SMITHSONIAN REPORTS. NOTICES PUBLIC LIBRARIES IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. BY CHARLES C. JEWETT, LIBRARIAN OF THE SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION. PRINTED BY ORDER OF CONGRESS, AS AN APPENDIX TO THE FOURTH-I ANNUAL REPORT OF THE BOARD OF REGENTS OF THE SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION. WASHINGTON, D. Co 1851. t~~: ~~1 ~ f r -t~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ^~~~ 31st CoNmrEs 1s SENATE. ] MISCELLANEOUS, Ist Session. No. 120. APPENDIX THE REPORT OF TIE BOARD OF REGENTS THE SITHTSONIAN INSTITUTION,'ONTAININT A 1RE'PORI T ON'THE PUIBLIC LItERARIES'TAB UNVV TED thTES Kf AERIAI, *JSAIWARY 1, e1s, BY CHARLES C. JEWETT, Librarian of the Smithsonian Institution. WASHINGTON: MRINTED FOR THE "SENATE. I~i60~ APPENDIX, SMrTIISONIAN INSTITUITION, Washingtonl, January 1, 1850. &a: I have the honor to transmit to you, in compliance with the duty qssigned me, the following report upon the public libraries of the United States, prepared in accordance with the plan of rendering the Smithsonian Institution a centre of bibliographical knowledge. I remain, very respectfully) your obedient servant, C. (C. JEWETT, Libirariari of the S mitksonian nlstitution. To JOSEPH HENRU, LL. D., &Secretary of lhe Smitkhsniian Instit.tion. PRELIMINARY REMAARKS. Books constitute a large element of the intellectual w-ealth of a nation. On the shelves of publishers and venders they are an indication of existing demand, and an earnest of usefulness. Nor are they idle even there. The shops of booksellers have, from early times, been the favorite resorts of men of letters. Their contents are, for purposes of reference,,more accessible than those of most libraries. Collections of books for private libraries are also of great public interest. *The proprietor of each derives from it his own means of teaching the public. Not only so; private collections are generally'made for specific purposes, and are-each in some particular branch of knowledgeas complete as the means of the proprietor will allow. The learning, bibliographical skill, and resources of the collector have been limited to some one object, and that he has pursued to its utrmost extent. He has thus formed a complete library in one department. The aggregation of such libraries would constitute a complete universal library. These collections generally become, sooner or later, parts of public collections: such is commonly the wish of tthe scholars who form thlem. Therefore, the community may be allowed to watch-so far as they can without intrusiveness —such private accumnulations, with interest and satisfaction. In this country) moreover, a narrow and exclusive spirit among book collectors is almost unknown. Gathering for use, and with an appreciating spirit, they are not/disposed to debar others from the treasures which they possess. The liberality of proprietors of large collections of books in this country is remarkable, and I believe unparallMled. But our present object is not to describe private collections. The cen*sus board, with an enlightened regard for the interests of letters, have included books, in both public and private libraries exceedinl one thousand volumes, among the objects to be enumerated, Mr. John R. Bartlett, before his appointment to the important post whllich he now holds upon the [ 20] 4 Mexican boundary commission, had made considerable progress in pryo curing from the proprietors of the most valuable. private collections such accounts of their literary treasures as would be of publit importance, and such as they were willing to have:printed. These notes will not be lost, though the publication of them is deferred. Our immediate concern is with public libraries. It is unnecessary to seek for an exact definition of the word jkh/ic in this connexion. I mean by it libraries which are ac'es'sible-either without restriction, or upon cornditions with which all can easily comply-to every person who wishes to use them for their appropriate purposes. In this sense, I believe it-may be said that all libraries in this country, which are not priuvate property, (and indeed imany which are private property,) are public libraries. Of these libraries I have endeavored to collect such historical, statistical, and descriptive notices as would be of general interest; together xwivth such special details as would be. beneficial to those who are engaged in the organization and care of similar establishments. No person who will consider the vast extent of the field to be sitrveyed, the tedious process by which most of the information is to be collected — namely, by circular letters and private correspondence —the difficulty in this busy land of getting any one to furnish minute information on such subjects, the antiquated statistics, on these matters, which survive all other changes, in gazetteers and geographies, and the fact that there is nowhere in this country a full collection of books and pamphlets relating to the local affairs of the several towns and counties of the different Statesno one who will consider these things, and remember that this is but one of the topics of inquiry to which I was required to devote my attention, and that, by the other duties of my office, I was prevented from visiting most of the libraries which I wished to describe, will be surprised if he -should find that, in some instances, these accounts are not so full nor ao accurate as could be desired. The publication of them, in their present state, is considered a step necessary to their completion and perfection. Copies will be distributed to librarians and' others interested in these matters, and all persons who may receive the work are earnestly requested to furnish corrections, additionis, and suggestions for a second edition. It is hoped that within a fewv years materials may be obtained for accurate accounts, embracing all. historical facts of importance with reference to every library and every institutiOn'possessing a library in this country; and including the history and statistics, with a description of the bibliographical and scientific treasures of each. The:present notices relate almost exclusively to libraries.. When the library forms but a department (it may be a comparatively small one) of an institution, it has not been the aim to give anything mo e of the history of such institution than was necessary to illustrate the formation, position or prospects, of the library,. It was at first intended to limit these notices to the answers obtained to the questions of a circular:letter. Mlany of the circulars have, however, *The following is a copy of the circular letter: The following questions have been prepared in order to collect as accurate statistics as posSible of the various public-libraries in the United States: l.' By what name-isthe library legally designated? 2. When was it founded? 