. The sides are covered with paper ruled in columns. When a borrower wishes a book his dummy is taken from the alphabetic or numerical arrangement in which it is kept, the call number and date of issue noted on it, and it then takes the place of the book on the shelf. The return of the book gives the call number, the dummy is found and the charge canceled, the book returned to its place, and the dummy is ready for another charge and to lake the place of another book. If there is a call for a book not in, the dummy shows who has it and when it is due. This answers questions 1-4, 9-9a, 15, when the borrower is using a book, and 14, 17, 18, 19, when he has no book. Indicator System. — It is said that where the indicator is used for charging, as in many English libraries, the same method does not prevail in any two libraries ; hence it is unnecessary to detail the various sys- tems; they differ from American charging systems chiefly in making use of a perpendicular instead of a horizontal tray for the cards or blocks. 906 EDUCATION The indicator is a large -woodoQ frame containing tiny oblong pigeon- holes, into which are fitted blocks, pegs, or cardboard slips represent- iijg the books in the library, or certain classes of books. On both ends of the block is printed the call number of the book, one end having a blue ground, the other a red one. By making the red represent boots in, and the blue books out, the public can tell at once if a given book can be had and need not ask useless questions. The saving of time and labor, therefore, is greater than with the card indicator, where the assistant has to look through the cards in order to say if a book is in; but both devices save unnecessary journeys to the shelves, and the card indicator occupies less space. The use of the block indicator is confined, so far, almost entirely to British libraries. Where the indi- cator is used for charging, the block is superseded by a tiny book in which the charges are made, the top and bottom of the book being col- ored like the blocks referred to. A feature that exists in some of the indicator systems and in many card systems is the movable date tray. The date register of the indi- cator has, for instance, 11 columns for books not overdue and one extra column for overdue books, and the date tray has 14 compartments for the former and one for the latter. These trays move from right to lefti As to-day's circulation becomes yesterday's, its tray is moved one space to the left, while the fourteenth tray shows that all cards left in it represent books one day overdue. These are removed to the tray for delinquents, leaving the emjjty tray to be used for the day's circulation^ For a brief historical treatment of charging systems and the statis- tics of their use by United States libraries in 1889, see admirable report by H. J. Oarr, in A. L. A. proceedings for 1889, pages 203-214. For bibliography of charging systems from 1876 to 1888, see appendix to above report, or L.j., 1889, 14: 213-214. Since 1888 have appeared: Schwartz, J. Apprentices library charging system. Lib.j., 1889, 14: 468-469. Device for preserving call numbers. Lib. j., 1889, 14 : 281. Albany Y. M. C. A. library. Charging system. Lib. j., 1S91, 16: 232. Cutler, M. S. Charging systems in foreign libraries. Lib.j., 1891, 16: C51-52. Fenner, L. B. Accounts with books and borrowers. Lib. j., 1891, 16 : 246. Plummer, M. W. Sacramento public library tag system. San Francisco Mechanics' Institute charging system. San Francisco public library -n'heel for borrowers' cards. (In her Western libraries visited by the A. L. A. party. Lib.j., 1891,16: 334-336.) New Hampshire. Board of library commissioners. Charging systems. Lib.j.,lS93, 18 : 42. Also in their circular. THE world's library CONGRESS. 907 Elements of Library Binding. By D. V. R. JoHNSTox, New York State Reference Librarian. Thougli the principles of library bookbinding are well known to librarians, a novice lias difficulty in finding a usable statement of them. There are numerous good books on binding, but they are either text-books for the use of practical workmen or expositions of the his- tory and artistic development of binding, written for book lovers and collectors. All these books are interesting and useful, but none of them give compactly just the information needed by practical librarians. While the Fublic libraries report of 1876, the proceedings of the A. L. A., and the L. A. IT. K., the Library journal, and other library periodicals and manuals contain nearly all of value on the subject, yet there are many partly conflicting statements which must be examined and some misstatements which must be corrected. Binding a book means not only covering it, but preserving it. As binding is always expensive, a careful librarian must see that he.gets the best binding for the purpose for the least money. Guard against extravagant or wasteful methods or habits of false economy, which are far worse. Good binding, even at a high j)rice, has the advantages of educating public taste and promoting a desire to protect a library from injury and loss. Cheap binding not only degrades books, but is actually liable to cost more in the end than good work. The labor expended on a book prop- erly bound in half morocco, calf, or sheej) should be worth about the same, and is not much less for a cloth binding, so that if unsuitable material is used, not only must it be replaced, but the labor, generally the most expensive item, must be paid for a second time. Each time a book is taken apart, scraped, cut, and rebound, it is more or less injured, and, if this is kept up, must in time be ruined. Strong, solid work and good materials are always worth their price, and 20 per cent added to the first cost of binding may often be regarded as insurance against further expense. As waste comes from not using material suited to the purpose, and as " the market is full of fraudulent materials, the beginner's first business is to inform himself carefully as to character; value, cost, and strength of all common binding materials. The most imi)ortant binding material is that covering the back and forming the hinges. This costs most, represents most labor, and has hardest usage, but must not wear out if the binding is to be preserved. It is therefore necessary to know what material is best for different uses, and what grades of different materials will give greatest service for the cost. All who understand this subject agree ou morocco as best for a book which is to have considerable use, but is not to be worn out 908 EDUCATION REPOET, 1892-93. in circulation. Morocco or goatskin has by nature a long, tough tex- ture, and is supposed to be, and generally is, tanned by simple methods and not by modern chemical processes, so it will not only stand con- stant hard usage but wDl resist better than other leathers the corrod- ing influences of heat, foul air, and gas. But moroccos vary widely in quality and price, and are so cleverly imitated as to deceive even the best informed. Not only is it often hard to tell imitations from genuine morocco when in books, but still harder to tell the different grades of morocco from each other, so the only way that the inexperienced can keep from being cheated is to employ honest binders. That only the best morocco should be used is not strictly true. Use the best for each purpose; but the same thing is not best for all uses. The best morocco is Levant, costing from $42 to $60 a dozen, or from $3.50 to $5 a skin. This is about 50 to 65 cents a square foot, or about 20 to 30 cents for each half-bound 8°. Though Levant is not only the handsomest morocco, but will outlast all others, its use in a library is generally counted extravagant, because its endurance is not propor- tionate to its added cost. Some few librarians, however, believe other- wise, and continue to use Levant. The morocco best suited for library use is the grade known in the market as "Haussmann" or "genuine morocco," which costs, according to size, thickness, and finish, from $18 to $33 a dozen, or from $1.50 to $2.75 per skin. All this grade of leather is good for some kinds of work, but usually that costing most is most enduring and hence cheapest. Morocco which costs from $26 to $33 a dozen, if it is of proper finish and thickness for good woik, will cost just about the same per square foot, from 38 to 40 cents, the difference in price representing the differ- ence in size only. Since the smaller skins are always open to suspicion as to their general quality and usually give more waste, those costing from $30 to $33 per dozen are preferable, unless for some special reason. A $2.75 skin measures about 7 square feet, so this leather approximates 40 cents per square foot, or from 13 to 15 cents for a half-bound„8°. As price of leather, size of skins, size of books, amount of waste, etc., are variable, all binding figures are approximations. The cheaper grades of "genuine morocco," costing from $18 to $24 ' per dozen, are smaller and thinner skins, and can be used to advantage only on small books having no bard use. This leather costs about the same as the better Persian morocco described below, but for most pur- poses is better. Persians in common use usually cost from $15 to $20 a dozen, though they vary from $10 to $24. The better grades of this skin are about the size of the cheaper grades of "genuine morocco," and average about 6 square feet, though some of the very best are as large as Haussmann skins. Averaging ordinary sizes and prices of Persian morocco, it costs about 20 to 25 cents a square foot, or, approximately, from 8 to 10 cents for each half-bound 8°. THE world's IJBKARY CONGRESS. dOB There seems to be little use for Persians, as ouly the better qualities, which overlap in price the cheaper grades of " genuine morocco," can be trusted. Librarians in this country who have tried it do not report it satisfactory, though English circulating libraries, like Mudie's and Smith's, now use considerable of it. Persian, though looking and wearing pretty well, is more apt to fade than "genuine morocco," and on exposure to heat sooner becomes hard and brittle. The lighter shades are apt to streak and scratch, so that the darker shades only are commonly in market. There are other grades of morocco, at from $G to $13 a dozen, but the skins are very small and thin and have no place in library work, and indeed are very little used for binding. The so-called French and German moroccos, $15 to $18 a dozen, or about 7 to 9 cents for a half-bound 8°, are not much used in this country for library binding, though many imported books are bound in them. While most, if not all, this leather is made from sheepskin, yet it is often so well tanned that it will wear nearly as well as Persian, and European binders do not hesitate to advertise it under that name. It should, however, be avoided. Another imitation of morocco made from Persian sheep is known as bock. It is a small skin, costing $9 to $11 a dozen, or from 5 to 7 cents for a half-bound 8°. It wears scarcely better than good roan, and is a dangerous imitation, because it is hardly distinguishable from morocco on newly bound books. A considerable number of libraries, however, still use it. Other imitations of morocco are often made from common sheepskin, bufflng, and other leathers, but as a rule they are not hard to detect. They are all bad. J. B. Nicholson (Manual on the Art of Bookbinding, Phil., 1856, p. 16) says that "there are in the British Museum books in calf supposed to have been bound in the time of Henry VIII." Whether this is true or not, certainly no calf binding done to-day will ever reach such antiq- uity. Calf in private collections is one of the handsomest«of bindings, but for library purposes it must be condemned. Grades commonly used cost from $21 to $29 a dozen, and the cost per book of the different grades is almost the same as for morocco. As it requires careful hand- ling in the bindery to keep it from soiling and needs extra finishing, the cost of calf work is apt to be still higher in proportion. Aside from cost, calf has many faults. It becomes brittle and wears out at the joints; it is reduced to powder by heat and gas, so that vol- umes will often break their bindings by their own weight, and on account of the even, close grain it is easily soiled and scratched. Though these bad qualities are generally admitted, some librarians still prefer to stand the trouble and expense of using it rather than change the binding on long and handsome sets, and some contend that it is a good leather for circulating books, as it does not rot when in con- 910 EDUCATION EEPOET, 1893-93. stant use. All having to do with law books regret that full ealf blud- ings are so largely used by British and colonial law publishers, as this style of binding is very dear, and yet hardly more useful than ordinary half-law sheep. Sheepskin, too, whether as black sheep, roan, or skiver, ought to be avoided when possible, as it is thoroughly unreliable. Roan costs from $8 to $11 a dozen, and varies much in durability and according to no known law, except that black and very dark leather is apt to be poorest. Skivers, or split roan, cost from $5 to $9 per dozen, and vary in strength from paper upwards, the best being more lasting than some roans. Skiver of course can only be used on very thin books, but even on them cloth is much better if the book is not worth a morocco binding. Likewise it is well to substitute morocco or duck for roan on much-used books, or cloth if the book will spend most of its time on the shelves, as roan will stand neither the effects of usage nor of time. Law sheep, $6 to $12 a dozen, and law skiver, which costs the same, though standard bindings for law books and public documents, and in considerable use for other purposes, are thoroughly bad, as they look mean, wear poorly, and are dirty to handle. Their use in libraries should be curtailed as much as possible, specially as substitutes are easily found that look and wear better and cost less. Without a doubt, better sheepskin than that now in market could be made. Sheep and even skiver bindings used for forty or fifty years are not uncommon, and the old sumac-tanned sheep was really an excellent binding, but the sheepskin now sold is hopelessly bad. Skiver, sheep, and roan arc worth from 7 to 10 cents per square foot, or from 2 to 2J cents for a half-bound 8°. Another bad leather is russia, but as it is expensive, costing from $3.50 to $0 per skin, according to size, it is not much used. It is stronger than calf, but, like it, wears out at the joints and crumbles under action of heat and gas. The theory that its peculiar odor protects it from worms has been long ago exploded. Much better than genuine russia is its imitation, American russia. It is made from cowhide, and is a good, strong leather, the best next to ^5norocco. American russia costs from 12 to 18 cents a square foot when plain, or from 16 to 21 cents a square foot when grained to imitate morocco, seal, or other leathers. This is about 3 to 6 cents for each 8° book for plain, and 4 to 8 cents for the fancy kind. Bufflng, or split American russia, costs from 5 to 10 cents a square foot, or from IJ to 2J cents per 8o. The durability of this leather depends very much on its thickness. When thick it can be used on maps, newspapers, etc., with good results, though better results can be had for less money from duck. For a cheap leather binding American russia is prefera- ble to roan or sheep, and indeed will wear better than any other leather except morocco. For law books, public documents, etc., American russia of almost the exact shade of law sheep can be had which will THE world's library CONGRESS. 911 wear far better than sheep and cost not more than 2 cents a vohime more than half sheep. Pigskin now in the market costs from $7.25 to $11.75, according to size, quality, and finish. It has a handsome finish and a grain quite as good looking as morocco. As a pigskin is from two to three times larger than a genuine morocco, the price per square foot is about the same. It is an intractable leather and requires careful handling to make it look well in a book. It tends to harden and become brittle if not handled often, and is suspected of mildewing, so it seems unwise to bind in it for general use. However, it seems a very good if not the best material for table books, such as dictionaries, catalogs, etc., as it stands rough usage without scratching or becoming shabby. The use of buckram in this country has never been large, and many librarians who have experimented with it have given it up. It is not at all cheap, as it costs 35 to 50 cents a yard. It is hard to work, as it takes glue^and gold badly. On exposure it becomes brittle and is liable to fade like any book cloth. Linen buckram, the highest priced and best, has been practically unknown to the American market from the first, though, as it is hard to tell it from the cotton cloth, the fact is not generally known. Wherever buckram is used duck will answer most of the purjioses at less cost, as it is worth only from 10 to 20 cents per yard. Duck is easily worked and possesses all the requirements for a strong, cheap binding suitable for circulating libraries, oversize books in little use, maps, and newspapers. On the other hand, duck is rough, ill looking, and will not take gold lettering well; and as it is not wise to letter on labels, one is limited to shades light enough to show ink lettering and dark enough not to show soil. Since the friction of duck is great, it is always a good plan to bind very large A'^olumes in half dilck with paper sides. The use of half duck on smaller books is growing in favor. Books having infrequent use, if not oversize, will last quite as well in cloth as in leather. Book cloth, costing from 12 to 20 cents per yard, will answer even better than expensive morocco, since heat and gas have no effect on its vegetable fiber. Eemember, though, that cloth work is generally case work and will not stand much wear. ? The use of vellum in this country has so far disappeared that no data regarding it can be obtained. Some of the English binders claim to use it with satisfaction. When binding in leather avoid both very light shades, which aremost expensive and will not keep clean, and very dark, specially black and very dark green, whioh may be tender. Skins which are failures in lighter shades are often re-dyed black, and this tends to rot the leather. The best colors are the lighter browns, red, light greens, olive, blue, and maroon. Bindings should be pleasing to the eye and sufficiently diversified not to rob the books of their individuality. But as it is annoying to choose 912 a color for each book and to have innumerable styles which must be matched, different color schemes have been devised and used by differ- ent librarians, some assigning colors to subjects, some to languages, etc. None of these schemes are without objections, and none are in common use. Reports of societies, institutions, etc., should be bound by regular periods, such as decades or semidecades, as they are more useful in such condition. Pamphlets when bound should be flush at the top so as not to gather dust. Some larger libraries bind covers of periodicals, pamphlets, and books issued in parts, some placing them at the end of the volume and others binding them in their original order. The cus- tom, too, is gaining favor of binding half titles, advertising leaves, etc., with the covers. This custom is not indorsed for any but very large reference libraries, as it materially adds to the expense j but for them it is strongly recommended. The public have the right to expect that a library maintained in part for collecting and preserving records of human thought and action will not neglect to preserve in original form the issue of the contemporary press; and a proper regard for the future demands the preservation of all the printed matter possible. Seviring. — To secure the best results in sewing — to gain strength and flexibility — the book must not be deeply sewed, and every fold of more than four leaves should be sewn " all along" whenever possible. If, how- ever, a smaller thread must be used in sewing all along to produce the correct swell to the back, it is better to sew "two on" or alternately with a stronger thread. Hayes's Irish linen thread, costing from 90 cents to $1.10 per pound, will give best results. Every volume above a 16mo should be sewn on at least three bands, and this number should be increased according to size and thickness of volume. The thread in all cases should always completely encircle each band, not simply pa'ss over or under it in a loop. The first and last signatures should be overcast or whip-stitched, or sewed with a sewing machine. All maps and folding plates in books which have much use should be backed with muslin, but as this costs 6 cents apiece, for less used books a muslin joint at the fold can be used, costing only about a third as much. All plates, however, in large volumes should be mounted at least on a cloth guard, or they are apt to be crumpled or torn. Books which are sewn on tapes, parchment strips, or other raised bands, last better and open more freely than others, with the added advantage of not being deeply sewed. Some suppose that they are not sewed at all, but as a rule a shallow cut is made on each side of the band to guide the sewer. Raised-band sewing not being generally practiced, and sewers being anskilled in doing the work, it is apt to be expensive, sometimes three or four times the price of ordinary sewing. But if raised-band sewing were more common there seems to be no reason why the cost should THE world's library CONGRESS. 