3. What nuimbber [120] remained to this time unanswered; others were filled up hastily-, and gave but a meagre account of the collections; others, again, simply referred to some sources from which authentic details might be gathered. I1 order to give anything like completeness or uniformity to the. notices, it was found. necessary to re-write them, and to seek additional information'from all available sources. When the librarian's name is given in connexion w~ith an article, it is an indication that the principal facts were derived from his' answers to the queries. When the facts have been gatiiered from other sources, the authorities have, for the most part, been. named. ~ It is to be regretted that these statistics do not all refer to exactly the. same date. They were intended to represent the condition of the ibbraries at the middle of-the year 1849; but when returns were not made,!and. it was necessary to take the best accounts at hand, these frequently related. t a time severalyears past. Doubtless mnany libraries, more important than some which are mentioned in these notices, have been overlooked. The omission is unintentional. It has been utterly impossible to collect, at once, full and reliable accounts of all thle libraries, small and large, in the coputry. This; publication will make known our wish to gather all facts worthy of record respecting every one of'them; and, in ~conformity with this plan, we would respectfully and earnestly solicit from the guardians of libraries not mentioned here, or of which the accounts are incorrect or in any. way unsatisfactory, to furnish us with the means of improving the work for a second edition. We would idirect'attention particularly to the fol-.owing point s: 1. The number of volumes of printed books as they stand upon the shelves; the number of pamphlets; the number of manuscripts, in the form of works intended for publication, or of letters, &c.; the number of maps and charts; of loose engravings; of sheets of music unbound, and of bound books of music; the number of coins and medals, pictures, busts, &c.., possessed by the institution on the Ist of January, 1851. 2. The expenditure for books, and the number of books purchased, during the year ending December 31, 18t50. 3. The number of books lent out, also, the number used. in the library rooms,.during the same period. 4. Important facts not already given with reference to the history of he -f volumes does it contain? 4. Has it collections of ma.nuscripts, maps and charts, music, engravings, medeals, coins, etc.? If so, please to state the number of articles of each description. re.th enumbers, given in reply to the last two questions, ascertained'by actually dounting the vol2 umes and articles, or are they from a conjectuial estimate? 6.: What has been the yearly average nunmber of'volumes added to the library for the last ten years? 7. What has been the yearly average expenditure for the purchase of books? 8. Is there a permanent fund for the increase of the library? If so, how large is it, and what sum does it yield annually? 9. How many'and what officers are employed? Whait are the names and address of the p'resent officers?:- 10. Has a building been erected expressly for the library? If so, when, of what material, and at what ecxpense? 11. What are the dimnensions, and what is the groun oPlan, of the library wbuilding or rooms? 12. AIre the books arranged on the shelves accordin ubjects, or on some other system? 13. Is there a printed catalogue of the library? If so, when was it printed, and what is tq size, and the number of pages? If more than one, what is the date of each? 141 How often is the library opened, and how long is it kept open each time? 15. Who are entitled to the use of the library, and on what terms? 16.'Arebools lent out to read? if so, how many er taken out annually? 17. What is the yearly average number of persons consulting the'library without taking away books? 18, Have the books been injured at any tiine by insects? 19. Is there any regulation by which books may be lent by courtesyto persons at a distance? If so, what is it? library, and the institution with which the library is connected. In this place we would also beg leave, on behalf of the Smithsonian' Institutionrto solicit for- its library the gift of books, pamphlets, or articles, printed or, written, relative to the history, condition, or prospects of every literary, scientific, and educational establishment in the country; with catalogues (old as well as new) of all libraries; annual and triennial catalogues of colleges and high schools; and documents relating to common schools7 Sunday schools, &c. It is highly important to have upon our shelves the means of tracing the progress of education in this country inl the history of schools, colleges, and libraries, from their foundation to the present time. Such a collection would be peculiarly appropriate in a centrali institution like this. Nothing pertaining to the subject should be thought too insignificant to be sent. Everything will find its place, and7 we may safely say, will one day be useful. 5. It would be interesting to have a description, or at least a list, of all remarkably rare and curious books or manuscripts which the library may possess; and we would ask particularly for an account, as minute as may be convenient, of all manuscripts relating to the early history of this country. - To those who have contributed information for this work I beg leave to present my sincere thanks. - I have heretofore spoken of the articles contained in the'"Serapeumn" for 1846, from the pen of Hermann E. Ludewig, esq., of New York, on the libraries of America, as the fullest and most correct account of them that had been published. His was the work of a pioneer. It wvas faithfully done, and I most cheerfully acknowledge my obligations to him for the assistance which I have derived from his researches.* MAINE. AUGUSTA. State Library-about 9,000 vols.-Founded 1836. The average yearly increase is about 500 volumnes.: From 1840 to 1847, the annual appropriation for the purchase of books was $300; for 1848, $400; for 1849, $400. One of the rooms of the State House (50; feet by 30) is appropriated to the library. It is fitted up with alcoves on two sides-twelve in all. Three catalogues have been printed-the first (60 pages 8vo.) in 1839; the second (105 pages Svo.) in 1843; the third (120 pages 8vo.) in 1846. Another is in preparation. During the sessions of the legislature the library is open from 8 a. m. to 6 p. m. Books may be taken from the library by the governor, members of the council, senate, houseof representatives, heads of departments, judges of the courts, secretary and members of the board of education, and the superintendent of the Insane *XThese'notices were broug p to January, 1850, at which time they were presented to the Regents of the Smithsonian Institution. As the printing has been delayed for a year, I have added to them surch facts as during the interval have come to my knowledge. These additions improve the rioticeh in fullness and accuracy; but they give them a fragmentary character, which could only be avoided by rewriting rsany of them —a task which was not consistent with my.other duties. c. c. J. JANUARY, 1851. Hospital. The privilege to the mermbers of the legislature, board of education and its secretary, is limited to the time they may be in session. No law. books, (excepting those of the State of Maine,) nor books presented by the United States, or any other State, or received through Vattemare's exchange, can be taken from the library except for the use of the two houses, and the comamittees, at the committee-rooms, during their session. Probably 2,500 persons consult the library each year. Ezra B. French, of Damariscotta, Secretary of State and ex officio librariaau, Abner Oakes, of Sangerville, assistant librarian. ]BANGOR. Theological Seminary Libraries-7,500 vols.-The Theological Seminary at Bangor was incorporated in 1814 as the'" Maine Charity School." It was at first connected with HIampden Academy. In 1819 it was removed to Bangor. It is under the direction' of the Congregationalists. The library was founded in.i832, and contains 7,500 volumes, selected with' special reference to the' benefit'of theological students; with a few maps and charts, and a great variety of curiosities, collected chiefly by mis-, sionaries among the'heathen; as ornaments, implements of labor, idol gods, &c., &c. The yearly average increase is about 400 volumes. Annual expenditure for boolks about $500. There is no permanent fund. It is expected that a buil:ding will'soon be erected for the library. The books are arranged on the shelves accordin'g to subjects. No catalogue has been printed. There are two written.catalogues-one alphabeticali the other recording the books as they stand on the shelves. Open twice *a week for taking out books, and'every afternoon for consultation. Sta. dents, officers, trustees, clergymen, and other literary gentlemen in the city.of Bangor, are entitled to the use of the library, for which no charge is made. The post of librarian is usually filled,y a student of the seminary. The Society of Inquiry on Missions, connected with the seminary, is in possession of a valuable cabinet and library.-[See History of the Bangor Theological Seminary, by Rev. E. Pond, D. D., in the American Quartely Register for August, 1841, p. 27.] BRUNSWICK. Bowdoin College Libraries-24,750. vols.-Bowdoin College was established in 1794, but it did not go into operation till eight years later.:'The college library dates from the organization of the institution, in 1802, and contains'at present (1:849) 11,600 volumes. For'the last ten years the average annualiricrease has been about 130 volumes, and the average annual expenditure about $200. There is no permanent fund for the purchase of books, but an annual appropriation of $200 is made from the funds of the college. Since 1846 a granite bqjing has been erected, at anexpense of about $40,000; a part of which t[ be the college chapel, and'a partvcontains the library. The room, how occupied-by the library is 70 -feet long, 30 feet wide, and 18 feet high. There are, besides, two wings, to'be used when required-each 70 feet long, 184feet wide, and 18 feet high. The last printed catalogue was published in 1819, containing 120 pages 8vo.'It is now out of print,: and,- were it to be had, P dI2Qi S ~~S, wyould give a very imperfect idea of the preset Iibrarty.- It is expected that a new catalogue will' son be prepared and published. The library is open three times a week, one hour each time. During these hours the use of the library is allowed to all persons, without fee. Books' are lent out to the students, resident graduates, officers,. trustees, and overseers of the-'college, and to tlie clergymen of Topsham and Bruns~wick. The number of'charges for volumes lent is aboru 3,000 annually. Daniel R. Goodwin-, Professor'of Modern Languages, is librarian. There are four libraries belonging to societies of under gradiates of the college, viz: The Peucinian Society library - - - 4,800 vols Athenaean Society. library 3,800'S (These two libraries are incireased annually, each by about d200 volumes. )'Phieoiogical Society library - - -c - 750 Peace Society library - - -500 (The books belonging to the Peace Society were presented'.,by the late William Ladd, esq.) t'he medical department of thb college, established in 1820, has a remarkably good lihary of -' - 3,300 " The Historical Societg of Maine was incorporated February 5, 1822., it has a small library of books, pamphlets, manuscripts and papers, relating principally to the history of Maine. The' society has received, during; the last year, a grant of land from the legislature, which will yield about $6,000, for, the express purpose of erecting a fire-proof building. When such a building is completed, a new interest will doubtless be awakened in the community in behalf of tile society, and it is expected that large collections of manuscripts and papers of historic value with reference to the State, now kept in reserve waiting. for a safe place of deposite, will be received, and will form an important and valuable library. Professor Aipheus S. Packard, of Bowdoin College, Brunswick, librarian. HO.ULTON. Forest Club Library-200 vols.-Aroostook county is sitfated in the northern forests of Maine. Houlton, the shire town, is nearly 100 miles from any settlement of importance in the United States. It is, however, gratifying to record the estahlishihent in this place of a public library, in July, 1849. The number of its volumes is as yet inconsiderable; but we chronicle its formation with the hope that the notice may, in some humble manner, serve its interests by directing towards it the donations of those who have books to bestow. William Butterfield, librarian. PORTLAND. Athlenctum Library-i70'ols.-This institution was incorporated March 6, 1827. The library contains (1849) 6,170 volumes. The rate of increase cannot be accurately stated; a new system of supervision has lately- been adopted, which will hereafter enable the librarian to give such information., The institution has a find, now amounting to $3,100, and increasing at the rate of $300 to $500 per year, intended for the genera purposes of the Athenteum. 9-~; h ~120 An alphabetical catalogue of 88 pages in 12mo. was printed in 1839. Another was printed, December, 1849, entitled "Catalogue of the Library of the Portland Athenaeum-; with the By-Laws of the Institution, adopted February 1'9, 1849." 12mo. Portland, 1849: in 150:pages. The books are arranged in: 18 ghapters. This catalogue is well compiled and hand. somely printed. The library is open twice a week, 3, hours each time. The persons entitled to the use of the library are, proprietors of shares, costing $40 each, and others on payment of $10 annually. 