913 be more tlian 5 or 10 cents a volume higher than good band sewing. Outside the large cities almost the only place where tape sewing is practiced is in certain blank-book binderies, and such places, as a rule, do not do good library binding. In spite of the added cost, books having the most frequent use should be sewed without sawing or on raised bands. On books of music, vol- umes of maps, plates, manuscripts, and other works which should open with the greatest freedom, tapes should be used. Tapes are not generally laced into boards, but are glued on the inside of the covers, so in this respect band sewing has the advantage as the bands can be laced completely through the board, thus giving the book greater strength. Every book, if bound for use, should have vellum corners, which, if properly put on, is a great protection in case the book is carelessly dropped, as it will dent the wood of the floor rather than break. These corners should be carefully skived down so as not to make a projection against which the siding will wear itself out, and should be not less than 3 cm. long on a book larger'than a 12mo as, in case of a fall, a small corner will help break off the board inclosed by it. There should be no added charge for vellum over leather corners, as scrap vellum is large enough for this use. Whether tight or loose backs are the better is hard to determine. The latter are used by most American libraries, presumably for good reasons, while the former are recommended by nearly all binding experts. In a tight back, the leather being fastened to the back forms part of the book itself, binding it close at every point and acting as a hinge joint at each place where the book is opened. In a loose back, the leather is hardly more than a connection between the boards, the first linings being all the support to the back; hence, at the joint at the edge of the board there is a constant strain which must result in breaking the cord if the book is in frequent use. Unless a tight back is well made it will not wear smoothly nor open freely; but when the work is well done it will outlast a loose back and will open very nearly as well. A loose back looks better, especially when finished with false raised bands, but as these bands add nothing to the strength of a book, and may even weaken the leather, their use is inadvisable. The cost of finishing the tops and edges should be reduced as much as possible, as all that is needed is to protect the top from dust. Bur- nishing with agate at a cost not exceeding 1^ cents a volume will do this almost as well as gilding, which costs from 10 to 20 cents a top, or marbling at from 3 to 5 cents, or coloring at about 10 cents per volume. In finishing the back all tooling and ornamentation should be eschewed, except perhaps plain gilt cross lines and blind tooling to divide the back into panels, and perhaps a plain gilt fillet where the leather and sidings join. The lettering should be in plain Roman capitals and ED 93 58 914 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. Arabic numerals, large enough to be easily read, and should be stamped on the binding and never on labels, which are liable to come off. Use of old English, German, or other fancy types, punctuation marks, and Eoman notation, is confusing to the eye and should not be allowed. It is a great convenience to have the lettering always in the same relative position, and the following arrangement is recommended: Name of author in top panel, with initials if needed; a brief comprehensive title condensed from title-page if possible, in the second; editor, translator, or commentator, if necessary, in the third ; and the year, whole number of the volume, the series and series volume, in the order mentioned, without prefixing v., vol., band, etc., in the fourth. Earely, as in news- papers, it is well also to add the months. When books are bound together put the author of the leading book in the top panel and its title in the second, and the author and title of the^econd book in the third panel. When books have permanent class 'and, book numbers they should be gilded on the bottom panel in 8° and smaller volumes, and in the top of the first panel of larger volumes. Lettering costs only from 3 to 5 cents per line, and the saving in time and trouble spent in constantly replacing paper numbers will warrant the outlay. Paper sidings are ordinarily most satisfactory, cost 2 or 3 cents less than cloth and wear almost Us long. They give little friction on the shelves, do not curl at the edges, fray at the ends, nor blister with moisture, as will cloth. Moreover, paper when worn out can be more easily replaced. Full leather work,, except in rare cases, is very costly, and having no advantage has no place in a library. Cost of binding varies so much in different places and with the style and quality of w#k, that it is hard to give reliable figures. Accord- ing to the answefif given to the binding circular sent out by the com- parative library exhibit, an 8° binding co^t^e-in— Boards Muslin Duck , Buckram Half skiver Half sheep Half roan Half buffing 28 to Half American russia . . . 08 to $0. 25 ] .25 to .85 ^25 to .90 .40 to .65 .50 to .55 .30 to 1.00 .25 to .90 .28 to .90 .40 to 1.00 Half russia $0. 95 to $1. CO Half yellum 2.00to 8.00 Halfpigskin 50 to 1.50 Half calf 60to 1.20 Half bock 50 to 1.00 Half Persian goat 37 to 1. 25 Half Turkey morocco 40 to 1. 50 Half grosgrain morocco . . .95 to 1. 50 Half Levant morocco 75 to 2.50 For other sizes there is quite as much difference and clearly no prac- tical use can be made of these figures. Judging from the actual cost of work in the New York State library bindery and from the prices for wbich work can be done by contract in New York State, it would seem that work, according to our specifications, in which all grades of work THE world's library CONGRESS. 915 are as thorougLly sewed autl carefully forwarded as in the best morocco (except that muslin binding is case work), is worth as follows: Slxe. Half morocco. Half duck. ClQtll. Half law sheep or American rusaia. Syiffbol. In centi- meters. % S 30-35 25-30 20-25 15-2tk 15-17.6 $1.50 1.20 .95 .75 .60 $1.25 .95 .70 .60 .45 $1.00 .70 .60 .50 .35 $1.35 1.00 .75 .65 .50 While in parts of the country, owing to competition and other causes, binding prices have gone down within the last few years, yet, as in most European countries the cost has risen in spite of competi- tion, we have no reason to expect that work will ever be much cheaper here than at present. Of foreign work the French is cheapest and most satisfactory. English binding, when in morocco, is excellent, specially in the for- warding; and German work, while sometimes not so good as either of the others, is now generally good, and is certainly an advance on that of a few years ago. The cost of binding an 8° in half morocco is, in London, 3s. 6d. [84 cents]; in Leipzig, 2m. 25pf. [56 cents]; in Paris, 2f. [40 cents], so money can still be saved by having books bound abroad. The temptation to start a bindery in a library is often very great to anyone familiar with the cost and character of good work. Good binderies and fair prices are not common even in l^ge cities, and in places remote from these centers bookbinding is eitHer crudely done or is charged for at fancy rates. A library Avishing flrstcTafes .jyork of all kinds will almost certainly lose money by doing its own work,, if its binding account is not more than $2,500 per year, and if it expends from $2,500 to $3,000 it will still be on the doubtful list, but on larger sums it should make money. Success depends entirely on a proper subdivision of labor, and no bindery can hope to make' a profit if it has not work for at least three hands. The experiment has been thoroughly tried, and enough data have been collected to show that none but large and rapidly growing libraries can expect to run a bindery at a profit, and that even these can hope for only small financial gain. One great exception to this rule should be noted. Some of the rapidly circulating libraries in large eities, where books arc bound for constant use, and with the expectation that many will wear out in service, have found that they can save money by doing their own work when their binding bill is no more than $1,000 or $1,500 a year. Not req^uiring good workmanship, cost of labor is low, sometimes less than $900; and by binding iu duck, bufflng, and other cheap materials, oftea using the old covers, the cost of stock is kept down, sometimes below 916 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. 5 cents a volume. They find that in binding 3,500 volumes or more they can save money. This kind of binding is suitable for this pur- pose, but has no place in a library which binds for preservation. In that the case is different. Suppose you have your plant, which will cost from $650 to $800, all paid for, and are willing to leave out of calculation the interest on both plant and stock, cost of light, heat, bookkeeping, insurance, etc., and you expect to do $2,500 worth of work a year. You will require a finisher at $20 a week, a forwarder at $12, and a sewer at $6, so in round numbers the labor will cost $1,975 a year. But the stock used in doing this work, if conditions are the same as now exist in the N^ew York State library, will cost from $575 to $625, so that total cost will be from $2,550 to $2,600. If, however, you do $3,000 worth of work, you may reqiiire another hand, an appren- tice at $4 a week, which will make your labor cost in round numbers $2,185, and the stock will cost from $690 to $750, so that the total cost will be from $2,875 to $2,935. These approximations, deduced from practical experience, are meaut to represent in all cases the highest cost and most disadvantageous circumstances. The indirect advantages, however, are many and val- uable: Safety, convenience, saving of time, certainty of having work done as wanted, and the ability to have work done outside at figures much lower than binders would give if they did not have to compete with your own. These advantages are not to be disregarded or under- estimated, but if direct money gain alone is to be considered it can not be looked for in a library bindery. School and College Libraries. By George T. Little, Librarian of Bowdoiu College, Brunswick, Me. The object of school and college libraries is to aid in the education of a limited number of persons. This aim separates them in a measure from public libraries and alone justifies the attempt to treat in a single cbai>ter of the administration of collections varying in size from 300 to 300,000 volumes.' No institution of learning can live without books. No group of students, whether young or old, can grow in knowledge without access to a library. This library becomes for the time being an agent in their education. Like any piece of school apparatus it may bring injury by misuse, lose its value by neglect, or, well managed, produce results beneficial beyond anticipation. In any case its purpose remains the ' The plan assigned to this paper excludes alike a statistical account of the present condition of school and college libraries, and an historical statement of their remarkable growth during the last eighteen years and of the striking changes in methods. Any occasion for the former is largely met by Miss Lodilla Ambrose's comprehensive paper entitled "A study of college libraries," published in Library Journal, 18: 113. THE WOELd's LIBEAKY CONGRESS. 917 same. It is there to supplement and make real the instruction given by text-book and teacher. So different, however, are its methods of working in schools of different grades and among students of different attainments, that at the outset a rough, distinction must be drawn between the school, the college, and the university library.' School libraries.— The school or academy library should be operated by the teachers without a professional librarian.^ It should be limited in size. It should require no catalog besides a simple shelf list. Each teacher should know its contents. Its volumes should be selected with the utmost care.^* The best and only the best should be the motto. It should contain every reference book that the ingenuity of the instructor can get his pupils to consult with profit. Duplicates, and even tripli- ' Recent thought refuses to treat "college" and "university" as synonyms, and diilerentiates as sharply between college and university as between high school and college. The college course proper'begins where the high school leaves oflf and com- pletes the gymnasial training which should precede the purely elective study and research of the university, or.the direct preparation for duty given by professional and technical schools. The word university, instead of being loosely used as a synonym for college, or as referring to a group of professional and technical schools, properly refers to an institution which in faculty, libraries, laboratories, material equipment and endowment offers facilities for exhaustive scholarly research of that type for which a complete college education with its thorough gymnasial trainiug is assumed as the necessary preliminary. Thus the eight years' gymnasium train- ing is divided into the four-year high school course followed by the four-year col- lege course. In fact, however sound this theory, few American colleges fit these proper definitions. Of the 450 alleged colleges and universities, perhaps a majority are doing more or less high -school work, not really requiring the four years of prep- aration. Of the better institutions, a large number, instead of beginning as they should where the high school leaves off, require a year or more of further prepara- tion for admission. Not a few, however, carry the college work over by a year or more into the proper university field. Then the word has in the past been so indefi- nitely used that many colleges are of much higher grade than many other institu- tions which have taken the name university. In reading this p.nper, therefore, the academy and university library may be clearly understood, but the theory of the college library will depend on what the college means. If "by strict definition it is the last four years of a gymnasial course, it will resemble the academy library niore closely. If, however, as most laymen assume, it is really an undersized university, then the ideals for the university library should be the guide and be modified and reduced to fit this conception. All will doubtless concede however that a sharp distinction exists between academy and college library; that the former is for the older school children, while the col- lege library treats its readers as adults. Between high school and college seems to run the line that separates the boy from the man in education, though he attains his legal majority some three years later, or about senior year. — M. D. • The words school and academy are here used to denote an institution occupying a single building for educational purposes, in which pupils spend several hours of the day in study and recitation. It is obvious that the libraries of certain normal schools and of old and well-endowed academies with advanced courses of study are not to be limited either in the way or to the degree essential to the success of libra- ries in city schools and country academies, where with diflSculty a single room is secured for them. ' The use to which such books can be put is well set forth in Library Journal, 8 ; 24. 918 EDUCATION KEPOET, 1892^93. cates in some cases, of the most popular and useful of these must be supplied. Waiting one's turn after school to consult Webster's diction- ary will destroy the efficiency of the library for the ordinary academy scholar almost as much as the absence of that work. It should contain an abundant supply of what maybe termed collateral reading: i.e., popular and instructive books relating to every part of the curriculum. These books should be bought only on satisfactory evidence of their being adapted for the work in question. They should be alluded to and quoted by the teachers in their recitations; they should be personally recommended to different individuals, and, in general, circulated as widely as possible among the pupils. When a volume is found to be both instructive and specially interesting let there be no hesitation in procuring duplicates. More is accomplished by five copies of a good book that finds its own readers than by ten good books that must be helped to an audience. .The school library should be classified by some simple system. The 'Appreciation of the distinction between general books of reference, books on history, on science, of general literature, is the first step to their correct use. The growth of the collection, moreover, must not be allowed to interfere with those material conveniences which make the use of books easy and afford the chai-m that so often characterizes the l>rivate library — spacious tables, a broad window seat, comfortable chairs. Better an extra easy chair than an extra case of government documents. But it must grow. Nothing will injure its efficiency more than lack of new books. New editions of standard works of reference must be secured. Eees's Cyclopedia was a most valuable work in its day. Its presence now in a school library of 2,000 volumes will rightly cast suspicion on the entire collection. New books for collateral read- ing should be constantly added. Whenever the book of the day about which everyone is talking happens to be fitted for this purpose let it be secured without delay. The addition of one such book may give the library an importance and influence in some quarters that it has hitherto failed to gain. One characteristic of the school library sharply separates it from the majority of public libraries. Its growth is limited by physical consid- erations which can be overcome only at great expense and with doubtful profit. Constant accessions must not convert the reading room into a book stack. In a word, the duty of withdrawing books when the col- lection is in danger of becoming unwieldy is as great as that of care in selection at the outset. The task is difficult, but quite feasible.^ Take care that some large library in the neighborhood has a copy of each vol- ume to be discarded. Then withdraw promptly old editions of reference books and duplicates no longer used, and cautiously that large class of ' The advantages are greater and tlie difficnlty less in liigh school than in public libraries, but even here the greatest caution must bo exercised, the only safe rule being that in all doubtful cases the books shall not be withdrawn. — M. D. THE- world's library CONGRESS. 919 books, excellent la their day, but less popular than their younger rivals; e. g., remove Mrs. Maun's Flower People to give place for Miss Harris's Wild Flowers and Where they Grow.^ These few sentences, though relating to concrete matters, perhaps explain suf&ciently the special field of the school or academy library. It should enable the teacher to round out the instruction of the recita- tion hour by referring the pupil to standard sources of information for answers to the questions that naturally arise; and, what is alike more important and more difficult, it should enable him to rouse and main- tain an interest in the subject studied by attractive and entertaining collateral reading. Its efficiency, however, depends largely not only on the hearty cooperation of the teachers, but also on the time and thought which they can devote to it. With the simplest possible organization much care and labor is needed to keep the collection in order. This often makes it wiser not to form a special library and to depend on the public library of the place, specially when this is conducted according to advanced and liberal views. Each room will still require certain books of reference, but in place of a collection from which shall be drawn the reading matter for the entire school, each teacher should be encouraged to call on the public library for the books required to illus- trate his teaching. The various methods of bringing about this helpful relation between the two great educational forces in the community are fully set forth by Miss H. P. James in the article on "Libraries and schools" (see p. 693). College libraries. — While the college library accomplishes much that has been allotted to the school library, its aim is distinctly broader and higher. Its instruction is confined to no curriculum. It answers all questions. It should teach alike the wideness of human knowledge and the interdependence of its various departments. While the school library does its work well with 2,000 volumes the college library may require 50,000. These are to be selected carefully and systematically, though not with that painstaking exclusion of all save the best which characterized the building of the former. A sprinkling of second and third rate books will help rather than hurt. For having in school learned to put his trust in books as the source of truth, the pupil is to discover in college how untrustworthy and contradictory a source some of them are. The varying factors of the purpose and the prejudices of their authors must be brought to his attention and he must discrimi- nate. In other words, he must learn to think, the best lesson a college course can teach. The ability to comprehend different statements of fact, to weigh the value of differing opinions and to form an impartial judgment as to the truth, means success in after life. The college library is the workshop where this trait can be developed and trained. ' For discussion of this weeding-out process for town libraries see S. S. Green's chapter on "Adaptation of libraries to constituencies," p. 698, and the note as to the serious objections to the plan. — M. D. 920 It should, therefore, be encyclopedic in its range and impartial in its selection. It is as unwise to exclude the Bridgewater treatises as out of date as to reject Haeckel as atheistic. There must be constant effort both to secure as soon as possible an authoritative statement of each recent advance in knowledge, and to keep on the shelves the best com- pends and popular presentations of each department of religious, natu- ral, and social science. Too often this completeness is sacrificed either to the inordinate demands of a few instructors or to a striving for mere numbers. It is pitiable for a college library to say as loudly as books can speak, " We care for nothing here save philology and political econ- omy ; '■ or to find another that has existed half a century, numbers as many thousand volumes, and yet can not supply material for a course of reading in the national literature. University libraries. — If the college library teaches scholars, the uni- versity library teaches teachers. While it is able to do the work of the two classes just mentioned, the function that separates it from them is the aid it renders to original research. It is an engine by which new truth is discovered. All knowledge is its sphere, whether that knowl- edge has been digested in books or not. Hence the university library is often called on to expend as many thousands on periodicals alone as the college library devotes to books and periodicals. The investigator must both stand on the past and be abreast with the present. The university library is not only warranted in storing away every bit of the printed thought of bygone days it can obtain, but is also forced to be constantly seeking the latest tidings from workers in widely sepa- rated fields. It must be catholic; it refuses no gift; it counts nothing trash. The college library may, the university library must, have de- partmental libraries. It must not only duplicate many of its books, but be so well organized as to place at short notice all of its resources on any topic in a departmental library or a laboratory for the use of the investigator and as readily withdraw to the central storehouse what is no longer of service.' The general public, too, has its claims. As the ideal university professor stands for the advance of truth in his depart- ment, and answers honest inquiries from the outside world as readily as those from his lecture room, so the university library should place its treasures at the disposal of any intelligent seeker after knowledge whose questions can not elsewhere be answered. COLLEGE LIBEATJY ECONOMY. ^ Despite these differences, it is often difficult to assign the library of a particular college to any one of these classes. It may be gradually growing out of one class into another, or by reason of special circum- stances may have assumed additional functions. With an enterprising ' On the method of aoooraplishing this, consult Willard Austin's paper on refer- ence, seminary, and department libraries at Cornell University, in Library Jourual, 18:181, THE world's library CONGRESS. 