8,150 books were lent out during the last year. James Merrill, librarian. The following historical,account of the Athenaeum is from a book just published by Mr. Willis, of Portland: "(rThis institution is the successor to the Library Society, which was; established in 1765, by twenty-six gentlemen, who associated together for that purpose. Previous to that time there was nothing in the fobrm of a library existing in town. The library opened in 1766 with 93 volumes, of which 62 volumes were "Ancient and' Modern Universal History,''Rapin',s History of England,' 7 vols.,'Lardner's Writers of the: New Testament,' 3 oels.,'London Magazine>,' 9 vols., &c. Not much addition was made till after the Revolution, during which the small collection Was scattered, and a number of the books lost. In 1780 a new attempt wals made to resuscitate it, and the fragments were reunited. But it was not till the peace of'83 that any successful: movement was made to give it vitality. In May, 1784, twenty-six new members were admitted, who, were required to pay -two dollars. each, in money or books. Others were: subsequently admitted on the same conditions. On the 3d of April, 1786, the library was valued atX'-25; the worth was diminished by the number of broken sets of works which it contained. In 1794, the books were again appraised, and valued at d~64 3s. 8d., and the price of admission was ~aised td 42s. The committee were this year instructed to purchase Sullivan's History of Maine, Hutchinson's History of Massachusetts, Belknap's Biography, Ramsay's American Revolution and Carolina, and the History of the County of Worcester. These are all American publications and on American subjects. In 1798 they procured an act of incorporation. The library went on slowly, and gradually increasing until 1825, when its number of volumes was 1,640, and its proprietors 82; and the whole. annual, expense $331. At this period the design was formed for enlarging the: institution, and giving it a more elevated and diffusive character, better suited to the wants of the age and spirit of the times. The present Athenaeum grew out of these suggestions. It was incorporated in March, 1826; purchased the property of the old library, and the former society was dissolved, most of the members becoming proprietors /of the new institution. One hundred and thirty-three persons became proprietors in the Athenmaum, at $100 a share, of which $60 only were paid, the principal part of which was invested i bank stock, as a fund towards the support of the establishment.. The bo iis go into circulation to all the members who pay a tax of $5 a year, and to others who pay $10. The library, which has been continually increasing to the present time, is now conveniently arranged in the large room over the. Canal Bank, and contains (1848) 5,750 volumes of the literature of the days through which it ha's lived, embracing the best periodical publications and standard works. For its size there are few libraries more' valuable. A new impulse has [ 120 ] 10 been given to it the present year'; upwards of 40 new shares have been taken up, at $40 each. The institution is an honor to the city, and should receive a liberal regard from every citizen who is able to contribute to this unexceptionable public improvement. Charles S. D)aveis is now president; and Phineas Barnes, secretary and treasurer."-[Journals of the Rev. Thomas Smith and the Rev. Samuel Deane, pastors of the First Church in Portland, with notes and biographical notices and a summary history of Portland. By William Willis: 8vo., Portland, 1849: pp. 441-2, appendix.] WATERVILLE. Waterville Ckollege Libraries —S,484 vols.-The college was founded in 1820. The college library contains 5,200 volumes; other libraries permanently connected with the college, 3,284 volumes; making a total of books to which students have access, of 8,484 volumes. The average increase is about fifty volumes yearly. The sum of $10,000 is pledged as a library fund, but not yet realized. The library is in a building erected for chapel, library and philosophical apparatus; the building is of brick, and cost about $8,000; the room used for the books is about 30 by 40 feet. A catalogue was printed in 1845, containing 47 pages 8vo.' The library is opened twice a week, and kept open half an hour each time. The trustees, faculty, and students are entitled to the use of the books without charge; the students pay one dollar a year for the privilege; other persons are allowed to consult the library, at the discretion ofthe librarian and library committee. Professor M. B. Anderson is librarian. DISTRICT SCHOOL LLBRARIES —452 VOLUMES. "The statute of 1844, chapter 106,'authorizes school districts to expend a portion of their money in the purchase of books for a district library. The small amount of school money in a majority of the districts, divided and subdivided as they have been, has rendered it inexpedient to divert any portion of it from the ordinary purposes of the school; and for this reason, but little progress has been made in the formation of school libraries."-[First report of Secretary of the Board of Education, presented May 25, 1847.] The secretary in his second report (1848) states that eleven districts had established libraries. In *the last report (1849) the secretary says " there are but seventeen school district libraries in the State, containing in all 452 volumes." OTHER LIBRARIES. Besides the libraries already mentioned, there are doubtless others from which no reports have been received. A correspondent, who is intimately acquainted with the differentt arts of the State, writes: "There are but few town libraries in the State. A large proportion of our religious societies have what are termed Sunday school libraries; these, however, are made up of works designed more particularly for juvenile readers. Some of our academies have libraries, and there may be a few, but a very few, social libraries. ~ We have a large number of valuable private libraries, on which dust is not permitted to gather." i1 [ 120] NEW HAMPSHIRE. CONCORD. The State Library-4,700 vols.-commenced prior to the Revolution, and contains at present (November, 1849)Judicial reports 400 vols. Legislative documents, statutes, &c.. - 2,486 " Miscellaneous works - -- 1, 625 " Pamphlets - - - 1.,905 Maps. - 28 Atlases - - - 7 For the last two years it has increased about 300 volumes yearly; the eight years previous, about 75 volumes yearly. About $100 per annum have been expended for the purchase of books. Thete is a standing appropriation of that amount. The library occupies a toom in the north wing of the State House, which is 23 feet by 43. A catalogue (57 pages 8vo.) was printed in 1846. The library is open during each day.when the legislature is in session. The members and clerks of the Senate and House during the sessions of the legislature, and at all times, the goveraor and council, judges of the superior court, secretary and treasurer, may take out books, to be returned in one month. Except during a session, any person may take out books by depositing double the value thereof, as security for the return of the book in good order. Few books, however, are lent out in this way-perhaps fifty a year. It is impossible to tell how many consult the library in the room. During the session of the legislature it is generally resorted to by the members.. Thomas P. Treadwell, Secretary of State and ex-officio librarian. The Methodist General Biblical Institute —1,000 vols.