921 principal the library of a country academy may well supply the plac€ of a Tillage circulating library of high grade. A college library is sometimes called on to do the work of a State historical society, The existence close at hand of endowed libraries devoted to special branches of knowledge justifies a university library in neglecting its development. along those lines. In every case, however, these three classes of libraries are collections of books which must be obtained, recorded, arranged, consulted, and circulated. The methods employed in accomplishing this will not in most details differ materially from those i)ursued in the ordinary public library of similar size. It is pro- posed, therefore, to mention only those points of library economy which either in themselves or in the degree of attention to be given them demand the si)ecial consideration of the college librarian.' Unless otherwise specified, the following statements refer in general to institu- tions having from 30,000 to 60,000 volumes and purchasing from 1,000 to 2,000 annually. Selection of books. — This task, the more important the more lim- ited the means, is divided between teachers and librarian. Through a library committee, of which the librarian is the working member, a rough division is made among the departments of the amount avail- able for buying books and periodicals, a considerable part being reserved for special purchases and possible contingencies. Books are then form- ally recommended from time to time by the various professors and bought to the extent of the appropriation. The librarian should assume the duty of selecting books in departments not claimed, or, as occasionally happens, neglected by the faculty. He feels most keenly any deficiency of the library in standard works, either of reference oi in general literature, and is, therefore, the one who should endeavor gradually to supply this lack.^ It sometimes becomes his duty to check an otherwise exemplary teacher who persists in ordering only what is ol service to himself, ignoring the needs of the student body. The bane of a small college library is an ambitious specialist allowed to have his own way. ' The writer has had the privilege of examining the replies to an extended series oi inquiries, prepared by Charles E. Lowrey, librarian of the University of Colorado, and relating to every detail of college library administration. His regret that the space at his disposal will not allow the insertion of even a digest is lessened by the hope that a full statement of them may be printed later. Many valuable suggestions can be obtained from the annual reports of Melvil Dewey, librarian of Columbia College, 1884-88. ^The principles governing selection of books are outlined by James M. Anderson in Library Journal, 2 : 150. A full and logical statement of the class of books a col- lege library should contain is given by Otis H, Robinson in Library Journal, 6: 96. See also the latter part of Justin Wiusor's article in United States Bureau of Edu- cation, Circular of Information No. 1, 1880, " College libraries as aids to instruction.'- This pamphlet, invaluable to every college librarian, touches on many of the points considered in this chapter, and is here cited once for all. 922 EDtrCATlON REPORT, 1892 93. It may seem superfluous to add that each college library should pos- sess all publications of the institution itself and works of its alumni. Unfortunately, the experience of the older colleges shows the danger of delay or neglect in this direction. Great pains must be taken and patience exercised to give to this department the special value that comes from completeness. Hardly less important than the selection of books is that of periodi- cals. ^ Generally the demand of the progressive members of the faculty for serials in their departments is far in excess of the means to sujjply them. Each department should have some of the material needed in keeping abreast with discovery and research in that line. At the same time it is incumbent on the librarian to guard against such an expendi- ture on publications giving tentative results and preliminary sketches as will prevent the library from procuring the monographs digested from this mass. These latter will continue serviceable long after the journals themselves have become useful only in studying the history of the science. The college library, being debarred by its income from attempting to cover the entire field, should take, first of all, represent- ative periodicals in English sufficient to enable the student body to keep in touch with the subjects of the da,y, adding, if possible, one gen- eral or literary periodical of France and of Germany; then it should endeavor to supply the wants of its professors, having regard more to the use likely to be made by the various departments than to an impar- tial division among them. It is rarely the case that cooperation can not double this material with but slight increase of expenditure. Most teachers will be willing to take personally some periodical that the library can not afibrd, and ■ frequently will put this, with the exception of current numbers, at the disposal of the librarian. Many graduates will be willing to supply the publications of some society in which their membership is more a matter of general than of personal interest. Neighboring public libraries can be depended on for the loan of less used serials, while consultation at the time of making up the iieriodical list will often lessen the individual and increase the joint list. As a rule it is a mistake to discontinue a periodical taken for several years, except on account of a marked change in its character or standing. The value of the early volumes becoming more and more historical, this is increased in proportion to the length of time covered. Classification of books. — When the books suited to the purposes of the library have been thus selected by instructors who may be con- sidered experts in their several departments, and by a librarian who has access to the best bibliographic aids and has been trained in their use, there still remains the problem of bringing the books and the students together. This involves at least three things, classification of books by subjects, access to shelves by students, and instruction in bibliology > Thirteenth report [1890] of Justin "Winsor, librarian of Harvard University. THE world's library CONGRESS. 923 by professors or librarian. All admit that an arraugement of books by subjects is essential to tLe proper administration of a college library. There is fast coming to be a practical agreement that under ordinary conditions this arrangement can be successfully maintained only by combination with what is known as the "movable location;" i. e., a sys- tem of marking which indicates the place of each book by its subject- matter rather than the place assigned it on a certain shelf. As to the sjTStem of classification to be adopted, there is a wide dif- ference of opinion. In our oldest university library, " the idea has been to make such an arrangement as would best accommodate the officers of the university who may have occasion to work at the shelves." ^ In another young and prosperous university this object has been attained by a large number of departmental libraries, built up, it would almost seem, at the expense of the central library, which recently did not noticeably exceed some of them in size and attractiveness. At Cor- nell University, also, "practical convenience rather than any strictly logical method" has been followed in the classification adopted.* At Columbia College the decimal classification was introduced by its author in 1883, and the phenomenally rapid growth of the collection of books there has not as yet led to any essential modification of the system of arrangement. Not following the example set them by many well-endowed universi- ties, m:Ost of the colleges that have been led to reclassify their libraries during the last fifteen years have adopted some one of the fully elabo- rated and published schemes of elassifleation, too well known to rec[uire mention here, and have not attempted to construct a new scheme that should avoid the defects of the former and better answer local require- ments. It is in place to mention briefly the advantages of this course. Experience has proved these not perfect, but practicable. College or large reference libraries have used them with satisfaction. They have had the advantage of the best thought and criticism of the library pro- fession of the day, and the changes that the future will make necessary are not likely to be so great as in a scheme devised from the standpoint of a single library and necessarily molded in a great degree by its present condition. Again, the fact that their various subdivisions are clearly stated in print gives them a €tefiniteness that is of great practical value. The librarian, his assistants, and all interested in the matter can understand from the outset the arrangement that is attempted. Eeclassification may go on in different subjects without danger of interference. As a rule a new scheme is put in operation before all the details are decided. The almost inevitable result is that frequent changes are made out of deference to some influential teacher, whose views were not known at " ' Secoad and third reports of Justin Winsor, librarian, of Harvard University. ^"Classification of Cornell University library," by George William Harris, in Li- brgry Journal, 16: 138. 924 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. the start and may prove exactly opposite to those of his successor. It is agreed, for instance, that a chronologic arrangement of English literature is helpful for purposes of study; but it is not likely that three successive occupants of the chair of English will hold the same opinion as to how far this principle should be followed in arranging the books, or the number of periods to be recognized. The slighting allusions occasionally made by prominent librarians to these schemes seem often to apply to the notation recommended by their authors, or the minute classification which they will allow, rather than to the arrangement of books they aim to accomplish. The material accessories in the way of indexes, explanatory matter, and printed shelf labels, which are offered in connection with at least one of these systems, are of considerable importance and could not be secured for a new scheme save at a cost almost prohibitive to the ordinary college library. Access to shelves. — A scheme of classification having been carried out and made obvious by shelf labels and placards, access to the shelves becomes necessary, not merely to reap the benefits of the labor thus expended but also to accomplish the aim of the library itself. To have the literature of a subject together where it can be surveyed at a glance is as needful for thorough as for speedy investigation. Every time a student removes from the shelves four or five books on the same topic, glances at their contents and selects the one that in his opinion will best serve his i)urpose, he not only takes the most important step toward attainment of the desired information, but also employs his faculties in the manner best adapted to strengthen his power of judg- ment and to quicken his perception of truth. This tasting before one eats can not be done by proxy. The hand of the attendant and the moments of time intervening between the seeker and his shelf full of books is in practice destructive of this use of the library. A certain familiarity with the titles and appearance of books, only to be gained by repeatedly seeing them on the shelves, is often of value to the college graduate in after life. In some communities he is still supposed to have studied everything. His influence in his specialty is impaired if he shows ignorance of other matters. A mere knosvledge of the physical difference between Stalker's Life of Paul and Young's Concordance may convince all the teachers in the Sunday school that the village physician should be consulted in selecting the village" library. Furthermore, the idle curiosity that leads many a student to roam through the alcoves of the college library, generally far the largest collection of books he has ever seen, is frequently the germ of that bookishness characteristic of literary workers. Forbid the gratifica- tion of this curiosity and you may stifle a taste that would otherwise bring culture to its possessor. The difficulties in the way of granting free access to the shelves are so obvious as to be generally overestimated in the case of smaller libraries. In large libraries where these objections seem imperative. THE world's library CONGRESS. 925 freedom of shelves is granted to advanced students and to those specially recommended by their instructors, while undergraduate needs are met by class room libraries and large reference collections in the main reading room. Often the practice of temporarily reserving books for a- particular class, a practice primarily intended to secure equal rights to each member of the class, is carried to such an extent as to bring forth the entire resources of the library on a certain subject, and thus in part to afford the advantages of free access to the shelves.^ Departmental libraries.— The popularity of the student society libraries which were a marked feature of college life during the first half of this century, was unquestionably due to the prominence they gave to general literature and to the freedom of access to books they granted as compared with the college library. When the literary ac- tivity of these societies languished or ceased, it became necessary to protect their libraries, often more used than the college collection, by combining it with the latter. This union has been carried out very generally since the issue of the United States report ou libraries in 1876. The change, however, in the methods of college instruction has in the last ten years developed the need and existence of departmental and class room libraries. The wave of combination is fast followed by one of division. "The tendency is to make the university library to an • increasing extent a collection of department libraries round a center consisting of those books to the making of which different depart- ments have contributed in common and which they will use in common, and the method of study requires free access to the books in these department libraries." ^ This movement would make even the ordinary college library "a collection of department libraries containing books selected by the professor and instructor in that department rather than one library having a systematic and unifying principle of growth and administration." ( W. I. Fletcher, L. j. 10 : 268.) This necessarily leads to the housing in different laboratories and seminary rooms of a very considerable portion of the books belonging to the institution. The advantages thus gained may be briefly summarized as relief to the main library room, which rarely has the facilities both for a large num- ber of books and a large number of workers, greater freedom with diminished danger from misplacement of books, and assurance of the personal aid and instruction of professors in their use. (Edith E. Clarke, L. j. 14: 340; L. j. 14: 464; 15: c 143.) The movement is so general that its dangers, specially in case of unen- dowed libraries, demand a fuller statement. They appear twofold; on the practical side, the cost and difiiculty in successfully maintaining ' For access to shelves in college libraries, see Library Journal, 2 : 55, 69, 70 ; 10 : 221 ; 13: 35; 17: o70, c86; 18: 113, and fourteenth report [1891] of Justin Winsor. ^ Edwin H. "Woodruff, librarian of Leland Stanford Junior University, in a paper entitled " Some present tendencies in university libraries," read before the Inter- national Congress of Librarians at Chicago, July 14, 1893. 926 EDUCATIOIsr report, 1892-93. separately housed and rapidly growing collections of books, selected by as many different persons; ou the theoretic side, the lessening of the importance and influence of the central library as a humanizing factor in college life and as a unifying force in the different fields of intellectual pursuit.' In case volunteer assistance equal to that of trained library attendants is forthcoming from the various departments served, the first objection is met in great measure. There still remains the difftculty of seciiriiig a symmetrical gro-wth of the different coUeetions without impairing the eflficieucy of the central library by unduly stinting its purchases. With the increased use of the department libraries it is inevitable that the demand for duplicates will be more and more based on convenience rather than necessity, while the fields of knowledge not at any one period the subject of study will be temporarily neglected, unless the librarian shows unusual foresight and persistence- While many believe there is no time in college for what is known as a desultory use of books, all agree that it is the time to learn how to read and what to read. (E. E. Bowker, L.j. 2: 60.) Ifow, the central library must possess a iireeminence, not alone in size, but in attractive- ness, if this object is to be accomplished. The student must find in it not only that scanty "literature of power "which will elude many a departmental division of books, but also a first-class selection from the boundless "literature of knowledge." Otherwise his mind, however sharpened and trained by his special studies, will unconsciously learn to forego the pleasure of investigating the miscellaneous topics that have momentarily aroused its curiosity, since this involves the use, it may be, of a dozen different departmental libraries, all more or less unfamiliar to him. If, as has been recently said, our universities are dominated by the scientific spirit, it is the more needful that the cen- tral university library by its inclusiveness, symmetry, and influence should represent the spirit of liberal culture, not as the antagonist, but as the end and aim of specializing study.^ ' That there is great danger of thus neglecting a central library may appear from the following extract from the sixteenth annual report of the president of Johns Hopkins University. "• * • The sum of $2,000 given to the university by "William A. Slater, esq., of Norwich, Conn., has been expended in the purchase of costly books, not absolutely essential to our daily work, but of great attraction to students. The most of the purchases were in English literature, and among them were the best library editions of Shakespeare, Beaumont, and Fletcher, and other dramatists, Ascham, Milton, Evelyn, Johnson, Dryden, Pope, Scott, Wordsworth, Coleridge, Goldsmith, Lamb, Browning, Tennyson, Lowell, Longfellow, Whittier, and other writers. * *- *" The average college, specially if located in a country town, can not afford to wait for a special gift to place on its shelves the best library editions of leading authors in English literature. ^ There are two ways of combining the obvious advantages of both plans. One, too expensive to be practical unless in very rare oases, is to incur tho heavy cost of having both central and department libraries complete by the free bi'.ying of dupli- cates. The other is to make the library tho center of the university grounds, and put the cluster of department libraries, with their seminars, in rooms adjoining the THE world's LIBEAEY CONGRESS. 327 Instruction in bibliology. — Since Mi-. Emerson made his famous demand on the colleges for a professorship of books and reading, and specially since the publications of the Bureau of Education have shown what has been done in this direction and how it may best be done, few college libraries have failed to make some attempt, either through the librarian or interested members of the. faculty, to give instruction in the use of books. These attempts have necessarily been informal and largely spasmodic. Hardly a dozen institutions provide to-day system- atic courses of instruction in bibliology.