-This library was commenced in 1846, and contains at present 1,000 volumes and 17 maps. It receives about 250 volumes annually by donation. It is open Tuesdays-and Thursdays, during one hour. About 400 books are lent out annually to the students and instructors of the Institute. Professor Osmon C. Baker, librarian. -The New Hampshire Historical Society-1,500 vols. —This society owes its origin and much of its early prosperity to the suggestions and active exertions of Mr. John Farmer and Mr. Jacob B. Moore. It was founded March 13, 1823, the two hundredth year after the first settle. ment of the State, and incorporated the 13th of June following. Its objects are like those of the other Historical Societies in the country. They are thus stated'in the first article of the constitution, namely: "To discover, procure, and preserve whatever may relate to the natural, civil, literary and ecclesiastical history of the United States in general, and of this State in particular." The society has published five volumes of valuable collections. The library of the society contained, in 183S,'about 1,500 volumes, a considerable collection of;pamphlets and newspapers, a small collection of minerals, some valuable manuscripts, ancient coins and Indian relics," The Hon. William Plumer, its first president, gave to the-society several hundred volumes of American state-papers, arranged with a copious manuscript index by himself. The Hon. Williamn Bartlett gave his private library, a part of the library of the late Nathaniel Peabody, [120] ]12 and a portfolio of autograph MS. letters, amounting to about 200 in all. Deposited in the library "are a considerable number of papers and documents, formerly belonging to the Rev. Dr. Belknap, and used by him in the compilation of the second and third volumes of the History of New HEampshire." transmitted to the society by John Belknap, esq. son of the reverend historian. An article in the fifth volume of the society's collections, written by Hon. William Bartlett, entitled "Remarks and.Docurnents relating to the; preservation and keeping of the public Archives,"' deserves tobe particularly mentioned, and commended to the careful perusal of librarians,, seretaries of state, and all others to whose care are intrusted the original records of our history.'-[See Hist. N. H. Historical Society, in American Quarterly Register, February, 1838, pp. 229-241.] DUBLIN. The Union Library, founded in 1793, contains 438 volumes. Pro. prietors pay $1 50 per share and an annual assessment of 25 cents. 374 cents per year are paid by those who borrow books. L. W. Leonard, librarian. Ladies' Library, founded 1799, contains 161 volumes. Mrs. Lucy Marshall, librarian. Juvenile Library, founded 1822, contains 1,817 volumes on the catalogue; some are worn out, some lost; about.$16 per year expended for books; the use of the library is free to all persons in town. L. W. Leonard, librarian. EXETER. Phillips Academy has a library of about 800 volumes, which has been slowly accumulating since 1783, rwhen the academy was first opened for the admission of pupils. The purchases are made at the discretion of the principal, mostly for the benefit of the instructors. Connected with. the academy is a library belonging to a society of the present members of the institution, containing: l,400 volumes. It is undoer the immediate care of a librarian chosen each term. It contains valuable books adapted to the wanes of the students. Gideon L. Sou-ll) principal. GILMANTON. Theological Seminary.-This seminary was established in 1835 by the Congregationalists. The number of volumes in the library is stated in the American Almanac for 1850 to be 4,300. GREAT FALLS. lManufacturers' and Villa e Library-2,200 vols.-A catalogue, of this library, containing numbers 1 to 1,628, was printed January 1, 1847; 16 pages octavo, with supplements-June 24, l148, 1 page; March 24, 1849, 4 pages; and March, 1850, 4 pages. Proprietors pay 7t2 initiation fee and $1 annual assessment. All females in the, employ of the Great Falls Man ']. [120 ] ufacturing Company are entitled to the benefit of the library on payment of 26 cents annually. HANOVER. Dartmouth College Libraries-20 600 vols.-From various sources, principally from the "'Bibliotheca S'acra," April, 1850, we gather the following faqts: The college was founded in 1769. From that time it has gradually gathered a library which now contains about 6,400 volumes, and 17 portraits in oil. Among these last are: a full-length portrait of the Earl of Dartrfiouth, a copy of the original by Sir Joshua Reynolds, and a donation of the present Earl; a portrait of Daniel Webster, of Jeremiah Smith, Jeremiah Mason, Francis Hopkinson; a full length;portrait of Eleazar Wheelock, the first president of the college; of John Phillips, df Exeter, also full 1length; of Samuel Appleton, Charles Marsh, &c. The library contains some rare and valuable works, but is deficient in new books. The libraries &f'the two societies of students- the Social Friends and the United Fraternity-contain each 6,500 volumes; are well s elected, and include many very valu'able works, both fbr reference' and miscellaneous reading; some with costly illustrations. A-few years ago a building (costing about $10,000) was erected for the accommodation of the three libraries. The two society libraries have published catalogues.:The library of the-medical department contains about 1,200 volumes. Thie Northeran Academy of Arts and Sciences- 1,300 vols.-This society was formed June 24, 1841, and is composed of the professors of Dartmouth College and a few other gentlemen in the vicinity. It has 800 unbound volumes of pamphlets, etc., partially arranged; also 700 unbound voitmes of newspapers. This collection also contains some valuable private papers, among which are a meteorological journal kept by Mr. John Farmer, of Concord, New Hampshire, from IS13 to 1830; Governor Bartlett's correspondence from 1774 to 1794; also a MS. journal of the weather, kept by Eleazar Russell, esq., of Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Efforts were early made to procure for the library complete sets of the first newspapers printed in that part of the country. Spooner's Journal, published at Hanover by Judah. C.'Spooner and Timothy Greene in 1771, and from February, 1781, at Westmirister and Windsor, Vermont, is nearly complete. This paper' is extremely valuable, as it was published at the time of the American Revolution, and was the first periodical issued in that part of the country, and consequently contains much of its early history. Complete sets of the Vermont Chronicle, the Boston Recorder, and the Dartmouth Gazette, are also contained in the library.