^ This is due partly to pressure of other work on the librarian, partly to the inability of the college to find or pay a proper salary to a "good encyclopedic adviser in the flesh, ever ready, alluring in manner, and with an enthusiasm for his work." (Justin Winsor, L. j. 3 : 120.) All professional librarians, however, fully realize the need both of formal lectures and of that hand to hand, face to face instruction in the library itself, by which methods of investiga- tion are taught, exjjerience gained, and enthusiasm communicated. Quiet but effective work of this character is done in many colleges.^ Subject catalogs. — As a rule, college librarians feel it incumbent on them to supply a subject as well as an author catalog. So laborious and expensive is this task, when carried out with the elaborateness practiced in larger libraries, that many have envied rather than imitated catalogs such as the College of New Jersey issued in 1884 and the Uni- versity of California in 1890. Of late a prominent librarian has repeat- edly expressed his conviction that this costly key to the resources of a growing library must be given up.' The argument against its use in the college or university library is, briefly, this : It is harmful to the ordinary student, who, using it without discrimination, often selects from the numerous titles citetl obsolete or misleading books. To the specialist it fails to present the entire resources of the library on any subject, since it does not analyze and include many serial publications. In particular, it fails to mention the existence of important works not in the library. For the former a printed finding list of a picked coUee- geiieral library ami surrounding it as a center. Tliis would enable the students in. each seminar room to use the general books and the readers of the general library to reach anything in a department library by merely passing to an adjoining room. This plan requires that the space nest the main library- shall not be used for admin- istration, museum, general recitation, or any other purposes not requiring immediate contact with the library, since the space on every side will be none too much to pro- vide for seminar rooms and professors' studies in the great field of study of which the library is the laboratory where both professors and students must constantly w^otK. — M. D. ' The University of Michigan seems to have been the iirst in this country to incor- porate and maintain in its cnrricnlum a regular course of lectures upon bibliography. This course is fully described by the lecturer, R. C. Davis, in Library Journal, 11 : 289. ^A short course of instruction in Bowdoin College, in which some prominence was given to this feature, is described in Library Journal, 17 : c87. ^W. I.Fletcher in Library Journal, 17: c4; and in address on Library catalogs in the twentieth century, at "World's Congress of Librarians July 13, 1893. 928 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. tiou of 5,000 or 10,000 books of recognized merit will be more useful. The latter will find more complete and accurate guidance in printed bibliographies.' The subject catalog, in its development and almost universal use, is peculiarly American, and the views just expressed have yet to win general adoption on this side the Atlantic. (Justin Winsor, L.j. 8: 33; 16 : 214.) They serve, however, to emphasize the need of careful anno- tation of the subject catalogs in our college libraries by or under direction of the various professors, and the frequent reference to such separate bibliographies and bibliographic guides as the library Las. Many earnest advocates of a subject catalog would doubtless advise a college library mainly composed of recent books to check up an inter- leaved copy of Sonnenschein's "Best books" with its location marks, rather than attempt to make a subject catalog, whenever the latter course would unquestionably restrict the amount available for future purchases. The extent to which the printed dictionary catalogs of other libraries may be made to serve as a substitute for a subject catalog is seldom fully appreciated in smaller libraries. The recently completed catalog of the Peabody Institute, Baltimore, is well adapted for this use. The task of entering on the margins the location marks of the volumes possessed by a small college library is largely mechanical and can be intrusted to any careful student helper. Entering on the inter- leaved pages subject references to specially important new books will not unduly burden the librarian himself, specially if he secures the coop- eration of interested members of the faculty. Such a subject catalog being mainly in print can be used even more conveniently than a card catalog when the number of those who consult it is limited. Library privileges. — Nearly all college libraries during the last twenty years have extended the privileges granted undergraduates. The spirit that restricted a freshman to one book and a sophomore to two books each half term has practically disappeared. In 1877 it would appear that 1 in 7 of the college libraries were not open daily ; the pro- portion now is only 1 in 40, while over one-half are open upward of thirty hours a week. Then, as a rule, the professors only could make the col- lection a direct aid in their studies; now, by means of reserved books and long library hours, the privilege is extended to all students. The very few university libraries that do not lend books to undergraduates provide every facility for their consultation in the building. Many libraries still fail to allow an undergraduate to borrow for a limited time all the books he needs on a definite subject. Why this privilege, granted as a matter of course to teachers, should be refused to learners, is not entirely clear. The usual argument, liability to abuse, may be met by the obvious reply that it is in the power of the adminis- tration to prevent such abuse. A charging system that maintains an ' This argument is fully and ably stated by C: H : Bull iu Subject catalogs in col- lege libraries; in Library Journal, 15: 167. THE WOELD's library CONGRESS. 929 account with both book and borrower, and registers requests for books not found on the shelves, enables the librarian to ascertain just when liberal loans to one individual affect the efficiency of the library for others. (Justin Winsor, L.j. 3: 338.) In several libraries any under- graduate is allowed, on written application approved by the librarian, to borrow for a short period a number of specified books on a definite subject in addition to the usual number allowed him. In a small col- lege, or wherevet the rules provide for recall of books specially needed, this plan works successfully. The period of usefulness of each book added to the library is in a certain sense limited. The time necessary for an individual to make the proper use of that book is also limited. Eules about circulation should have regard to these limitations. The rule or practice so often met of allowing professors to keep books without a time limit antago- nizes this principle, and almost invariably leads to abuse. (Melvil Dewey, L. j. i : 448.) It has arisen from the fact that certain books are of more use to the professor than to anyone else. These books, how- ever, are so few in number that their withdrawal should be an excep- tion to the rules, rather than that the rules should be framed to cover the exception. The gradual abandonment of the practice of attaching the librarian- ship to some college chair has given the undergraduate another privi- lege, that of having a librarian. With some very marked exceptions, the librarian under the old r(§gime was for the teachers rather than the students. With so much of his thought and energies engrossed with other duties, he was necessarily a custodian rather than a dispenser of books. The opportunity of consulting and enjoying the personal aid and direction of a librarian of mature judgment, wide experience, and full acquaintance with the collection under his charge, is a boon each college should strive to afford its students. The need and the difficulty of securing this in every case are too obvious to require further state- ment. (T. K. Davis, L. j. 10 : 100.) ISTot least among the new privileges afforded college students is that resulting from the growth of the belief that library buildings must be constructed for readers as well as for books. Another article^ discusses problems of library architecture, and the college librarian should be acquainted with the facilities offered by the new buildings at Cornell University, and at Hartford Theological Seminary, as well as with the plans of the proposed additions to Gore Hall at Harvard. (L.j. 14: 121, 264.) Devices for popularizing the library. — Of various devices for popu- larizing a library several are specially heljiful in a college library. One, 'Illness of the author caused the omission of this important article. Reference is made to his paper on "Points of agreement in library architecture" {L.j. 16: C17-19), and to the two special works on library buildings, which the editor of this volume has now in preparation ; one a compact summary of the lessons of experi- ence, the other a full treatment of the subject. — M. D. ED 93 59 930 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-03. first used at Harvard, is thus described: "Slips of paper, headed Notes and queries, followed by a few words of direction, were prepared, and a row of hooks was arranged in a conspicuous j)lace to hold them. A shp having been filled out with a question and hung up, anybody who possesses the information wanted answers the question on the same slip, or refers the inquirer to sources of information.'" In many libra- ries a blank book properly labeled and placed in a conspicuous position is found to serve nearly as well, while requiring less space. A book of complaints may also prove of service. The peculiar ideas of honor prevailing among undergraduates prevent some of them from reporting iu person to the librarian annoyances arising from purposely misplaced books, loud talking in study rooms, abstraction of current periodicals, and repeated failure to secure a popular book, though allow- ing the expression of grievances through this channel. Even when a library is compelled to buy frugally, it is well to solicit suggestions from all who use it as to books to be bought. This can be done by use of a blank book exposed in a prominent place like the book of complaints. The advantage lies not merely in occasional discovery of a notable deficiency, but in the opportunity to become acquainted with wants and tastes of individuals making requests. Such request often leads to an interview in which the i^resent resources of the library iu that direction, its financial restrictions and the comparative merits of the book are so discussed as to excite rather than diminish the general interest of the applicant, even though his request is refused. The practice of regularly placing on prominent shelves the new books added to the library — new books seem always to find themselves read- ers — should be supplemented by disiilay from time to time of a selec- tion of the resources of the library on some topic of the day, or on some subject toward which the librarian desires to attract attention. This indirect method of guiding the reading of undergraduates costs little in time and is often as effective as more formal efforts. Cooperation. — Glancing at the condition of the college libraries throughout the entire country, one can hardly fail to be impressed with the restrictions that poverty places on the work many of them might otherwise accomplish. Of 450 institutions of higher learning in the United States only 200 have collections of books large enough to be ranked as college libraries. Of these 200 only a third have profes- sional librarians. Of this third a smaller fraction are well endowed and organized. Till this burden of poverty is lifted it seems evident that the only way for a general increase in efflciencj" lies in wise cooper- ation, both with other libraries of their class and with public libraries in their vicinity. The obligation to help, which always comes with the ability, is generally acknowledged by the large and well-endowed uni- versity libraries. This assistance, to cite a single instance, can be ren- ' First report [1878] of Justin AVinsor, librarian of Harvard University, and Library Journal, 3: 126, 159. THE world's library CONGRESS. 931 dered witliout expense iu the matter of cataloging. ISTo where is good cataloging more essential than in a college library. Nowhere is there so often a compulsory choice between buying books and properly cata- loging them. Yet of the new books obtained by the average library of this class all have just been fully and accurately cataloged by some university library close at hand, if one speaks from the standpoint of the mail service. If several smaller libraries share the expense, printed or typewritten copies of these catalog cards can be secured each month at a fraction of the original cost. For the older books bought and the miscellaneous volumes given them let these same libraries, joining with them small public libraries iu the neighborhood, group themselves geographically and engage a professional cataloger, who should pass from one to the other. Thus all accessions could be properly cataloged without undue delay and at far less expense than would be the case otherwise. The librarian,, relieved of this time-consuming work, for which, perchance, he has neither aptitude nor training, can devote his energies to duties of his position pi-eviously neglected by constraint. Cooperative cataloging, though so often urged and so obvious a means of diminishing the cost of library administration, is by no means the only channel in whicli union /of effort will bring increased effi- ciency to smaller college libraries. / The practice of lending books from one library to another has not b^en developed or systematized to the extent it could be, were there a hearty spirit of cooperation. Its impor- tance and usefulness depend, of course, on a certain degree of speciali- zation on the part of neighboring libraries and some consideration and inquiry before buying expensive works. It is a shame that two colleges with modest book funds and only 50 miles apart should each buy a copy of Sargent's Silva of JSTorth America, and neither be able to supply an inquirer with Scudder's Butterflies of the Eastern United States. It may happen that the institutions iu one State can make a single set of the Transactions of the Royal Society of Great Britain serve them all. This mode of cooperation is specially advantageous in case of the pub- lishing societies. In the department of English, for instance, no small college can afford to buy the issues of the Philological, Early Eng- lish Text, New Shakespeare, Spenser, and Browning societies, and yet by agreement with its neighbors it is possible for each professor of English literature to have a complete set of one of them at hand, as well as access to all the others at slight expense. By specializing on State and local history a group of college libraries may supply themselves with sufficient and suitable material for original work in American history. Let each turn over from its accessions all that belongs to the field assigned another, thus securing special rights as a future borrower. Students from the various towns can be inter- ested in collecting municipal reports and local publications. Others will be willing to undertake the compilation of scrapbooks containing ail historical and biographic matter of note that appears in local papers. 932 EDUCATION EEPOET, 1892-93. Such a course systematically followed for a score of years by a dozen cooperating libraries in any section of the country would give the teachers and the students in the smallest of these colleges better facili- ties in the manner of completeness of historical matter than is now ofifered by the largest. The department of bibliography, in which the university libraries have already done much elaborate work, is also one in which much more can be accomplished by joint action. The need as well as the demand for books like Adams's Manual of Historical Literature is ever increasing. Such work must be revised so frequently that it is unlikely to be undertaken and kept up to date from merely commercial consid- erations. Is it not, however, practicable so to apportion the field that the colleges of the United States may together give their under- graduates and the public simple statements in print of the scope and comparative merits of those books in English that are most used and best adapted for affording information in each of the departments represented in their curricula? Much that has already been done coald be used, or by reference made more widely known, and, most important of all, provision could be made for the future revision and issue of thase lists. No one library can and no publisher will do this. But all col- lege libraries have daily use for such a series of brief annotated bibli- ographies and together are able, through the men whose services they can secure, to prepare and to publish them.^ The college library and the public library. — If the proprietary library is the parent of the free public library, college and school libraries may justly claim rank as paternal and maternal grandparents.^ Though, as often happens on this side the Atlantic, the child has out- stripped its ancestors in size and importance, and has occasionally forced them to follow rather than lead in new and improved methods, still friendly, if not filial, relations must be maintained. When they exist side by side in the same town one can easily supplement the work of the other. Few would claim that the college student should be denied access to the popular literature of the day ; all agree that it must not be too accessible. The college library can, therefore, leave this field 'At the Chicago meeting, where this paper was lead, the A. L. A. publishing sec- tion was reorganized and is actively engaged in several enterprises such as is here suggested, and proposes to organize others as fast as the demand and support of librarians justify. Full information of the work of the section and of the different publications in preparation can be had from the president, Melvil Dewey, State library, Albany, N. Y. — M. D. To those who have read Otis H. Eobinson's report on cooperative college catalog- ing, in Library Journal, 1 : 434 — to cite but one out of many references that might be made — it is obvious that these suggestions are by no means novel. College librarians as individuals, however, have had so prominent a part in the cooperative work accomplished since 1880 that it seems proper to urge on college librarians as a class the need of organized effort in the same direction. '^ M. C. Tyler on the Historical evolution of the free public library, in Library Journal, 9:41, THE world's library CONGRESS. 933 to be entirely supplied by its neighbor. On the other hand, the public library should be encouraged by the college library to refer to it school teachers and all persons of studious tastes who find its collection too limited for their needs. The college, through the librarian and pro- fessors, can increase its efficiency as an educational factor by lectures or informal talks, setting forth its resources in the departments they represent {L.j. 12: 253; 16: 214). The use of a university library as a semipublic reference library is in strict accord with the general purpose for which the institution was founded (Otis H. Robinson, L. j. 2: 57). It is surely to their credit that a recent traveler has written that in America the college libraries offer the best facilities for literary work on the premises. In large cities it sometimes happens that the relative position of the college and the public library is reversed. The latter from its age and large income can supply all that the collegian requires, save a carefully selected collection of reference books in connection with Tiis recitation rooms. If the process of sifting or weeding out public libraries, discussed in another chapter,' is generally adopted, it becomes specially desirable that each university library should have the privilege of selecting cer- tain classes of books ; for instance, text-books used in the past in the institution, writings of its alumni, reports of charitable bodies usefal in sociologic study, before these are consigned to the auction room. In return for such gifts, temporary loans may be made during the con- tinuance of university extension lectures of scientific and expensive books which would not otherwise be obtainable. In a word, the spirit of mutual helpfulness is alike necessary and profitable if the two classes of libraries are to attain to their ideal. Fiction. By Ellkn M. Coe, librarian New York free circulating library. The importance of the careful consideration of fiction, especially in free public libraries, is never questioned. It was discussed at length at the first meeting of the A. L. A. in Philadelphia in 1876 {L.j. 1: 96, 98); also at the first meeting of the L. A. U. K,, London, 1877 {L. j. 2 : 255) ; and again at the Boston conference of the A. L. A. in 1879, when a number of valuable papers were contributed {L. j. 4 : 319). It is the subject of a report of the cooperation committee {L. j. 7 : 28), and of a symposium [L, j. 15 : 261-64 ; 16 : 8-10). Magaziues and periodicals are constantly publishing articles on the various relations of libraries and librarians to the reading and supply of fiction; the Library jour- nal alone in its 16 volumes indexes over 120 articles and paragraphs. Criticisms by men of letters and by educators which are everywhere met in print are not to be ignored by the library profession; no presi- dent's address at any meeting of library association or club fails to touch feelingly this important subject; and speakers at the opening of libraries always point the moral and utter the note of warning. Books I See discussion by S : S. Green, p. 698 ; also p. 918 of this paper. 