-[See American Quarterly Register, November, 1842.] MERIDEN VILLAGE, PLAINFIEL]). Kimball Union Academy Libraries7-2,000 vols.-The academy library, founded in 1814, contains 1,000 volumes. About $1()0 per annum are generally appropriated from the-funds Of the institutiop towards purchasing books for the library. The endowment of the academy is rich; (about $40,000 in stocks, and $20;000 in buildings.)'The library is open Sat [120] 14 urdays from. 1 to 2 o'clock.' The use is free to all connected with the academy. A catalogue was printed some 15 years ago; another will be put to press very soon. C. S. Richards, A. M., principal, and ex officio librarian. The Philadelphian Society, composed of students of the academy, possesses a library of 1,000 volumes of choice books. It was founded soon after the academy library, and is increased annually, by the voluntary contributions of the members, about 50 to 70 volumes. NEW HAMPTON. Theolorical Seminary Libraries-2,200 vols. —The "New Hampton Acadeny" was incorporated in 1821. In 1826 its name was cllanged to the "Academical and Theological Institution at New Hampton." The theological departmnent went into full operation in 1833. It is under the care and patronage of the Baptist denomination. The department has a library of 600 well selected volumes.-[See History of the New Hampton Theological Institution, by W. E. Wording, A. M., in the American Quarterly Register for Mllay, 1842.] The Literary Adelphi of the Academical and Theological Institution at,New Hampton, New Hampshire, was founded A. D. 1827, and incorporated by the legislature of the State in 1829. "There are abou.t S00 volumes in the library, most of which are valuable standard works. Ef-forts are being made to enlarge the library, and several friends have made valuable donations. The reading room is spacious and convenient, and by the liberality of patrons is furnished with about 20 regular newspapers from different parts of the country. Besides this, the society receives several of the most popular and valuable literary periodicals of the present day."-[See note to the "Catalogue of Members of the L. A.;" 12ino. Concord, 1844.] In the year 1830 a new society, called the Social Fraternity, was formed. It has a library and reading-room similar to those of the Literary Adelphi. —[See Wording's History.] NEW IPSWICIH. The academy at New Ipswich was incorporated in 1789. It has a small library, presented by Samuel Appleton, of' Boston. The l)emosthenean Society, among the students, lids also a small library. A valuable town library was destroyed by fire some years since. The present one is small but well selected. —[New Hampshire Historical Collections, vol. 5, p 161 ] NORT\t JIFIELD. Library of thNe New IHamnpshire Conference Seminary-c 1 0 00 0volumes, PORTSMOUT H. Atheneurm, Library —7,284 vols. —Incorporated in 1817. The library contains 7,284 volumes, 150 engravings, and 246 coins. The yearly average increase for the last ten years has been 200 volumes. The annual 1b [f120] expenditure, $200. The building now occupied by the Athenaeum was purchased for $7,500; it is of brick, with slated roof, three stories high; the first story is used as a reading and newspaper room; the second is the library, and the third a museum and cabinet. The books are arranged on the shelves according to subjects. A shelf-eatalogue is prepared, containing thetitles of the books as they stand upon the shelves; by this the library is annually examined. A "Catalogue of books in the Portsmouth Athenmum, to which are added the by-laws of the institution and a list of its proprietors," 108 pages 8vo., was printed at Ports. mouth in May, 1833; at that time the library contained between 4,000 and 5,000 volumes. A "Catalogue of books added to the library of Portsmouth Athenaeum, from May, 1833, to January, 1839," was published at Portsmouth in 1839, 31 pages- Svo.; at this time the library contained 5,300 volumes. This catalogue is alphabetical; the titles are recorded under the names of authors, with cross-references from subjects to authorsthe subjects and authors being arranged in one alphabet. rThis is a very convenient way in; a small library. Another "Catalogue of books in the Portsmouth Athenaeum, to which are added the by-laws of the institution and a list of its proprietors," 192 pages 8vo., was printed January 1, 1849, at Portsmouth. This catalogue is upon the same plan as the preceding. From a note (page 12) we take the following facts respecting the history of the institution: "In 1829, John Fisher, esq.,of London, gave his library in this town, amounting to nearly 300 valuable volumes, to the Athencurm. In February, 1830, James Edward Sheafe bequeathed $1,000 to the Athenarum, which sum was invested in the purchase of books fbr the library. In October, 1843, Horace Appleton Haven bequeathed $2,000 to the Atheneumn-one moiety for the purchase of books, and the other for the preservation of the library. These sums have been invested accordingly.' T'Ihe library is open every day from sunrise to ten o'clock in the evening. Persons allowed the use of the library are: proprietors of shares; and subscribers, who, on the payment of six dollars a year, may read in the library room. Proprietors can take out books, two at a time, which they may change as often as they please. George Jaffrey, librarian. St. John's Church, Library —500 vols. Unitarian Church Library-678 vols. SANBORNTON BRIDGE. Public Library-300 vols. WAKEFIELD, Wakefield and Brookfield Union Library —500 vols.-This library colm pany was incorporated in 1797. It commenced with thirty members; in 1 827 there were- forty-four members; in 1849 there are only twenty eight members. The library contains 500 volumes, mostly histories and biogra. phies. William Sawyer, j*,i librarian, SCHOOL LIBRARIES-2,500 VOLUMES. In the State of New Hampshire there are perhaps twenty-five libraries, averaging 100 volumes each, connected with the district schools. There are doubtless many small social libraries in this State, from which'no r.eturns have been received, '[ 120 ] 16 V E R Al 0O N T. I3URLINGTON. University of Vermont-12-,250 volts:'This institution was incorporated in 1791. The library was commenced when the college went into operation, in the year ISOt). It contains at present (1849) about 7,000 volurnes, as near as can be estimated, without including 5 volumnes of atlases and 63 unbound maps. The average annual increase for the last ten years has been about 100 by donation, and about the same number by purchase. About fifty dollars a year were appropriated, previous to 18846, for buying books; since then, seventy-five dollars. There is a permanent fund of $1,250 for the increase of the library, yielding 