934 and pamphlets in great number and of no little value have been pub- lished, and, indeed, it woiild at iirst seem impossibly to gain from this mass of material the fair judgment of the majority. After carefully reading some hundreds of books, pamphlets, articles, and letters on the subject, and considering the opinions brought out in the discussion of this and kindred topics at the A. L. A. Chicago meeting, I present the following as a fair deduction, not affected by my own feelings or opinions. Value of fiction. — The utterance is almost as one voice that fiction is of the greatest value in developing a taste for reading, but is most cer- tainly injurious unless of good quality, or if the reading of that class of literature is indulged in exclusively. It is agreed that false literary taste in the young may by judicious direction be corrected, but that in adults the effect of bad reading is almost ineradicable. It is urged that everyone should be familiar with the great works of imagination, and the fact is pointed out that nearly all the greatest — the immortal — literature of the world is fiction. The educational value of the novel is maintained. It is claimed that the imagination is the first faculty that should be developed in child- hood, but it is believed, however, that the reading of stories by chil- dren should bo largely in connection with their studies and under their teachers' direction. In particular the educational value of the historical novel and the travel story is emphasized as helping to fix in the reader's mind the facts of history, and as giving vivid and enduring pictures Of remote times and places. Such books are admitted to libraries from which romantic fiction is excluded. It is, however, chiefly as " pastime reading" that fiction is demanded, and the argument for its supply by the public library runs mainly as follows: The majority of people are busy so many hours of the day that when they have time to read they have little strength for such reading as may task the brain. Eeading is at once the most elevating and refining of all pastime, and people have the same right to it that they have to recreation in the public parks. While a librarian should try to guide his readers judiciously from lighter fiction to that of the best class, and also to works of more serious character, it is deemed dis- tinctly his duty to furnish entertaining reading matter to his public. The function of the public library becomes more and more educa- tional, and it is interesting to note an advance toward the radical wing of the division. Many librarians in their published writings, as well as in their recent letters to me on this subject, acknowledge that their theories and practices are becoming more §trict since they do not find the necessity laid on them to provide a great deal of light entertain- ment for their public. At the same time the value of the novel as a proper means of rest and relaxation after severe mental or physical toil is constantly urged. It is contended, however, that this may be provided in ample quantity without the admission of novels questionable from the strict literary or THE world's LIBEAUY CONGRESS. 935 moral stanclpoiut. Many writers on this subject deprecate tlie exces- sive reading of even the best novels, believing that in most cases it is only an excuse for mental laziness, and that it weakens the power of serious study and application, and unfits for the higher duties of life. Schopenhauer remarks that " feeble writing unfits us for stronger food." From this point the argument leads naturally to the extreme view that public libraries should draw the line absolutely at what is believed to be of educational value. Quality of fiction supplied. — Eegarding the literary quality of the flctiou which a public library should supply opinions vary from " admit whatever is called for " to " exclude the works of all living novelists while admitting very few by the dead ones," but the great and reason- able majority reaffirms the theory that "it is best to avoid the lowest classes of books and to keep up a high standard." A large provision of trashy fiction is not necessary to draw the public to the library; indeed only a very small minority expresses itself in favor of this practice, which would find its only excuse in proving that this kind of literature is the most entertaining. The point is made that much fiction which is light and entertaining is, at the same time, of excellent liter- ary quality. The pertinent question is asked, " Why should a different literaiy standard be applied to fiction than to other classes of books in the selection of which the greatest care is taken, and the opinions and criticism of experts sought in order that the best books may be chosen for library lists'?" Also, " Since even the largest libraries must select, as they can not buy all the novels published, why not select the best?" There is much testimony to show that the public likes the best books, and will read them when provided. One writer says, " Supply fiction liberally, but at the start furnish only the higher grades, adding sensational books sparingly to catch certain classes of readers when it is found impossible to attract them other^vise." That libraries should be obliged to furnish books which they would, for sound reasons, otherwise reject " in order to gain the public support that comes from an extended use of the library" would seem unfortunate, and a distinct degradation of the purpose of the library, that of public benefactor. The moral aspect of the question provokes little discussion, and that mainly in treating of translations. Feeling unquestionably favors ad- mitting in the original much which would be excluded in translation, always on the ground that this is necessary to the study of foreign lit- erature, and that the books will be mainly used for such study. The universal opinion is that as far as possible all evil should be kept from the young. Quantity of fiction supplied. — This varies, according to answers to my circular letter, from 10 to 45 per cent of the whole number of vol- umes in the library. The average is 24, which is somewhat larger than the 20 per cent advised in starting new libraries. The percentage allowed by the committee for the A. L. A. library was only 16. 936 The library making the largest provision for Action reports the largest yearly issue of fiction. Exactly the same fact was observed by Mr. T. Mason in determining the average per cent circulation of Action in 25 libraries of Great Britain, and is noted in his report {L. j. 15: 265-66). Fifteen per cent of the money allowed for buying books is believed to be ample for Action, these publications being usually of low prices and large discounts. Selection. — This is not usually, and probably should never be, left wholly to the librarian, as this involves undue responsibility. In most cases purchase lists are made up by the librarian from reviews, aided byrequests and suggestions from readers. "Books called for" are noted in a blank-book or on slips giving publisher, price, and, whenever possi- ble, reliable criticism, and are usually signed by the person making the request; duplicates wanted are indicated in the same way. These lists are ai^proved and should always be signed by a trustee, and preserved, in order that the librarian may be protected from adverse criticism. Direction of fiction reading. — This is not often attempted except through the annotated catalogs and lists, and by iireparing lists and bulletins of "Best novels," " Historical novels," etc. Bulletins of care- fully selected and annotated books suitable to various school grades are constantly appearing. Personal effort by librarians is usuallyjudi- ciously limited to such as is requested by readers or by parents and guardians. In small towns or communities the librarian becomes the acquaintance and friend to whom the reader naturally turns for advice, when the conditions become quite different from those existing in the general public library, where the keeper and distributor of books can not be held responsible for the moral and intellectual well-being of the community. Common-sense and tact must direct in this as in all departments of library work. Classification. — Fiction is almost always alphabeted under authors' names, and Cutter book numbers are generally used. Fiction suited to the young is sometimes separated from other for convenience in delivering books, and should always be indicated by some sign on the outside of the book which will serve as instruction to attendants in selecting suitable books for young readers. Fiction catalogs. — These are usually both author and title lists; if only one can be provided, the title list is preferred. Whenever possible, lists should be annotated. Very brief notes indicate place and period treated in historical novels, or subject and scope of the "Tendenz- Eoman," and these add greatly to the value of the catalog, whether printed or on cards. The little time and labor required to prepare these notes will be repaid many-fold. Happily much good work of this kind is already at the service of the librarian or cataloger, and much more is promised in the near future. Fiction lists which are not anno- tated should be accompanied by a comprehensive list of "best novels" as a guide to those wishing to read the best, together with references THE world's library CONGRESS. 937 to Boston, Philadelpliia, aud otlier "Historical Action" lists, Gris wold's " Descriptive lists," etc. It would not be just to omit from this consensus of opinion the report of William Kite, librarian of Friend's free library, of Germantown, Pa., the only public library reporting to me which admits no novels. This report gives assurance that, after persevering for twenty years in its extreme radical course, the library stands in its community as the exponent of the highest benevolent and educational ideas, and the man- agement sees no reason to change its attitude on the fiction question, AIDS TO READING AND THE SELECTION OF BOOKS FOR LIBRARIES. Abbott, Ly.man, ed. Hints for home reading. N. Y. 1880. Baldwin, J : The hook lover ; a guide to the hest reading. N. Y. 1888. Boston Pnh. Lih. List of hooks on hooks and reading. Bulletin No. 9. BtJRT, M. E. Literary landmarks; a guide to good reading for young people, and teacher's assistant. N. Y. 1889. Caller, M. A. Literary guide for home and school. N. Y. Harrisox, F: Choice of hooks. N. Y. Parsons, F., and others. AVorld's hest hooks. Bost. 1889. Perkins, F. B. The hest reading. (With supplements) hy L. E. Jones. N. Y. 1879-91. Porter, Noah. Books and reading. With an app. containing a select catalogue of hooks. N. Y. 1881. Pryde, D. Highways of literature, p. 26. N. Y. (18f^3.) Pycroft, J. Course of English reading, p. 65. N. Y. 1845. Richardson, C. F. The choice of hooks. N. Y. 1882. Sargant, E. B., and Whishaw, B. Guide-hook to hooks. Lond. 1891. Sonnenschein, W : S. The hest hooks. A reader's guide. Lond. 1891. .Van Rhyn, G. A. F. What and how to read. N. Y. 1876. Consult also the A. L. A. catalog, fiction list. annotated and selected lists of novels. Boston Puh. Lih. Chronological index to historical fiction. Class list of English prose fiction, including translations and juvenile hooks, with notes for readers, intended to point out for parallel reading the histori- cal sources of works of fiction. 1877. Catalogue of English prose fiction aud hooks for the young. 1885. BowEN, C. Descriptive catalogue of historical novels and tales. Lond. 1882. Brett, W : H. Best ten novels for the minister. Advance, Nov. 28, 1891. Geiswold, W : M. Descriptive lists of novels and tales dealing with life in France, Germany, etc. Guy, W : E. Pastime reading ; a partial list of novels that would prohahly be called standard hy the majority of readers, prepared for the convenience of those who are at a loss for some light hut good reading. St. Louis. 1891. 248 titles. Hardy, G: E., erf. Five hundred hooks for the young. N. Y. 1892. Hartford, Conn., Library Association. Author list of novels. 1893. (Annotated.) Boys' and girls' hooks. 1892. (Historigal and critical notes.) -See also Hewins, C. M. Hewins, C. M. Grown up fairy tales. Travelers record, v. 26, No. 6. Notes on novels. Bulletin of the Hartford Library Ass'n. v. 12. Our grandmothers' novels. Travelers record, v. 26, Nos. 1, 2. Some historical novels. Travelers record, v. 25, Nos. 2, 3. 338 EDUCATION EEPOKT, 1892-93. Hewins, V. M. Some novels to rearl. Travelers record. Ten years' novels. Travelers record, v. 27, Ko. 7. Hundred greatest novels. L.j. 17 : 55. LiNDEKFELT, K. A. Historical novels of Alex. Dumas. Arranged chronologically according to the date when eaoli one begins (etc.). L.j. 15: 270. ' • One hundred of the best English novels. Fifty of the best foreign novels in English dress. L. j. 15 : 67. Pall Mall Gazette. Best hundred books. 1887. Philadelphia, Mercantile Lib. Historical fiction. Bulletins, Oct. 1886-90. 17 nos. St. Louis Pub. Lib. Best books for the young. A selected and graded list. 1884. "Best ten," "Next best ten," "Best hundted," etc. A consensus of opinion. Bulletin No. 28, also in pamphlet. Salem, Mass. Pub. Lib. Some of the best novels. Bulletin, April 1891. Fairy tales. Mythology, etc. Bulletin, Sept. 1891. San Francisco Free Public Library. Classified English prose fiction, including trans- lations and juvenile works-with notes and index to subject-references. 1891. Sargent, J : F :, ed. Keading for the young ; a classified and annotated catalog. N, Y. 1890. Worcester, Ma.^ )2S K W ^ ^ ^ 'A D* 3 g c z § a s S c N N !? ^ N ^ >H tH t>< H 'A D o c C o o o O C t: tJ t) '3 a ;> ^ '^4 K ^ o Tl ?1 -1 CI S o o-S a © J m . 1 % a P S OS i »a r£3 * 1 7 CO ff a a 4 e is §5 02 € t o & o O -M O ffl ^ ^ c t- t=H >■ N ^ ;2i >- t> ^ ^ _t > g O c o c ^ o o c o c e O o |z s^ t- !2i i^ ;^ h- ;z ^ !2i !2i ^ +3 +j o O *■. • < OJ o m -w o to t: 4S fcO Q n fc .2 1 *< .■9g P 12 . ffl-^ ^3 1 C e c 23 g o o o .a gls afl C ^ N (1 ^ H ^ ^2 ^ li. !zi f-l tH (H £<2 4- o o s ■£"a oS-o Sag i tl '3 1 ei 1 xl i o ■s a o 1 J ' .1l.a c 1 go O D ~ OZ2 c 1^ c 1 •^ « ■ c > K^ < fi p; p 12 ^2 n s - J 3 =->i^ by separat- ing books and cliil- dren in the 141 all" o ': g 3 1 c < c ( ? 1 ' < i i i t> < f^ t> < Ph ^ tH iz t> P> t> ^ >* H c n 1 _c J III |5 _t 3 3*5;: 1 3 i-= 1 d 1 i 1 1 E S B " t^S 2 d i n: C n: 1 brary; Henry F. Pate asadena, Pasadena p library; Mrs. S. E. ritt. iverside, Riverside p library ; Mary M. Sm: Id £.9 BO 1 c t ( p a I . a la t mi 3 J 1 ;-i 1 ; 1 1 1 G i 1: ; C.R. Dudley, enver, public library; Dana. Bfe; < t- 1 C > P H p 5 1/ 3 tf ! » p 5 P ; «i THE WOELD's LIBEARY CONGEESS. 951 fe M S^i k !^ tfl (S « ^1 fcjOU'fl o •rf rt^ •^-^ £^ . -H V (0 o 12; 125 S o o q ^•a o o a 1= fc o p S o fe [ 3 g M 5 ® S -A Y-, to |Zi 9:3 13 Pi 2 ^ ^ rj m izi H I " g S o £ s a o r H S= i ^ ^ Oi- <1 fl • ■, • E,.!h rt^ o p^ d St s-s g .2 3 n ■^5 Ho « fc a nS-2 i^i H N M a O '- O H ■2 « B - Pi %i •a.p -iU s> a go g°> §3 1 ^1 ■0.2 o "^ w'i? a "Ohi; ^§ OH -3 >. .2.^ Hl,| 952 EDUCATION i^i |Zi i^i 125 'A |gil' S.-U E « '' £■1 &■«:« EH M (M H tx O tH iZi I2i ^ a. o d 'A X X Ya |x ^ 05 fQ O ■■2 a (D HO f*^ h o S to 4S -f^ V <» h O 3 I ^ izi ^ Ph 1^ ^ 4) BO !2i |zi .3 a g« IZi |2i ^ IZi ■^^i g^§ ^■a s O © (» t: S O - (H tX tH fl f^ f D g - a . m O ^ fl o Em fl . K a fl* a O-FH O a 'O S a ^ ^ . fc*^ ■2 -s ^ r o,';h a ■ £3 .W-aS o'O J= -e m fl ^1 &•"§ OH O O 'A "A ',^ 1^ 1H O M E . «=3 = S 2 o a>^; s » n =* «. ^ : §^^° § « B o . a. o ^1 = ^ O C tA ^ ; s ; i J s s o i a i 1 >^ EH N tM |x N N t^; H X H H tH ; '^^% 1 d G » i a 2 § g 1 -§ 2 5 "s I*- a i 5>s o o ^ d i» i» d ;»i k^ iCs !2i ;zi 00 !2i <0 IN i^i o .* c; o ill gj fl « O g ttemptB a when the specially ent. 0; they a children. s 3 s 1- CD a a ffi <1 |2i (X (H |x h t>H H h VI "S ^ ^ o s> ^a fe« ^f'^ d> o ^ Z '^ ign '-' DO r- I^.a ■<* o ^a'^'S o o o c O =34= C c o a B O t> a d |Zi ^2; ^ |2 'A d* iz |z |2i <1 125 |2! h Is tl^ •s^ !'s.s 1 1 .S 1 .f 5-^ .9 61) ■= ■a».aso ■9l3| (=1 c 1 d d c ^;^ O^ S_S I ■g ^ 5'"S-Sg§g ^ ^ i^i ^ H O ^2 > f & fk |Z5 H ft 6 1 1 .S3 i i i .& : i> : "3 i %i i 2-5 c i 1 If t4 CO O t> 43 c i i .2 .a a «§• gc:" ill H W < f2 5 <1 l^i t> >* M !zi f2 5 F-s »-^ ^ W ^ X ^ t> H > 1 H H X t> H 1^ eg g '3 '3 >3 ^ S .2 3 ? i >i § -i 1-5 S ■§1 H . S 5 g K : 1 ILLINOIS. urora, public library ; Sbaw. f Pig - LI. 1 .2 • l.i ; t ' =1 c 1 1 III J N 1 .^1 1 1 I 1 ^ 1 C HI i §,■3 S a 1 / Ills ,a pi •Sg ..tl) £.a F-i iz g ■* a o 09 1 2 > 1 c a > i-9 |zi !zi s o .1 1 so ^1 1 i o Id r 1 C |2 1 c f2 c Iz ^ 5 1 « 1 1.2 P X p: 1 V ^ 1 5 i 1 g 1 J ^ 1 i 1 ■+3 3 ^ S p ^ 9 1 (2 a s < 3 / \ i = H c / 5 O t. to ^ : ■IS 1 i < < t a i \ .S c ''■ J CO . g = g i •i 1 ^ E- ! IS J . ^ 1 ;co 2 i - • i 1 ^ 1 i I Il ^ 1 \ h U n ii ; Hi: aM Oh =11 . It THE world's library CONGRESS. 955 "A 'A "A 'A 'A 'A 'A "A 'A tx H H |x )zi H N N H !zi (>i O o »,.5 53 m" ® DQ S *"* fe-^ " a S - l»s''^ ..H ^^ U * I O (Q O "3 CD S|i| (O o f>< Jzi ^ * fe " , a |F OS ti ^ ea,o |2i H H Son o K rt eg |Zi P •^ ^ -"a ,3 5- SB o fl «! to s^ a 'A < >^ tH ix M H Izi (H N 'A n © A A fl aa fco'? fl bjQ ^ B 03 ^2; ^ !2i ^ !2i o |zi to P,0J ho S o <» a « f^ H ^ B.S.S 6 ^ % ^ •"■'^^ ^ "■a i > '^ a ^S.i "^ O * « fc! ■S 9 9^ 5 o pi .2 ° s • tpi o-a 3 S bo 5 « ^ o !iii-PI I SS'B-gg ^ s a f?i <( F> |Zi f5 ^ oSe.s H l^i H ;2i |2i !? t^ H !zi H N i^; SB 3& 11 fSa ".^ ^1" IS? > &a gS rsp;^ O J! "3 rt S r- t< H n ph fH ph .A a I.. = F^ lU S1 S ^ " ■g&§ 3'= a.g S ^a - cd « c3 h Fi4 M sla £? ^ s S H a . -w" - O CO ffi ra Hi Hi 956 EDUCATION EEPOET, 1892-93. 'A 'A N tx H 3 ) o o 13 ^ -H a -^ ■O^fl C^ n- s.= *3.&o 1-1 H Vi 03 O en Q> <1 ■e "=3 g c „ ^ ^o ft fl ^ tens • ' a S « 2*; u a a o 2 " ° o a a S.SJ .2 S® -£ a ■= — .2 a >i3 fi ! 3M □Q O C O i;ja^.a ^. ^1*5 a ^», g a tioS a a a E t. So g « = MtM aS r^ 33 ■ OJ HJ -H c:3 OT (c §■* a 9 o gj3.2 H a ■a:rt O En 3|S as '« a SomS . a-^'SS .2°ftS« H H ,2 m S^ H<( .2 . s - '4° SI »-„a n" ? " S, Su ■2 ^ ^ V. d F? ^* l>H h2 "^ o S 6 c 1 1 d "' 6 o- !25 H -A '^ l> 1 1 ^ ^ V r Q. C - c 12 years; 10 by special p ormis- sion. 12 years No limit, but the discre- tion of the head of the circulat- ingdepart- ment. 12 years ta (- rt E t "Wo sometimes ask a child to wash his hands before giving him a § . -1 ..9 d ;, a E ^ ■* Tes ; though we are ex- periment- ing with new bind- ing, which will obvi- ate that necessity. a. o 3 M ^ a 1 = We have Sargent's Reading for the Young, and Miss James's school list, to which our num- bers are added. They have a separate place in the printed Catalog. No__ We use the Sargent catalog, checldng our books in red. No M -S ^ "m IS a L. n H Y(j-+» -r- a O W S ff c r^ n P c ^ ^ !z c O ii 1 1 3 1 si Ii i t ".Si cs o „ % c i 1 " ^ i '^ 1 c. 1 11 1 1 1 1 ^ i ^ J R ;: 2 X \ \ 5 THE world's library CONGRESS. 959 'A S'I^'bS?^ "^.^/M 1^' I®. ^ o H o a) rti ^ ^ "U w (Q-ri ^ ^ ffi ^ expect to abolish it, but re- quire sig- nature of parent for under 14. i j'S t^ £ Pi 5 3 3 11 o (Era ft s — " o 8 O ss to 3 ni ,-3 _ QJ'^ I S S Jill 0-f3 ED ^ ti (2i o rt N |2i ®-P A A o fa i° S>a •1'= .■a •Sill iias IB ^ © to !/3 Ml' a n ©" >-ipl oa © n p. > 5 ?'2 03 ja o h ^ f^i : i H p; s ^ g M u H (O 3 ID H © © 3 n P10 ^a © ?^ H 03 M_» CO p p S3 Is tn a o pj a % < H 1. t* "S"? §03 Hf=< 960 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. ^^ S-^ IS «•«. o'a ~; tsoS AS '' •" „ s " a; r-<,a « u u ill H 4=1 U ™ .-P « " -a (0 (onH^^ ® o >:; CO o o rt if 533 c - 2 rt) s « o O H _£f O o o s « a S a|^. B o i _:, b "^ ^"T S^i «-^ ri b-d-M-S fe S ^1" g - •= ^ s j^.a •" .is 9 "^ !>iJ3 +* "S d "o ® ® S S fe o +5 .a fl a o a-g 2 S S ;2< -** '»_u5.y fl ® ^ (O'-I'H §■•8" a s t - " P o * feS o s -(J ■*r £ g o .2 - bo o g.2 «.s"s ■i-s a'w += © +3 tr ^ri 9 C H N -1^ 1^ s 1' =1 n cS ED 93- 5 a . 1-^ 3^ H-S^go ss ISl-sa s izi !2S S£ -61 962 EDUCATION 00 ^ o 1 1 o 'A o "-A o o c o iz; o - ^ O ;^5 09 1 1 J 1 1 ? t- g 1 H o a > ' o Mi 1 i lA • i ■* o o o w 3 S o =^ o^ a ^ S > ;2 03 rt C3^^ OS 1 O .2 J [2 \ % ■< > O ,i 1 % i < 5 \ "i: ;^ 2 1 fg| 1 3 C is E if ; - c ? i < iti 1-3 i ^1^ ^ J "m ii uDm c r ^ N 1 t \ 1 c y 5 p. 4 SI THE world's library CONGRESS. 963 a '3'o-j « ^ oa -*3 -t- ;:h 09 O M .1 E n a « rt ^1^ ®ir f^ 3 L- ' O t^ '• S^g.; ;> ■» -a 1 ■^ 3 S c g^^g M H 9G4 EDUCATION EEPORT, 1892-93, 'A "A 'A 'A 'A 'A ta R 2 " ^.2 '= » 3 fes - ■fi •'■■ 3 ^i ?2 f*^ I " «; - - © p CO r— ,- go >.-B ..a g A r% 2 ^ i2 1 -te « rd >--(3 ffl ®.2«;:3 S+*«4H * « O g o"" g (->g p P- a ® ffi O QJ §3-1 gas Si! ■II i a o S ® o « S f^ iO _ .a ■*^jaM e^f2 o 53 a ■g'S&Sg-g W 3 M i g a « II §\ - w m3 O P40 S <1 eS {- CD ■S -s a t->g ^ ^-i J i3| 1^ ■■s a gogfi B fi g& J aw = B a ad-s u^ «ffl af m fi s THE world's library CONGRESS. 965 is S M ud .9 * s| II 2 © > r4 P4C3 i2i ;2i ^ ^ -<< v^ « l2i 5,= d d |2i !^i lis a^ o TO .-¥s ■■So ^§=3 2 « t. u 3 I >jM -; ® OS (0 ;r I d d a 9 " -o 9 tn-w * d O p4 § « g x|£ « >,®J |-g d d "y c rt * o ea h CO - T u c3 » -- d " o 3 § M^ ffi p ^ ^^ O CO © P O ■2 j: 5 S g d ^3 a) Pa g o -1-3 u u o 3 ea si <-* d o M'.S =« b S © '^ -a F-< O'rH s5 ©.a +3 bi}t>. © 2; * ^^ S fci © p^ © R O ^ .rH o rj -P © 5 s-K S © rt-^ ©§.S ■^ a Hi © cd © 3'J .2 .a 3 r-~ ©"f^ 5 = 2 ©-S| s s « o^ a CO o a « n ga- in 3 n 9 9" _ 5S _.- © « o o © S 2. JJBIm 3 •s p. B O ©-£> s s >£ . ©o- OS 11 15 =3 d H ^ *1 o ^ <] s w _ bo p-a "a ^ © gto o . t-il-i.jH a m2 40-^ ^ ^ no 'I d ® o fcdO 05 .a © p p ^ MP .p « p : ©.s f: ■a a 6g H" ; «P II '? §'5 fc< y ^ be % 5 ap a « lis ■A < w Sg.3 ; « §^.a 1° © ^ 9 © « rrj .1^ -P d °0 = " S © S=s i&0'^0©'©0 O t^ W <( « o o S ..p S©=^ pS^ © WSgW »r ^ fcj c 5 3 © m • §■§ pS ^3 Ha a .Sfcbg ii p S «3rt o-^ 2= a-s &■ ^^ 2 P - ^H © © p P tSS sS« ©H ;2i I pi g^d 4^ €9 e as |zi |zi ^ ;zi i^i ;2i J a 3 -** ^ ft o S -3o s a'"« p. p « g oS o fc fe-^ "•« .S * oi I* a S 0) o gi* o.a o s m ft -5 fci} sSS 2 g S iTfl fcD.2 g.2o B So** S 4 e«s " go S ^ ■§ = § -a O0S.S '^ a K o ■- ^ (0 o n £ r"=> wig 3.2 -go s H o oS p - tj'c eg " .a a a o B , 9 ■*= to rtti P o *= h O o a " §1 6"** ol So -*3 ^o g '^ o o o 1 EPS " b-,& ■< 12! (O-rH -t^ o m -♦* Oil Aj H B go «3 S w J 1 1 ^■- o g St 5 o o o •J3 60 «2 •s a figs rt _|S o ISl .2 eio-gj ->;£?" o fc ^ 3 . « S S o «£ M 1^3 lis 3 SO u - n ^ to si ■S -f-j a: a g CIJQ ^ ci tj ©~ ^ o"-I? -«,a Of-' p w o pj o* «" n S tA . o b o '2 da II ^ i^i |2i ^ f^ l^i « «a 9 ©4^ ■ fcfltfi 2 O ff J -4J ll ^ p-^ ffl ri am n "J n ct B ^ 5 g o S« g .S += t3 a P o a " " o o 2 Q ® O i 4a ^ a u C3 g 0) >i.a'3 3^ O •- O >, Sfa » p bo F 3 « s ^ a ^1i I — « rt s a:*!iaa S » n gtj 3 g t^a > -i 'cS .s-^ 5- ^ ,sg 1-1 ^^ © —4 © S a >--^ •a 5 ti n ^13o Pa 3 H ■3 © tn <2a O p © 1 =; < .