6 per cent. interest. There is a classified "Catalogue of the books belonging to the library of the University of Vermont,' 8vo., 93 pp.; printed in 1i36, with supplement (alphabetical) 1842, Svo., 24 pp. The library is opened twice each week, for one hour. The Faculty of the University use the library without charge. Students pay $1 50 per year for the privilege. Others are allowed the use of it by special permission of the president. Books are lent out, to be returned or renewed as often as once in two weeks. Professor Calvin Pease, librarian. This is one of the few libraries in the United States selected with comn petent bibliographical knowledge and with good judgment, and purchased with economy. The college had the wisdom to send a learned, zealous, and active agent, to Europe to buy the books, instead of trusting their funds to the cupidity of bibliopoles. The selection was made to meet the wants of the officers of the college, and, consequently, of the students. Somewhat less than two-thirds of the books are in the English language. The collections of Greek and Latin authors are nearly: cbmplete, and of the best editions. A large part of the library of the Hon. George P. Mairsh, minister of the United States to Turkey, amounting to between 3,000 and 4,000 volumes, is deposited in this library. Nearly all these works are in foreign languages, principally in the Spanish and Scandi'navian. There are, however, some very rare books in the English language. [See Bibliotheca Sacra.] The libraries of the three societies of students contain, respectively, 2,000, 2,000, 1,250 volumes. AIRDDLE1 URiC Middlebury College Libraries-8,417 vols. -This institution was found. ed in 1800. The college library contains about 5,000 volumes, and occupies a room in a building with the cabinet of natural history, lecturerooms, &c. A catalogue was printed in 1833, containing 1 6 pp. Svo., double columns. The library is opened once a week, and kept open for an hour. The students pay four dollars a year for the use of books. Resident graduates, clergymen in the neigltborhood, and others, by permission,of the librarian and Faculty of the college, are allowed to take out books without charge. The students have three libraries, namely: The library of the Philomathesian Society (miscellaneous) 2,200 volumes, " " Philadelphian Society (religious) 432's The Beneficent Library (mostly text books) - 785 6" Professor R. D. C. Robbins, librarian.: 17 [ 120 ] 1MONtPELIE R. &ate Library-3,500 vols.-This library contains about 3,500 volumes, maps of, the several States, a few engravings, and thirty medals. It occupies a room in the State House! 36 feet by 20, with alcoves, and- gallery eight feet from floor, with seven and a half feet above it. Open every day during the session of the legislature and'council of censors. The books are not lent out, except to members of the legislature and council, on their becoming responsible for their safe return. Cornelius N; Carpenter, Montpelier, librarian. Historical and Antiquarian Society of Vermonto-This society was incorporated November 22, 1838. Its library and collections are as yet very small. The president, Henry Stevens, esq., of Barnet, possesses a very valuable collection of books, newspapers, manuscripts, &c., illustrative of the history of the State, amounting to about 1,500 volumes, NORWICH. Norwich University Library-1,032 vols.-This institution was founded in 1834. The fibrary, commenced in 1.843, contains 1,032 volumes and a few maps and charts..The average annual increase is 200 volumes; average annual. expenditure, twenty-five dollars. The room is adorned by a full-length portrait of the distinguished and lamented Colonel T. B. Ransom, former president of the college. The library has no permanent fund. It is opened at three o'clock on Saturday afternoons, and at such other times as visitors may desire. The faculty, students, members of the corporation, and donors, are entitled to the use of the books. Ira Davis, librarian. 5MASSA C HUSETT S. AMHERST.' Amherst College Libraries-13,700 vols. —The college libiarv was founded at the opening of the college, in 18S21, and contains 5,700 volulmes.. The average annual increase is about 120 volumes. Three or four years since, David Sears, esq., of Boston, gave to the college, expressly for the library, an estate, in the city of Boston, which yields $120 per ainum. He has since given another,, yielding a larger income; and has thus established a perpetual fund, called the "' Sears Foundation," which is to accumulate slowly, and mainly for the use of the library. The annual amount appropriated for the purchase of books is at present uncertain; probably not over $300. The library occupies a room in the same building with the chapel and other public apartments; it is about 40 feet by 20. A catalogue (38 pages 12mo.) was printed in 1827; but the most valuable part of the library has been purchased since. The library is opened once a week for taking and returning books., The officers take'out books ad libitum; the students pay four and- five'cents for each work; some 200 or 300 are usually out at a time, in possession of the teachers; the students take but few on account of the large miscellanqous libraries of the societies. Professor E. S. Snell, librarian. 2 1201] 1 The libraries of the two literary societies of students contain, togeth er. 8,000 volumes. The Society of Inquiry has a small museum. An effort is now making, which it is hoped wDill be fully successiul to enlarge the college library. The library is, at present,'v deficient in even the standard works of science. Ten thousand dollars ought to be given to the college for its library, and an equal sum for a library building.' -[Independent.] " The trustees propose to raise, without delay, $30,000 fbr the increase of the library and the erection of a suitable library building.'7-[Boston Traveller correspondent, August 10, 1850.] ANDOVER. The Th.eological Seminary Libraries- 20,249 vols.