•a -B MS s - ra a a o S a ^' qg»+^ »a& Obi^ . to .. §3 to BOO p"^ tj c a S S b <1 ao "H P o 10 P4 5 o y= « a^ a H M a«! 10 a u g g " <( . .2 fro .pl-'«i ^aSo! tuobca ._ B'S a a ■Bg^.2 P P c3-*a P H cS-t. ." o a a B OS ^ &&P ,a M a R a fu S W '> s f-.S -p c»> P B ■V-a P ,a K pai c eg 968 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. i-B 03-^ (D Jh « . „ . O ffl +3 += +3 I |2i N Jzi 5S.S ■*= a; *3 i2; S2 o I ^'g'S-y-g S s S g=fl s's g^s g^-%$ a « ^■o^ g ^ S g^ 3 . » g g I g £te Sja =-S "^ o s, "''='■§ £-S ti !»!? 18 £ e3 5 a) S Its •a o e ill g«.3 G & o ® ^ p,"j S b S S'^ fe '-^ yip5g:.g^^.s>-; -----« E'3 s,* .^q p ft^-d £■-£- ■S-S P ^ B „« P.fc S;* fl OS oC^.rt 121 H a '^ sa 0^ P 0! ? Oil "^ 2^ si . 1 5:1 ■§ »S ffl P ^ 3 ." 5.5 a ■^ '>n3 - ^S^2 •««:"« 'ffl !-.„ C K © fi, " p^ cc-o w « J 2 p. P!0 .a o &^ go o s3 : O 3 5 - 2 2 s 2000: ,a p '^ 2 ! ^[3 2 „j t=g? M ffl— ■ sis <1 +3 d m §a-2 ■< . - >>? S n-a . O ©T <1 p hue ..ffl o 8 p t> a H 4^ .2 ^ "^^ 3E;g-s <1 ftPsga ©0*3 s - M2 s a a, ■a^ bo .•i S M 5 43 ■SSsSo § ■ CO k p V 01 a la's 5 s g.g ■3j= Sn = is ="S.i'§lSS '^ « — ] gal's Slit ™ ir 3 .3 6* fig. r^ m o 2; ."tj k1 o 3 9 ^"'? g'.o^ "S-25?-a = til i-S oS I»Ph «2 "^^^ ■= f^o 1^ 25 bo 1. 31 II &| ^ H tH • ^A ,0 a a o ai /. X „ En] O O 0} 6^ &» '&s iSv< i S " ,= «) •3 -■-■§ ■^ bom o - O O OS, So (D bo 3a si4 ^ +j o ml S3 'I ,.S bot>= o c^ o .2 3043 S i as- ^h" P O S ,g . r^ ^ ^- 3r"^ Iwag43 5 ^: s .-2 tr. a .■§15.. a -Si ;3 . 43 -r; 5 ^ fl ® ^^ « ffli^ *^ i=l t, - a)- - ,o-..S tig >. I £"1 § g s o s ? P- K t^ W -1 1^ 0^ p . o m g-S ^to . a^ Kg flO 1^ o . 1^ 970 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. 12! |2i "1- 5H O 9 St^w ;2i ;2i |2i o a ftHSSo ft « ^,i^ « . 'S ti-^ ^ a w fl 4^ fc^S d ® CI bnU rt o " a ■= «j g g gssSs as sja o w° » s a a : H "» "S ■3 W? .go o d 5 « ^ ^ 2 :i .s "■9 ° S i| CO e> § = u O '^ § ■ S fcD ai ^ a p (O a> ■ 2 '3'S 5 «■» |<2 S B 9 " fi o P^ I o * © iS'2 13 5| «3 "S ■silsai 1 g S'43 «j 5 n a»g8«!g a « fc 3 go S^ o 3 o a > o a -a g « J M 3 g^TS^ to" °5 . 1 « 2 ® «> S » j«.= 0^ (0 -^ o ?S 2 <^ l^|s.g ■& Sills I '^ |2! B a a ^5 gj -w -^r^'Ci 3(QV( —u 5 ^ -a fl ° *^ O i .CD ■st= - ^ 9 ^ ^ p t- = o en p'a feHP-i a . of4 C .„ 3 aiO . ^ -(3 Qj 03 9 □ d (§§§•5-2 13 >" gl^ « fcj d t4 O 5 « fcflO - '^©'^ Eg ^1 o eg ® a ll £ o a !2i a o g o g s a " § 53 III! •-05 (0 o bDW JH to o n n p^ O ifl bl Ji^ o Ti bC «3 ^^ CO 2^ ® S qS O ro O "r3 C3'-' ■^ s s ° s '35 e a 5-^ 'o •a Si E" si S f" BSg = - « 2 WM. o f-t ^O p,o . .© ra < < ©M=S .S«£ OB -ffl r? S 3 2 g Is??. « liSi I II 1^ ^ j^ o 5 «j g ggrgM d ..a o o ©c„ S3 5g <1 o .2 -sa 5 <1 .a a s s o g ■a i 5| » Sn-3 ■3^1-* o a St3 11 g 3 tc pi. s3 P..D >;.0 ^_M oZa -2? a^'^.oS-S o O l%i^ e^5 5 >> O J. Hfk o - S-. 52 '5 H O <| ■325 2I S J f » S litis. ©,3.2 E'i ■"■ O C) * © I at I? C « J o = ® O 03 _ « 3 ph •2 g ^ il !zi h ""to ^i § ca o =d p^ e « =^^ £5 II >.S a = '=^ d -y .^'^; o-aj , 'J 01 > ' © -/J -^ -iJ,— r ^ M 05 x:- = = * i; © -^ == 5 '^, _2 ^^ -S -2 ®>^ -^"^ = o« 4f 2 O _, 5 +3 5 o ^- S - '^^ ^ P^ h f- M S o •^ 2 *1j2 2 O CD O • I-i 5 t a ^ .ti -= S -" rt '^ " O - - O l'^-^ fc£i O <1 « .1-? 1^ H 03 ,^ <8 Ma5s »- o 0^3 5 2(.'. = .S J I 8 g.^ &^ «ni5 s ■= « g g "S yg S<»S '-El 5 s a t> "2 b" 9 S * |£ = ■2 t= 3 S =3 H g M fl 5 alls © o ? p IIS.? 974 EDUCATION O . ii 9 S |2i /^ !2i ^ o O I 8h S rt s O b- 33 " &== got, g S S § ti ^-g O ffi E _ -I— -j-i _ -3 3 J E >> 25 H CO S3s 1^ CO 03 IS si's O lO ■is 05 m > 7^-t^ S3 bc« "J ^1 £ .2 o ^ o §■3 £ fl «.S ^ 2 ^ 5.S r isi2H°a . ^ O S3 -,S S 2 B^ g a " OB-OS a K § ss a mbS'SS ® s *^ © S3 aj tj ■sJs > ° «S ?• n.2 s^ i:-sH 2 §2 S so >=S . *^ "8»>2.»8S : gTS-S 2 ° 5 ^S" 111 53 p,S „ « 2 M§ .S?oS.2f^S ■S| is gig's r: a H S3 .S S3 ■2|1Shj = 2«S-S.s 63^ >i^,a (0 ftO sis « BO O C O ■2-3 a p.'^ a g c5 do's a a fcD3 w "3 "=> S M .a to M ^ fco 1^3 O X ^ pHl Q) IS o o o P >■. o n ©-?< to- 1 ft £f 61 . <)a (9 <1 be© 61)60 h3 1h 0-- HO 11 lb ■sa Or5 o |.2 S50 ft -2 33 ^-1 ©2 a^ Si-I S3 ^ la O V as © - "a to i5 o "*r I— ( ^ ^ <1 6 I S3 ~-::s o o !2i l^i ^ " a h1 t-i .-I M f^ H .2 . a © a S3 R U O « O Is &-• to eft f,?, £ cS ~" > o si 611 . aMSi; e^ gill oH 3 a sig Ilegheny, library; "W 8on. ermantown library iW liladelphja, Library Co Underbill. a"b ■=1 O Ph !C THE world's library CONGRESS. 975 ■H g as -^1 4 ■3S- S9 fegsi CO >)' .S'o.S c a— n a,a o 2 « pa a a sg g sj o j^i= ©' n ^ ^i p.^ ^rdc^ ©■«•?- A^ ).2 " a: S-caSJa-wjao-g J fflS 2 ^^© S a'" "« £.= ■«■» o.= ? © « »rj g'^ pa:.i^"m^«2o©"caa© o.as=-SoHSS.oaS.a ft? ;o © c3 lo a c oj-aP- 2 a -i-S? ■3 S'^ s © S.2'3 3 J ? o I o=! a^ P'^* = B O 2^S tog © o M g £ t-.S .3=22 S o a © g •-So O B.M £=1 O OS CO ■*- o^ ^^ u CO® 01-? o^ a c.S " fi o t. .-.^^ j^-=-I- S^ 2 '^ gs as -■g 0^ ^'' m'"' ■•=i Fl f^ -til +^ Q 10 cd © .25 o a «>■?. " 2-2 ^ a g .» gsss o o rt r3 OJ k CO A 2 P BD o o n w ast- © S3 S o-*i ea « to g'q« fci.a a ^'^ S^ o^3 © oj g ©.a-g .^tS ^ *.* a --71 *^+j o a ■goals „ = ^©IIjS .2.2 2 PC a CI o .^ ^ p «5«35so ©5 <1 o fco 15 "2?n K~fc Cog a p.-" ■g t-;"? E3--C ;4 A W^ t? M OJ 01 i| ® cm a 'Is °> ^8S p.a oPh a 1 =-J3 ^a i?P .- C l>. ^-©-^ |3S .a>g <: <4 §i!&^ n::- ..S£ P C M a : 9» 'a © 2.nS,' l|l.2 e'"-ai^ o Re ^ = °1 , o « II a. O to 5 gaf^ WH ^.-2 .*.*"_r © t ■; <1. „- c P ?5 51 ""5 03 to J3 © =3 ^1 e3 2 d g ^a ta - ■- « ■££? 2 « ^3 ^ ■30 k « rt pig a3 © OH a . (o a .£S-3a fi- .£' © ^ .-i ^- a ^'^.'2 > o 'ir 0.== 04: S S 5" a .Sja a n .PS Ovf B 3a -4 ^ f-t > i! 03 &-2fe: 976 education eepoet, 1892-93. Reference Books. By Ernest Gushing Richardson, Librarian Princeton College. The "reference book" in current library use bas three recognized meanings: 1 Reference book proper, to be consulted for definite points of infor- mation (rather than read through), and arranged with explicit refer- ence to ease in finding sijeciflc facts. 2 Books not allowed to circulate, but kept for " reference only." 3 Books accessible to the public. These definitions are historically related in the fact that the reference book proper, on the principles of frequency and urgency of use, and specially method of use, needs to be restrained from circulation; and, as the most prominent class of restrained books, gives name to all books which do not circulate, including those restrained on account of special value, and even other varieties of kept books. 'Again, from method of use, this class of books is most troublesome both to user and to libra- rian, if each one must be signed for and given out, so that it is the first class to compel placing books on shelves accessible to the public, and thus gives name to a class which may include many works not strictly of reference. POINTS OF AG-REEMENT. 1 A good collection of reference books is fundamental (a) to the proper accumulation of a library and (6) to its effective use. a The first step in founding a library is to get a suitable collection of bibliographic reference books — bibliographies, publishers' and library catalogs, etc. This i.s the way Dr. Cogswell proceeded in building the Astor library, and what Dr. Poole has done in the Newberry. It is beyond dispute the only sensible and economical way to gather a library, for such works guide to the best books on a subject, the best editions, and the best prices. Moreover they often furnish in themselves indi- rectly the due to what general works will be most useful; e. g., the "periodicals indexed in Poole" have been gathered often simply because being indexed there they are far more useful to the public than many others of equal intrinsic value. This principle is capable of a much more systematic application than is generally made. h In all libraries, specially those of research (including all libraries at all touched with the modern library idea), the most important of all books, except the small number of literary masterpieces, are those which aflbrd : 1, Primary information on every subject; 2, references to where fur- ther information can be found. An extremely well-collected library of general works— history, biography, etc. — lacking good reference books may, quite likely, be far less useful than a rather miscellaneous one with good cyclopedias, dictionaries, indexes, etc. Stress is laid on this THE world's library CONGRESS. 977 circumstance since, from the fact that reference books are generally relatively dear per volume, the policy in medium- sized libraries is too generally to neglect these for "much called-for" travel and fiction. 2 Wherever practicable, means should be taken to train readers to use reference books. This is done (a) by individual assistance to read- ers (see chapter by Poster) ; \b) by lectures, as by Dr. Poole (L. j. 8 : 51-52) and by various others, specially in college libraries ; (c) by printed guides to the use of books (Green, Library aids, handbooks of various libraries, etc.) ; (d) by devices to induce practical use of the books (e. g., Library questions and answers, L.j. 3: 126, 159). 3 The following classes are reference books under all definitions: General bibliographies, general cyclopedias, general dictionaries of words, persons, places, or things, atlases, and general indexes. 4 The most used reference books, with all unique and excessively valuable books, should be restricted in circulation or restrained alto- gether. The reasons underlying the restriction of books are (a) that they will be needed by others ; (&) that they will be in danger of receiving injury; (c) that they will be in danger of doing injury. 5 At least a small selection of the best reference books should be accessible to the public. These have come to be known as the reference department, and are in general usage, par excellence, reference books. 6 That more and better reference books are needed, and that libra- rians have responsibilities in their making. This is recognized in the special committee of the A. L. A. on cooper- ation (see chapter by Fletcher on Indexes). The systematic effort of the association has hitherto been chiefly directed to cooperation of many members in single works (Poole's Index, A. L. A. indexes). This field is by no means filled, and one of the most practical objects for early future work is an index to biography (see Ford, L. j. 17 : 85-86) on a method combining that of Poole's Index with that of Phillips' Diction- ary of Biographical Eeference. An even larger field is to be found in cooperation by division of labor by which each librarian takes some larger or smaller specialty, according to his tools and energy, and makes this his lifelong care. This has been recognized in our A. L. A. system of annual reporters and particularly in this subdivided handbook. To carry it out each cooperator should consider his subject, or some sub- division of it, a perpetual specialty, shoiild produce a monograph and keep it up to date, printing as opportunity occurs. As Mr. Cutter is a specialist on rules for cataloging and various other things, Miss Sar- gent on books for the young, others should take other subjects and be perpetually responsible for them. ED 93 62 978 POINTS STILL, UNSETTLED. 1 Shall the loan of reference books be absolutely forbidden? Some librarians are forbidden by terms of gift and others by their own law to lend any book or any reference book out of the building. The majority, however, who are free from the bondage of the law, though under the law of righteousness make exceptions to the rule, which fulflll its spirit; e. g., in a library which closes at dark reference books may be lent one night, or less used reference books may be lent on condition of immediate return if wanted by someone else. In some libraries periodicals are regarded as reference books, and are not lent at all, or lent for one, two, or three days. The sensible principle seems to be that, just as frequently used books which are to be read through are restricted in time to the shortest time (say seven days) in which they . can be conveniently read, so reference books should be restricted to seven, three, one, or a fraction, and lengthened for special circumstances. On loan of reference books, see Madau, Bodleian lending, Oxf., 1S88; L.j. G: 226 (1881), 2 What are the exact limits of restricted books of reference? Valuable books and immoral books are evidently not strictly •' refer- ence books," and the term " kept books," sometimes applied to one or both of tliese, might be a better general term for restricted books, valu- able books, " Facetiae," etc. Books like periodicals, restricted to one to three days, are more nearly reference books, but are not "for reference only," nor yet kept books; therefore the term "restricted books" might be used for all books lent for less than regular time or on special conditions of deposit, guarantee, etc. Temporary reference books, or books temporarily withdrawn from cir- culation for some siiecial reason (e. g., college, school, and literary soci- eties' essays and debates), are strictly reference books, but are sometimes called " reserved books." In libraries with large, accessible reference departments, text-books, histories, etc., are included, which are not strictly or generally in other libraries regarded as reference books, and on the other hand some libraries circulate little-called-for books which (e. g.. Savage's Dictionary of Genealogy, Burke's Peerage) in others are much in demand and regarded as strictly reference books. 3 Whether books generally considered immoral in tendency should be [a) circulated freely, (b) restricted to special ajiplication, (c) excluded entirely. The chief discussion under this relates to works which have an estab- lished place in literary history, and on this issue there is substantial agreement that there is at least a minimum number which should be restricted, but not excluded. Similarly on the question of erotic liter- ature, librarians agree in restriction, with a strong vote for substantial exclusion. (See chapter on Fiction by Miss Coe.) THE world's library CONGRESS. 979 4 How far books sliall be accessible to tlie public (Question of ref- erence department — access to shelves). The question is quite apart from one of circulating or not circulating. The largest "reference libraries" (e. g., the British Museum) have "Eoference departments," or books placed ab the free disjiosition of readers — a "wheel within a wheel. Again, the books exposed (e. g., once more, the British Museum) are seldom confined to technical reference books. They are rather a "miniature of the whole library," the cream (from the worker's standpoint) of the whole collection, having repre- sentatives from every class. These are reference books in the most general usage of the present day. The general question of the refer- ence department is therefore a much broader one than that of the tech- nical, unquestioned reference books which it may contain, and involves the whole problem of access to the shelves. The reference department, as now constituted, is a compromise between ihe ideal demand of readers for access to all the books and the recent total denial of the right of access, which, beginning in a laudable spirit of exact organization, grew into a spirit of red tape. The demand for a more general access to the shelves is being more and more recognized as a just one. The practical advantage to the student {L. j. 2: 62; 12: 184; 13: 180; 15: 20-21) or even the general reader {L.j. 16 : 033-37) of access to and handling his books is generally acknowledged, though some librarians maintain the rather futile con- tention that readers are better and more quickly served by catalog and attendant than by aimless ( ?) wandering among the books. The fact of advantage settled, it is with the modern librarian merely a question of "none, or some, or all." The "none" is now eliminated by universal consent, and the "all" must be also dropped by libraries which have valuable books, lea^ang only the question of how many and how- degree and method — questions of casuistry. The range of this question extends from- a small collection of refer- ence books to all but a few extra valuable or "inexpedient" books, and every phase has its counterpart in actual usage. Some libraries give access to none, others to all but valuables. Some give access to sub- s.tantially all but fiction, others to none but fiction, and still make various degrees between (e. g.. Patents and Fine arts). The diflculties in free access to shelves are: 1 Danger of loss or mutilation of books. 2 Danger of confusion through misplacement of books. Something of both must be counted on, and this constitutes a diffi- culty great enough to make access of everybody to everything impos- sible in the largest libraries, though practicable in many small ones. This impracticability of a very desirable thing has led to compromises and substitutes, the most universal of which is the reference depart- ment having as large a selection as can be managed of the best working books or even the best books for reading (a "library of best books," 980, EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. see Lamed, L. j. 14: 127), and having besides this fixed collection vari- ous features of a more or les9 changing character, such as collections of books on special topics placed in reference department when these subjects are specially inquired after, the " Seminary library^" where special classes of books are gathered for special classes of students, and now quite commonly, the "Latest accessions," which, placed where they can be looked over, satisfy the most clamorous demand of the general reader. Another compromise or substitute is admitting certain classes of users who will receive the greatest probable advantage and do the least probable harm. Sometimes this is done only when the reader is accompanied by a library attendant, but often it is allowed with simple shelf-permit. This is a common practice in college libraries, where professors often have free access and can grant permits to students. The result of endless discussion on the whole subject is that there is an increased number of libraries giving access to most or some classes, a great increase in select reference departments and increase of facili- ties for alcove use, aud a genuine disposition to grant the broadest practicable access. Following are the more interesting references bearing on the question : General. L. j. * 8: 241 (Foster); 13: 35 (Cornell); » 15: 100; *103, 133-34; * 15 : 197-98, 229-31, 296 (Symposium on access) ; * 16 : 268-69 (Higginson) ; *16: 297-300 (N. Y. Lib. Club); 16: C62. Discussions. L. j. 2:275-78 (London); 12: 44; » 13: 309 (CatsMUs); 16:108 (San Francisco); 17: 69-70 (Laltewood) ; 18: 124 (Minn. L. A.). Special classes. 18: 189 (English); 5: 180 (students); 14: 127-28 (class-room); 115 : 142^3 (seminary) ; 17 : 86 (college) ; **18: 116 (college). Individual libraries. L. j. 12 : 229-30 (Buffalo) ; 15 : 137 ; 16 : 34 ; 17 : 445 (Cleve- land); 16: 175; 18: 160 (Minneapolis); 15: 20-1 (N. Y. Astor); 12: 897 (Pawtucket); 14: 484 (Phil, mercantile); 3: 71 (San Francisco mercantile); 10: 157 (Odd Fellows, San F.); 4: 353; 7: 141,144 (Worcester). 5:210 (Brown); 17:50-1 (Chicago); 17:59, and iiS; Notes 2:216 (Columbia); ** 18 : 181 (Cornell) ; 12 : 189 (Harvard) ; 2 : 53-7 (Princeton). 12: 519 (Birmingham, Eng.); 6; 52; 12; 522-3 (Cambridge, Eng.); 18: 184 (Hamil- ton, Ont.); 12: 202 (Melbourne, Austral.). Besides the above references, various allusions will be found in the Library journal, direct or implied, in accounts of "Eeference libraries" such as the British Muiseum aud Bodleian, the Astor, Newberry, Wat- kinson, etc. Moreover, the question is a live one, and information is to be expected in current numbers of periodicals, and it is treated in other papers in this volume. 5 Finally librarians are not agreed on methods of administration of reference books. This, however, is one of the cases where there is lack of agreement on account of lack of comparison. The chief points are : How to protect from loss and confusion, how to keep accurately located, and how to preserve statistics. THE world's LIBEARY CONGRESS. 981 A frequent method of numbering reference books is simply to prefix E or Eef. to the regular number. To protect from loss or confusion the fundamental means are frequent examination with shelf list, con- spicuous numbers on outside of books, and the use of dummies. ^ The best discussion of methods for reference is Austin, L. j. 18: 181-83 (1893); see also (method of recording use) L.j. 15: 221 (1890), and (arrangement) L. j. 5: 180 (1880). Bibliography of reference books.— Cutter's Rules (Wash., 1891), p. 128, give a suflcient list of best reference books for cataloging. Of reference books for public use the chief of all lists is the books of refer- ence in the reading room of the British Museum (Lond., ed. 1, 1871, ed. 3, 1889). This does not answer .the same practical purpose as Cutter's, on account of the great number and variety of books included, but in the latest edition the lists, arranged like Dr. Spoffprd's list in the 1876 report under various subjects, make an exceedingly useful andon the whole the best guide to reference books for a large library. Somewhat nearer to average need is the list in Wheatley, How to form a library (1887), pp. 91-129 and 141-173. To supplement these lists for the most practical uses consult the A. L. A. report on aids and guides; Green, 1882; Foster, 1883; Crunden, 1886; Lane, 1887; Lane, 1889; Beer, 1890; also Green's Library aids. Lane's Indexes to best and recent reference lists in the Harvard Uni- versity Bibliographical contributions Nos. 17 and 29, and Oarr's Index to recent lists, L. j. 8: 27-32 (1883). T&ese with Whitney's List of bibliographies in the Boston public library are the best helps for the average library, but the larger libraries will find the bibliographies of bibliographies byPetzholdt and Valine primary. To keep lists up to date see bibliographic departments of the Library journal and the Centralblatt. For select lists Winsor's reference books in English {L. j. 1 : 247-49) Is a model of practical method and just discrimination, now partly but not wholly out of date. Miss Hewins {L. j. 11 : 305-8 passim) indicates reference books for the smallest libraries. Later lists of con- siderable help and varying critical value are found in works of Son- nenschein (Best books), Sargent (Guide book, to books), and Acland. These represent libraries of say 50,000, 15,000, and 2,000 vols. TLey all give hints of prices. The standard lists for a small library at the present day is of course the catalog of the A. L. A. library. On the whole, decidedly the best recent apparatus regarding refer- ence books is found in the latest edition of Chambers's Encyclopedia under "Encyclopedias" where there is a list given of the best ones general and special, and where under the various articles there are bibliographic references. It may be said in general that as the first and most general " refer- ence book " to be chosen for a library is a cyclopedia, so in all the sue- 982 EDTrcATio^r report, 1892-93. ceeding generations of sucli works, that one will always be "best" for library purposes wMcli fulfills the two functions of a reference book farnishimg both a condensed summary of ev-ery subject, and references to the best extended treatises on each. Assistance to Eeadees. By W. E. Foster, Providence (E. I.) PuTolic Librffirhiaa. The experience of libraries generally shows that a comprehensive policy of assistance to readers must take into account the following conditions : 1 Discrimination in shaping the collection. 2 Marshaling the books on the shelves by an efi'ective system 01 classification. 3 Utilizing the different forms of cataloging helps. 4 Planning the library building with si>ecific regard to facilitating assistance. 5 Supplementing all the above by personal assistance. 1 Discrimination in shaping the collection. — Library oflBcers are gen- erally agreed that strength does not lie in mere numbersj that it is as true of books as of soldiers that, for truly effective work, 1,000 care- fully picked are worth 2,000 assembled af random. AH Tbut a rery few (such as the Library of Congress, which receives two copies of every book copyrighted) would omit also the distinctly bad and the distinctly worthless books. So far as concerns current publications all agree as to the desirability of some guide to their selection, wTiich shall be suf- ficiently comprehensive, trustworthy, and regular in its ajipearance, but they are not yet so nearly agreed as to its practicability. That partic- ular variety, however, advocated by Mr. lies '■ perhaps comes nearest to meeting with general acceptance, and is indeed, already tentatively in operation, lists on electricity and other subjects, prepared by compe- tent specialists, having been put into print. There is also general agreement as to the necessity of discarding, from time to time, useless parts of a collection already gathered, but decided disagreement as to the extent of it. The extreme position in the direction of " winnowing " is represented by Mr. Chades Francis Adams.^ Difficulties in the way of maintaining an arbitrarily "fixed number " of volumes are pointed out editorially in the Library Journal (18: 108), the objections to making even the smaller libraries less than complete in such specialties as local town history or local industries are emphasized by Mr. Winsor,^ and the inherent uncertainty attend- ing any forecast of the future needs of a constituency are suggested by ■In his paper, " The evaluation of literature,'' A. 1.. A.Proc, 1892, pp. 18-22. See also his CMcago paper, L. j. (Jl., 1893), 18 : 217-18. Hn22d ann. ropt. Tliomas Crane Public Library, Quincy, Mass., 1894; .ilso in iia address of June 12, 1893, cited below. = "The future of local libraries," Atlantic, June, 1893, 71 : 815-18. THE world's library CONGRESS. 983 Colonel Higginson.i Mr. Adams has himself done much to facilitate a more general agreement with the principle of winnowing which he advocates by linking with it in later discussions^ the principle of differ- entiation in libraries, with which, indeed, it is inseparably connected.^ The following may perhaps be safely accepted as harmonizing different yie#s: Not only must single individuals be taken into account in decid- ing on the serviceableness of a given book or line of publication in any library, but groups of individuals, such as classes, clubs, societies, etc., and, back of that, whole interests in the community, such as the schools,* the press,^ the departments of the municipal government (as, for instance, the city engineer's office),^ and, emphatically, the local industries.' Where a library is the only one existing in the place, its constant aim should be " to fit the community like a glove." If, how- ever, there are several, as in most large cities, a common understanding as to each other's specialties or limitations will go far toward assuring that in some one' of the libraries, at least, each reader or student will find approximately all that he needs on his particular subject. The "unit of constituency " is tiins not so limited a conception as that of a single library, but that of the town or city as a whole. It is possible, moreover, to preserve a general "library equilibrium" by transfers of whole classes of. publications, e. g., pampMets or government publica- tions, from a library less able or willing to care for them to one which is more so.^ Diseajding should be employed emphatically in the case of imblications which are liable to prove misleading or antiquated, and particularly in natural and applied science. It is of the first impor- tance that an artisan in search of the best work for his purpose in elec- tricity, where a treatise goes out of date in ten years, should not find his way blocked up with the publications of two decades ago." Yet iln address before Mass. Library Club, June 12, 1893. See L. j. (Ag., 1893), 18 : 294. ^lu bis address of June 12, 1893, before tbe Mass. Library Club, which ho entitles "The differentiation of libraries, and the proper field of local libraries." 3For other discussion of the aboTO subject see the Nation, March 23, 1892, 56: 210-11 ; L. j. (Ap., 1893), 18 : 118-19 ; also S : S. Green's paper at Chicago conference, 1893, see p. 698, aad discussion by Messrs. Poole, Dewey, Crunden, and others, Chi- cago proceedings, pp. 18-22. ■■Miss C. M. Hewins, L.j. (Jl. 1893), 18: 251-53. ^i'here are few public libraries in large cities where constant and heavy drafts on their resonrces by members of the press are not most willingly responded to. ^Instances of the kind referred to may be found in the annual reports of nearly every large library. ^Testimony such as "the assurance, verbally or by lettei-, that the resources placed at the disposal of those in charge of these industries have proved unexpectedly serviceable, and are sure to be heard from in the shape of better work" (Providence Public Library, 14-th an. rept., 1891,1). 13), is not uncommon in this connection. 8See discussion of this point in ProT. Pub. Library, 13th an. rept., 1890, p. 6. sSee S : S. Green's paper, L. j. ( Jl., 1893), 18 : 220, where C : A. Cutter's suggestion is also quoted. '"In any case, dates, not of imprints but of actual first appearance (copyright, preface, etc.), inserted in the entry, should serve to warn off the reader or student, or the reverse. 984 EDUCATION even these antiquated volumes may not be valueless, always and every- where, if the cooperative isrinciple be kept in view and the " unit of constituency" be expanded beyond the limits of a single municipality. There is, for example, one library' In the country engaged in scientif- ically collecting antiquated textbooks as part of the equipment needed for a serious study of pedagogy. "Library equilibrium" is subserved, not merely by permanent " transfers," but by temporary loans, whether from larger libraries to those of medium size, or from those in turn to the smaller ones, particularly for the accommodation of individual scholars, where the principle of " the library's comity toward litera- ture" requires it. There may even be, as proposed in connection with some of the State library commissions,^ a system of transfers from a central bureau to a number of libraries in succession. The ideal condi- tion, in regard to adequately meeting the needs of a reader — whether the reader be an accomplished scholar of many years' standing, or a beginner in the use of books — will be attained when a system as elastic as the waves of the ocean, which respond absolutely to all the varia- tions and uneveunesses of the bed of the sea, shall supply, in every part of the country, just what is needed and just when it is wanted. 2 Marshaling the boolcs on the shelves iy an effective system of classi- fication. — Libraries substantially a.gree as to the necessity for some sj'stem of classification, for no one who has searched for a given pub- lication in a secondhand book dealer's unarranged mass of books an-d papers, and has afterwards used a library where an obvious and natu- ral order is the means of leading easily to the book wanted, needs to be convinced of the utility of this feature of assistance to readers. As to specific systems of classification, there is the widest disagreement;' yet even here few will question that it is of less consequence which one, than that some one of the different systems be faithfully followed; since it is but a means to an end, and not an end in itself. The sharp- est line of cleavage is perhaps along the question of " close or coarse classification."* The experience of an increasing number of small libraries, however, shows that, even for their purposes, a somewhat closely divided system offers many advantages, provided they are left free to adapt it to their conditions. 3 Utilizing the different forms of cataloging helps. — Whether or not the reader has direct access to the shelves, it is easy to see of how real 'The library of the American Antiquarian Society, Worcester, Mass. =See Mr. Winsor's article, Atlantic, June, 1893, 71: 815-18; also provision of New York State Library for "traveling libraries," X. j. (D. 1892), 17: 487-88. A very far-reaching suggestion also is that of Mr. S : S. Green in regard to the function of a State library commission, in providing reference books and the necessary equip- ment for answering inquiries, in the case of the smaller libraries. [X. j. (N. 1894), 19: 382.] ■'The literature of classification schemes is well-nigh endless. Seep. 861, and also in abstract, X. j. ( Jl. 1893), 18 : 240-42. e offered him, for how shall he know which of them can best servo his purpose? Suppose that he is to inform himself regarding the principles underlying the transmission of electricity from Niagara Falls to the lamps and motors of Eufialo, which of the scores of books presented in the department of electricity will take him, beginner that he is, and lead him to a full comprehension of the subject? Or, imagine him to bo curious respecting the latest achievements of the camera — its seizure of stars beyond the telescopic range, its interpretation of color in black and white with truth of effect, its reproduction of color itself, or its supersedure of the graver — which of the many works on photography at hand will answer his ques- tions in the clearest way? If, in a very different branch of literature, he seeks to know something about the government of the nation, a topic treated by hundreds of writers, to which of them may he with confidence turn? Or, if he desires to acquaint himself with the funda- mentals of political economy, what authorities shall he choose? A response to these inquiries is given in a card catalog of four subsec- tions of the model library shown by the American Library Association as part of the Columbian exhibit of the National Bureau of Educa- tion, to go at the close of the exhibition to the Bureau's headquarters at Washington. There following each card title is a note — in the THE WOELD'S LIBUAEY CONGRESS. 995 department of electricity by F. B. Crocker, professor of electrical engi- neering at the school of mines, Columbia College, ISTew York; in that of photography by the committee on literature of the Camera Club, New York ; in that of American Government by Dr. J. C. Schwab, instructor of political economy, Yale University; and in that of general political economy by E. E. A. Seligman, professor of political economy and finance in the school of political science, Columbia College. The notes printed on slips are distributed at the exhibit in Chicago and are also to be had from the Bureau of Education, Washington. Itis hoped that; in conn«;tioii with the American Library Association a bureau will be established for systematically extending this plan of appraisal to the whole working literature of education. To be as useful as it can a note card should tell : Whether a book is a mere compilation or a transcript of fact and experience by a doer or a worker; the comparative merits of various editions where they exist; for what classes of readers a book is best suited ; its special excellencies or defects, and important eiTors, if any; how it compares with other books in the same field, and if in its field — let us say of taxation, or money — there is no book up to date, reference may be made to sources of information in periodicals or else- where; if a book treats a subject in debate, as homeopathy, protection, or socialism, fact and opinion will be carefully distinguished, and views of critics of opposed schools may be given; and, finally, the best extendetl reviews will be mentioned. The annotator should append his name and place with date. To this signing I find no objection raised by the reviewers whom I have thus far engaged. It has been estimated that books of importance in ordinary demand do not exceed 10,©00. It is suggested that these works, divided into departments, be selected and annotated for public libraries by the men and women most fit for the task. Every day these men and women are asked for direction in the fields of literature they have made their own. Through the public libraries their judgments can be placed at the serv- ice not only of an individual here and there, but at that of every inquirer in America. Cruidance here will chiefly come from teachers whose life work: it is imthe study, the class room, or the laboratory, to know the latest books in a specific domain and master the best, whether old or new. To these teachers can be joined scholars and critics of dis- tinction specially versed in history, belles-lettres, the literature of art. So far as an appeal has been made to teachers and others on behalf of this new aid to readers, the most cordial response has been given; busy men have turned aside from pressing tasks to write the notes offered in the model library. Their generous assistance has arisen in seeing that the need for the help contemplated is urgent and growing. Alliances between the public school and the public library are becom- ing closer. These alliances, together with Chautauqua and similar agencies, prove that popular reading can rise to a new interest and value when it has conse^utiveness and purpose. At the same time new 9^6 EDUCATION EEPOET, 1892-93. books abound and superabound. Clearly it is more than ever desir- able that trustworthy pilots be organized to spare the people tlie time and effort they now waste in reading books other than the best, to warn them as to defective statements and loose arguments, to invite them into paths of study which without a guide they would never dare to enter. The notes, of course, will often name books not possessed by a library, in which case not only will a reader be told about a book he needs, but the librarian will receive a hint for buying which will be of inestimable value when the system has matured suificiently to keep pace with the latest issues of the press. As public libraries multiply and strengthen we may expect the notes to bring to birth a class of valu- able books, translations of sterling foreign works and books by Ameri- can authors, which today could not afford the advertising broadside required to hit here and there the scholars who want them. In the Atlantic Monthly for June, 1893, Mr. Justin Winsor says that the Soci6t6 Franklin, of Paris, which acts as a central agency for the libraries of France, has found that with the sale its circle of libraries assures, a trained writer and a responsible publisher can be engaged to supply any needed book. As to the financial side of the plan for book notes. The cost of annotating 10,000 important books, including sending note cards to, say, 600 libraries, is estimated at $100,000, and the time necessary for the task at one year. To continue the work on new books of the same relative importance, as they appear, would probably require $10,000 a year. Can this amount be collected from the libraries served? It is doubtful. As elsewhere in the field of education, a service worth vastly more than its cost can not be paid for by the men and women to whom it is rendered. An opportunity thus offers itself for an endowment which at no greater outlay than that needed to establish and maiatain a single good library can double the usefulness of 500. It is said, with truth, that in many towns and cities there is but slight demand for the guidance proposed in this scheme of book notes; but is it disputed that that demand ought to be increased, and how can it be increased better than by supply? To take a homely illustration, has not the advent of the Italian fruit vender, passive though he is, greatly stimulated the consumption of bananas and oranges'? Let the trustees of literature learn of him, and rest content only when the treasures in their keeping are hospitably proffered to the people, the invitation made as telling as it can be by having the best critics join in it. If the ignorant choose to remain untaught, to miss the light and lift that books stand ready to bestow, let them do so only when every means of winning their interest has been exhausted. In this matter the recent history of our public libraries is full of promise. Every increase in their stock and store, every improvement in their arrange- ment and accessibility, has roused appreciation in a degree which has richly repaid the means and toil expended. Let public libraries not THE world's library CONGRESS. 9'97 only contain buh indicate the most helpful books and we shall find the public library more than ever the people's university. It con- stantly befalls that a great book reaches us too late to bring its best message; the regret, "why was not this book pressed upon our atten- tion long ago?" should lead us to do what we can to spare others the labor of mining any vein but gold. Up to this point we have had in mind only the serious reader; it is time that we remembered the reader who simply seeks recreation. Scott maintains his primacy as a novelist, yet it is worth while to learn in what particulars modern research, historical and antiquarian, must affect our estimate of Ivanhoe, the Talisman, and Quentin Durward. In the life of Darwin by his son we are told that the naturalist was wont to refresh himself with the novels of Mrs. Oliphant, but who shall tell us which of her many romances are best worth reading? Browning, too, is abundantly represented on library shelves, but which of his longer poems best deserve perusal and why? His works come to us as 17 lusty tomes, while few students care for a single book of selections, even though it be the poet's own. When the literature of instruction has been surveyed by the annotator and its guide posts set up, it will be fitting that other literature receive the same attention, of necessity with a lighter and less laborious touch. On the general lines here suggested a pioneering attack has been undertaken by Mrs. Augusta H. Leypoldt, editor Literary News, New York, and the present writer. Their- project is to compile and edit an annotated list of about two thousand books suitable for girls and women and their clubs. This list will comprise carefully chosen titles in the whole round of instruction and recreation. The works of fiction will be selected and annotated by a reviewer for the Nation. Other contributors of mark have agreed to cooperate in preparing the list which, as far as it goes, will be of service to all public libraries, to readers and inquirers everywhere. The list will be published by the American Library Association in October, 1895. It Is expected soon to enlarge its departments of art and music so as to fairly give them com- plete scope. Let us now return to the reader in science and consider one of his perplexities, born with the present generation. Day by day he finds periodicals multiplying to so prodigious an extent that the fuel of information threatens to put out the fire; on every hand he sees the serial steadily encroaching on the sphere of the book. For this there are many reasons, the weekly or monthly can tell a fresher story than the book, it can tell a story too short for a book; advertising which falls on the book as a crushing tax provides the periodical's main sup- port; through the wider sale of periodicals they give buyers more for their money than books possibly can; many a book on technical science is but a reprint or a summary of what has appeared in serial form, a 998 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93, circumstance, by the way, of no little advantage to the book. And where in the swirl that now encircles the press shall the reader find what he seeks? If he is ijursning the causes which have cheapened steel, he must consult not only the joiu'nals -devoted to mining and to steel manufacture, he will also have much to learn from the engineering and a;rchitectural press. And so aggressive is the enterprise of the magazines that the latest word regarding the domination of the air by the inventor, may come in the Century, and a review of the cotton-oil industry in the Engineering Magazine. Here it is plain that to be of value an index must be very full. An attempt to meet the emergencies of the case has been made by the Engineering Magazine at Chicago, the Review of Reviews of New York, and other publications, each presenting a list of ai'ticles in selected periodicals; none of these lists is fall enough, yet the labor of consulting them, particularly as a year approaches its end, is what few readers have time for. The linotype, which enables a title to be cast as a solid line of metal, promises to lend itself to the quarterly and annual recapitulations here demanded. The world of science, as never before, is to-day roused to the necessity of taking stock of its wealth. In the Transactions of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, vol. 14 (1893), Mr. W. L. Chase presents a plan for extending the Dewey' classification to engineering literature. The Royal Society of Great Britain announces an author index of its monumental list of technical papers. Mr. H. Beckhold, of rrankfort-ouTthe-Main, began the issue, beginuing with 1894, of a monthly and yearly index to papers in pure and applied chemistry; the Physical Society of London in 1895 began to ijublish a monthly pamphlet giving abstracts of all the papers which appear in the principal foreign journals of physics. And a concerted movement is afoot which aims, by 1900, at organizing on an interna- tional basis, a comprehensive index to all scientific literature. This done, experiment in every workshop and laboratory of the world can be supplemented by full information of every recorded result achieved in all other workshops and laboratories. Then the man of research can avoid the blunders of his fellows, need not uselessly duplicate their labors, and can seek their cooperation in ambitious tasks beyond his individual reach. Were books and periodicals disposed and indicated as they ought to be, we should still be far from having exhausted literature. There remains a flood of publications, many of which contain valuable data for the investigator, fruitful seed thoughts for the student and literary worker. I refer to the transactions of learned societies, the proceedings of insti- tutes and academies, of such government offices as issue reports, labor bureaus, geological surveys, and the like. So oppressive is the multipli- cation of these that the president of the British Chemical Society, in 1894, urged the consolidation of authoritative scientific organs throughout THE world's LIBEAEY CONGRESS. 999 tlie English-Bpeakinf world. This however, would be only in part a Temedy. Suppose that the rate at which the cousumption of liquor advances or recedes is to be ascertained, the information is set forth authoritatively in reports of the Secretary of the Treasury, where inci- dentally we are told how far the use of strong waters has been affected "by the competition of beer and light wines. One would scarcely look in the Proceedings of the American Institute of Mining Engineers for light on the labor problem, yet the volume for 1890 contains a masterly discussion of it by Hon.Abram S. Hewitt^ in the course of his treat- ment of ''Iron and labor." Two examples, these, of hundreds which might be cited. In such documents as have been named we tap the stream of knowledge at its very source, and yet for lack of indexing how little is done with a wealth of material it costs so great pains to create ! Mr. Talcott WiUiams, of the Philadelphia Press, who has given the question a good deal of thought, estimates the expense of index- ing this important branch of literature at $50,000. His suggestion is that the work be attacked cooperatively, and that publication of the manuscript indexes be sought at the hands of the Smithsonian or other public-spirited institution. To the Smithsonian a debt beyond estimate is already due for its issue of bibliographies, the last and greatest of which is Dr. H. Carrington Bolton's bibliography of chem- istry. Mr. Williams believes that a considerable number of learned societies could provide the money needed to index their transactions ; for the rest he proposes an appeal to unpaid volunteers such as those who, under the leadership of Dr. W. P. Poole and Mr. W. I. Fletcher, have in times past done so much to bring the bread of knowledge within reach of the people. Were all this accomplished, together with the indexing of current periodicals and the annotation of books, I know not what the reader could wish for in the way of stock-taking in literature; everything of importance in print would be placed at his service. If the librarian's finances forbade his having other than a small library, he would never- theless be able to tell a reader where to get what he wanted, and per- haps through the cooperation of largea: Hbraries be al»le to procure it for him. Speed the dayvhen between tlie seekers and thelight there shall be no obstacle of any kind, the day wTien the generous, the wise, and the informed shall ^ive their less favored fellows all the aid they can ! SCKAPBOOTTS. By TV. A. Bakdweix, Liturarian of the Brooklyn Library, Brooklyn, N. Y. Among the minor departments of library work that have, in some insti- tutions, come to be recognized as useful and valuable is " scrapping," or the collecting odds and ends of information not contained in books 1000 EDUCATION or the cyclopedias, but clipped from newspapers or from magazines not covered by Poole's or the cooperative indexes. In this way may be preserved for convenient reference the most recent facts, which other- wise would be buried and lost in the mass of back files, Thomas S.Townsend's "War library of national, State, and biograph- ical recoi'ds," the largest collection of scrapbooks in existence, is still deposited at the Columbia College library, New York. This work is in more than 100 volumes, each as large as a man can easily lift. The work is well indexed and is an invaluable fund of material relating to the civil war. The arrangement is chronologic from December, 1860, to the end of General Grant's second administration. The jjiice at which this collection is held is $50,000, though Mr. Townsend would have sold it to the United States at a somewhat lower figure. He has also suggested a scheme to dispose of it by means of popular subscrip- tions, each subscriber having the right to vote where the work shall be deposited. The Los Angeles public library has recently formed a plan for collect- ing information regarding local interests, which is thus described in their library bulletin : CLIPPING BUREAU. The realization of the utter lack of practical hooks on the local manufacturing, agricultural, and industrial interests and the impossibility to procure such informa- tion has resulted in the project of a clipping bureau, and a systematic segregation of reliable matter bearing on these subjects is to be begun at once. A practical scheme has been worked out to handle and prepare this material. The chamber of commerce has agreed to cooperate to the extent of furnishing material on hand, and we earnestly invite the further cooperation on the part of fruit growers, bee keepers, fruit packing and drying specialists, and others who have from time to time made scrap collections. We invite them to come to the library to have our system explained to them. LIBRARY SCRAPPING. In order to preserve the great amount of floating material on topics of local value constantly appearing in newspapers and periodicals, it is proposed to detail special attendants to the collection, segregation, and arrangement of this matter. The clippings in the first place will be kept in a series of indexed envelopes, and when enough material has accumulated on any one subject it will be carefully examined, and only that of some real value will be retained. For final preservation the clip- pings are to be pasted in scrapbooks designed for this purpose. The binder was instructed to furnish a quantity of ordinary manila paper, cut 11 by 17 inches, and folded into sections of 10 leaves each, and punched on the fold. These leaves will hold the clippings, and the sections may be strung together like the sections of a book. No one section is ever to hold clippings on more than one subject; thus there may be a series of sections on the orange, and when these are sufficient in number they will be bound, forming a complete volume of statistics on orange culture. The subjects for clipping purposes will be assigned, and it is anticipated that by this expedient many of the drawbacks of the ordinary scrapbook will be done away with. Suggestions for modifications will be considered and results noted. THE WOELD's library CONGRESS. " 1001 Since tlie report on scrapbooks in 1889 a considerable number of libraries have done some work in clippings. A circular recently addressed to more than 100 representative libraries throughout the country has elicited responses from about half that number of librarians who cultivate the general art of scrapping to some extent, while others who have not yet found time for it are favorably impressed with the idea, and confident of its utility. The information supplied in response to the circular is epitomized below : 1002 EDUCATION KEPORT, ie93'^93. as os m ©IS f-(43i3 red O M 5 ^"H "I g«l i. Pa's It "13 |2i ■3 ai aS R 2 '^ "32 6 p« S " rt « « m § MS aS -^Sm §•5 .f^ ^ t. Pits a ei fi u o o !2i 2 Bo f! V tn O > (D d CJ a sj age O H c o a " « ^- a'"'s '^ S' = 'S«2 .1 a e,--a « p 9 5 . bs, 5 g 9 ' -^^ .2 S39 o a =3 ol. h 13" ■a.^ 3 S » a 3 o a ■S - „ a CD (u a ^ o t- s u a ; u a „ 3'a&''3J ^4 ° aS 1.2 aS PM Ph , C cit> © d o =3 ■3 pj>^ £-t5 O ft 'a' < ^8s <1 ©■ « 9 1^ I ■is * to o o *■■§ g Pi 3 O D* |2i °!= So :!'§ m5 g 3^^ P K4=t -5 o o ui .p a & ^> 3 Ml -=.2 3 p5 a o, t^ !* ■ h p « J I S o-ag.SP IP ^ as 13 td ££■§ £^-p fl o «5 •^ 2 « a a fe « a 5 p P c3 o^.n S (Dp OS to ® i ^ M '3 3 o ® •^ W oa ft -3 O _M -"-l & t) gi3 g "■sp" s " § i " 03 S S! oi rt « (n j5 i:m w p o M ; a B'd m M &>^ P a ■ S = s O -I ci o o as ■3 1 '* £o^ s-si o p So en s ■g^saa as l^'-*' Si Q CD ''Q [>s— O tS -, ?^ S^'^ St3 -S ? a d ^ ® of fl. -So® r^ ai ^-s ^\ to o oa j: ".2,3 u CM .B E^ ™,.B o F ■a .S S ^bTBlM >sg„- -rS ffl O O ™ og o ^1 § is S3 ; ^ .si Si>. fr I .is . H hq PM ei ■grs - ^ T^ P g=^ OHJ g « S t>- « 3".= .S B^« o o o 1004^ EDUCATION KEPORT, 1892-93. ID S.Si O ■d 3 ffi,0 »;3 a is*-', H " 2- ,4 H 3° si ■a 3 £ - «J ■§gg is 2 S ^' '■id (D^ t- a £■§,.- '§■«>-« S «l§ ■3 a !.9 S IgT-fg-ggj CQ « 9 ft 03 I fl 9 O 5.5 s 3 i"^ o a all 03 s.a ? CQ g £ O Scfl a'a-S Is* ?< '' fl ■I « al! S P " S ° 9r S ^S p• O a ,Q 01 Ota ft d h m Q Is 3 i MM III M B Pi ■a o IE- Hi 3 THE WORLD'S LIBRARY CONGRESS. 1005 Is § ■« b S s? a •|M ism P „ n u S H P ■H ° b « " ,3 p ca ri o ■SJ S ©■ s as a 95taa C r: 0) & 'aSSS si's! o afc-- ■SA a ■So" g 9 a o ca a a a « H a a tj 5-- a a P. g a p o n ^ il> «^ H p. s lU 93 Fh (4 .5 aX' ^zi <( ^, o wo ? 09 J! -«l P a KM ;;-■■= g O S3 o cy3 a u en E-ag a o a f" a g'g M a t> ® S 2 -S 2SSS ■S ° 2 a Ph a *- o . aH^»"g TIJ P- ^ '^ .© a g! <1 Hi S I t3 § i a s ^ 3 S o a a 1 II ^ «l a ►si m £ OS Ji . o a a s*^ ^ 3 ©-3 ' s p.a 1- a p.^ eti ® P © O Sfe a " a" p © -> f?S S'i^'S a S-3 g-'-S'a'g & rsaagaa-*^oaah.2 2a SoPtPo-nvSaPta-fsan a^^ « -2 &■§ •nsa .. H 5 0} s ee P (B ^•^ 2* O O (a b © o ■S3 ■*3 t^ ^ "©OS S'Sa M a P<3 a » g mil as Is !!^ ■Si .ShI w bJOcs Is " p J a " « 5«2 pP © a EC H a ■2^5 i " Hi H ^ b. cd jl] ri oiS o Si » aifa"*^ 3 £<.a 2 ° a g-ap.§.S£ a &fla]j a- N H ,rt 'S CO ^ r-^ 5 S o g wig 2 k. git's O -R ■£ '•^ '^ d o c'© '^ d w o (- raS-^/^j ■3^ = s3> ' B -i*. t, S B o! a s cs o . ,fl « ajHH g sa a " o t^s" S » ^ S ;»-.^ o.S 1 ■^2 = o s S ^ g fi^ g s o 9] « (9 2^ ^ ■ " " M c*; ts .23 !» WW n o c3 ■ " h © o ■3 _ s" » m% w© o o 2 >^ " ^, -PK H gSfS 15 o P gi;'§§5 ;s ^ M K If |1 ■3-S . o Sp SS o O 10 £0 .2t> & -ipi -I B « W ? ^ O rt .- oi ■^a .... "a) S ^ g i? si' B w P3 +J SB Is L' JO .2 So ■EH H t." o,.9.-Sj3 " S .2 » o 5 ." S Pa 2 a . p. s afo ■So p b. ^ .5 oj ft 12; b ^ t^ Sp - .^' M k! .« £ Si =3 y i> £ E' o g s| b| «'"' '3'-' CO OS (^5 - s ft 2 «!-! 5a figfi^g •oo a S THE world's library CONGJJESS. 1007 & some may liable the 1 > -■-gS 5 ^S^^t- 1- -1 O P fe t> 4k^J 11 P 1^- t Z -p8S:§ .-a p, _ oa -&^i>=isa.= g h otk the mal the §11-0° sail's 1 !2i ^ io"o rt 2,13 P4>%F3,a a,-H d- 1008 EDUCATION REPORT, 1892-93. In the fall of 1892 the Society ot Old Brooklyuites deposited in the Brooklyn library a very interesting collection of very elegant pictorial scrapbooks, carefully mounted, in six elephant folio volumes. It con- sists of several thousand pictures and engravings, Including many portraits of distinguished personages. The pictures were collected and mounted by Dr. Nellie M. Flint, a granddaughter of Capt. David Morris, of the prison ship Jersey. Our own collection of biographic clippings have proved very valuable in supplementing biographic dictionaries. Local clippings on Brooklyn, Long Island, and New "York contain much not to be found elsewhere; and the collection of fugitive poems, quotations, etc., has many things not found In books. Our clippings are thrown into square boxes till there is time to sort and paste them. Some libraries keep their clip- pings arranged permanently in such boxes. Probably the best method of preserving for ready reference is to paste the clippings on pieces of manila paper, or on sheets folded once, of uniform size. These sheets can be laid on each other and kept in boxes, and further additions incorporated as received, the contents of each box being indicated on its back. The advantage of pasting on sheets folded in the middle is that they can at any time be readily bound and shelved with books in the class to which they belong. This relieves the scrap collection of some of its bulk, and, as has been suggested, admits weeding out some sheets containing obsolete matter. The sheets in each case or box should be numbered from 1 up, with rubber stamp, later additions being marked la, 2a, etc., so that the wayfaring man need have no difficulty in keep- ing the sheets arranged. Should the wayfaring man, however, as Is quite likely, mix the contents of a box, an assistant can occasionally set things straight. OPINIONS, ETC. The following views are expressed by some librarians who have as yet no scrap collections : Amherst College. — Sorry to say we have as yet done nothing in this line. I believe in it though, heartily. (W. I. Fletcher.) Drexel Institute, Philadelphia, Pa. — We do not keep scraphooks in this library; would like to do so if we had time. C Alice B. Kroeger.) Harris Institute lihrary, Woonsooket, M. I — It seems to me very useful and very desir- able in this library. But with only two persons to do all the work, when there is a circulation sometimes of 4,000 a month, it is impossible to find the time. (Anna Metcalf.) Jaclcaon (Mich.) puMio lihrary. — We do not keep a scrap collection, though I have often felt the desirability of one. (Celia F. Waldo.) Osterhout free lihrary, Willcesbarre, Pa. — Scrapbooks are among the things I long to have, but have not. I find the need of them very often, but I have no time even to read a big paper, much less cut up and sort out the slips. If I ever do have scrap- books I think I should arrange in classified envelops, dating the slips. Should pre- serve slips on all importaQt subjects. Current legislation is constantly inquired for THE WOELD's library CONGRESS. 1009 and as we have no newspaper reading room, we are sadly deficient in information. When tlie days are twice as long as now I shall keep a scrap collection. (Hannah P. James.) Peoria (III.) publie library.— I should think they would be valuable, and I only await information such as you are collecting to make a beginning on some approved plan. (E. S. Willcox.) Philadelphia mercantile library. — I can see great advantages in the plan if they are kept in such a way as to be quickly and surely available. Our staff is not large enough for doing this work. (John Edmands.) St. Paul (Minn.) public library. — I believe in it and hope to do considerable as soon as time will admit. The attendant in charge of our bureau of information has some newspaper clippings, but we have no scrapbook for public use. (Helen J. McCaine.) Watkinson library, Hartford, Conn. — This library does not collect scraps, as we are very short handed. I thoroughly believe iu it and would go into it to-morrow if I could. I am inclined to think that the best way of preserving scraps would be in envelops, classified and indexed on each ; though not handy when full, or when there are many scraps on a subject, the great advantage of siftiug out those which have fully passed their usefulness will overbalance the unhandiness. With the various handbooks and yearbooks gathering up constantly the results, there is nothing drearier than an old scrapbook — the living fastened to the dead. The future city library must certainly scrap, and every village library should clip all local matter. Local history is best preserved iu books, and I find the Mark Twain book very useful, (Frank B. Gay.) Opinion is generally favorable regarding the litility of scrap collect- ing. Where it is followed judiciously it supplies a fund of information not elsewhere available. One of the devices for preserving clippings is the " Index scrap file,"' manufactured by Eev. H: Crocker, Fairfax, Vt. This consists of a. piece of light manila cardboard, 9^ by 10 inches, folded twice, one ot the folds being clipped into strips half an inch wide, to which the clip- pings are to be attached by paste with number of the scrap at margin. When these strips are folded in, the other side is folded over on them, leaving a space on the back of the file for lettering contents. This is a rather ingenious contrivance, and would do very well if handled only by the librarian; if used by the public the narrow strips, to which the clippings are pasted, would be very soon torn off. The plan of keeping clippings in envelops, lettered and alphabeted by subjects, is a favorite one, and answers very well when there are but few scraps on a subject, but these soon become bulky and crammed if there is rapid growth in a subject, as in "Biography." In nearly all cases scrapping is done by some of the regular stafff but sometimes assistance is volunteered by people not connected with the library but interested in its welfare and who, having time to spare^ are willing to devote some of it to this work. As the time required for scrapbook making is more expensive than the material used, it seems that much might be done by volunteer aid. In nearly every place where there is a public library there are people who could spare time at intervals to do something, under the direction of the librarian, towards developing a scrap collection. The work of ED 93 64 1010 EDUCATION EEPOET, 1892-93. inspecting pajjers, marking and. clipping, sifting and classifying, pasting and indexing could thus be carried on without drawing very much on the time of the librarian or his assistants, and the volunteers could hardly fail to become more deeply interested in the institution to which they were giving their aid. In the Middlesex Mechanics' Institute at Lowell and at the Lynn public library some outside help is utilized. At Wellesley, Mass., the work was at one time carried on by the college departments. Indexes amd Indexing. By W. I. Fletcher, Ijibrarian of Amherst College. Three kinds of guides to literature are found necessary in a library — catalogs, bibliographies, and indexes. These are not so distinct but that they overlap and are la,rgely commingled, but they may be prop- erly defined so as to show the due limitations of each. A catalog deals with books as separate entries and give^ a list of them arranged systematically, usually by authors and titles, sometimes by subjects. A bibliography, properly speaking, is an account of the literature of one definite subject, or in one limited class, the term being most strictly appropriate when applied to a list of the works of a certain author, cal- culated to exhibit and describe all the editions. The term "national bibliography" is loosely applied, sometimes to a catalog of the books referring to a certain country, more commonly of late to a catalog of all the publications issued in the country. A subject bibliograi^hy is an exhibit of all publications on a certain subject, so far as it can be made, generally including i^amphlets and articles in periodicals and transactions, its chief value usually lying in the fact that it brings to light stores of otherwise hidden material not exhibited in an ordinary subject catalog. Sometimes a bibliography includes ms. material — as for example the recently issued Bibliography of the Algonquian Languages, by J. 0. Pilling — which refers to many vocabularies, etc., which exist only in tliie author's original manuscripts. An index is an arrangement (generally alphabetic, but sometimes classified) of the analyzed contents of one iJook, or of the books in a certain class, and is intended to show in what books and at what places in those books information is to be found on a certain subject. As libraries are used more for reference and study, the need of indexes to literature is more and more felt and Supplied. In many library catalogs analytic entries have been so numerously made ' as to constitute them indexes as well as catalogs. This is notably true of the well-known Brooklyn Peabody Institute and Cleveland catalogs, and of some others. The finest example in existence of this combination of catalog and index is, however, the index catalog of the library of the Surgeon- General's Office in Washington, of which 13 large volumes have been THE WOKI^d's LliBEAKY CONGEESS. 1011 issued, bringing tlie alphabet down to " Snt,^' and contaimng refer- ences to 71,900 volumes, 127,000 pamphlets, and 424,000 articles in journals, etc. But as libraries have inoreasingly done this indexing of books in their catalogs it has become apparent that it is work -^ hich might bet- ter be done through Tcguiar printed indexes available to other libraries as well as to the one vhere the iudexing is done. When Dr. Poole, while yet a student in Yale College, prepared for use in the library of the literary society of Brothers in Unity, a ms. index to periodicals, he soon saw that it would be equally useful else- where. This led to its publication aud to its becoming the germ of the great Poole's Index of to-day, elsewhere spoken of as on© of the most indispensable of library hel^js, Tlie publication of Poole's Index .and its supplements represent the transfer of the whole field of periodical articles from the cataloging process to that of indexing — i. e., to the printed book useful alike in all libraries. It has long been evident that another large class of works would be better treated in the same way, namely, collections of essays, papers, and monographs, and the A. L. A. Index was lately published to meet this