-This seminary is under the direction of the trustees of Phillips'Academy, which was found, ed April 21, 1778, and belongs to the Orthodox Congregationalists. The library was commenced in 1S08, and contains -at present 16,300) volumes. During the last ten years there have been added to the library upwards of 4,000 volumes, including a bequest from the Rev. John Codman, D. I)., of Dorchester, of 1,250 volumes. During the same period the expehditure for books has beeh about $700 per annum. There is a permanent fund of about $12,000, the income of which is appropriated to the purchase of books. The library is in a handsome room in the second story of a brick building, erected in 1818, at an expense of about $19,000,!or ch-apel, recitatiolb roo.ms, and library. The library room is 60 feet by 40, and about 18 feet high, fitted up with alcoves, and adorned with the portraits of the principal benefactors of the institution. TIhe books are arranged but partially according to subjects. In 1819 a catalogue of 160 pages 8vo., by Professor J. \W. Gibbs, now of New HIaven, was printed. In 1838 an elaborate catalogue, containing 531 pages 8vo., was published. A supplementary catalogue of 67 pages Svo. was printed in 1849. The library is opened three times a we.ek, fiom 1 to 3 o'clock p. m. The persons entitled to the use of the books are, besides the oficers of the seminary, students and resident lic:-ntiates on the payment of $3 per annum, and others by permission of the faculty. Each student is allowed eight books at a time. Probably 4,000 volumes are lenat out in the course of the year. Books may be carried out of town by permission froml the faculty,. Edward Robie, librarian. Besides the public library, the following collections are connected with the seminary: Library of the Porter Rhetorical Society - - 2,600 vols. (A catalogue of this library was printed in 1839, in octavo form.) Librarv of the Society of Inquiry - - - 1,349' The library of the Andover Theological Seminary is one of the most valuable in the country. The books mostly belong to the departments of theology and philology. It is a selected library, and not a chance accumnulation of volumes rejected from the shelves of a multitude of donors. Profound theological learning, thorough bibliographical knowledge and skill, have for the most part presided over the fbrmation and arrangeements on the library. The catalogue, by Rev. Oliver A. Taylor, A. M., now a 19 [ 120] clergyman in Manchester, Massachusetts, has, we believe, no superior among printed catalogues of libraries. It -is on the plan of Audifreddi. The books are placed under the. authors' names. The names are in alphabetical order. To the name of each author is appentled a biographical note. Annotations upon the books are also interspersed through the work. The catalogue is destitute of an index. To supply one, characterized by the same minute accuracy as the catalogue, would be a difficult and expensive undertaking. We cannot help addlingj however, that, if accomplished, it would be a most important aid to theological study, and amply repay the cost of the work. The want of such an index is in a great measure supplied to the students of the seminary by the references given by the professors in their lectures. CC The library has ordered a collection of between 2,000 and 3,000 small books and pamphlets, relating to or written by the Puritans and published in Fangland in the time of Charles I, the Commonwealth, and Charles II. The department in the library which is most fully supplied is that relating to the Christian Fathers, and Church History generally. It'has also a good collection of works relating to biblical commentary, criticism, and antiquities. It possesses also many of the best early editions of the Greek and Roman classics and works illustrative of them. It is quite deficient in works' on the English language and standard English literature; in the productions of the English and American Puritans; in general works of science which would be suitable to a theological library; in the best later editions of the classics, etc."-[Bibliotheca Sacra.] Phillips Academy Library 1,000 vols. English High School Library - - - 800:BOSTON. TheUlBoston Athenceum Library —50,000 vols.-The Athenreum owes its origin to a society of gentlemen who conducted a literary pulblication, called the'"Monthly Anthology." In the year.106, they issued proposals for establishing a reading-room to contain the most valuable foreign and American journals, with works of reference suitable to such a place of resort, open to subscribers at $10 per annum. The enterprise proved unexpectedly successful. Many valuable books were presented, and the gentlemen who commenced the undertaking, in order more effectually to secure and extend the benefits of their labor and expense, transferred their right in the Anthology Reading Room anj Iibrary to trustees, with power to, supply vacancies in their number.. At the winter session of the legislature in 1807, the proprietors were incorporated under the name of the'Boston Athenaeum. "" The price of a share was fixed at $300. Annual subscribers were admitted at $10 per annum. From these sources, occasional voluntary subscriptions and frequent donations, the institution has risen to its present important position. The principal endowments of the Athenaeum before the year 1S47 are thus enumerated in an inscription under the corner-stone of the new building: Snow's History of Boston. [ 120] 20 "The sim: of $42,000 was raised for the general purrposes of the Ath-. nrium, by voluntary subscription for shares created in 1807. "James Perkins, in 1821, gave his own. costly mansion in Pearl street, which from that time has been the seat of the institutioi. "'In the same year, the surn of $22,001) was raised by voluntary subscriptions for shares.'"Thomas Handasyd Perkins (besides his earlier and later valuable do-,nations,) and James Perkins the younger, seconded, in, 1826, the liberality of the brother and: the father, each giving $8,000; and the sum, of their. contributions was increased to $45,000 by other subscriptions, obtained chiefly through the efforts and influence of Nathaniel Bowditch, Frailci Calley Gray, George Ticknor, and Thomas WrensWard. "Augustust' Thorndike, in 1823, gave a- choice collection of casts of the most celebrated ancient statues. "George Watson Brimmer, in 1835, gave a magnificent collection of hooks on the fine arts, "John Bromfield, in 1846, gave $25,000 as a fund to be regularly increased by one quarter of the income, of which the other three-quarters are to be annually applied to the purchase of books forever. ".'The sum of.75,000, for the erection of the building, was, raised by voluntary subscription for shares created in 1844."* Liberality like this is seldom witnessed, and deserves the most honorable mention. The institution first occupied rooms in Congress street, whence it was removed.to Scollay's buildings, in Court street, and in 1810 to the building on Common (now Tremont) street, north of King's Chapel burial ground In the year 1822 it was removed to the house in Pearl street presented, as already stated, by James Perkins. Ill 1S23 the King's Chapql Library and the Theological Library, containing together 1j300 volumes of theological works, were:deposited in the Athenaeum, where they' still remain. In 1826 a-union was effected with the Boston Medical Library, and its books, valued at $4,500, were added. to those of the Athenauam. In the same year, also, an association which had been formed for. the purchase of a scientific library became merged in the Athenmeum, and its *funds, exceeding $3,000, were transferred to the Athenaum to be expended in the purchase of scientific books.-[See sketch of the Boston Athe — npum, by Edward Wigglesworth, M. A., in the'American Quarterly Register" for November, 1839.] In, July, 1849, the library Is removed to its new home in Beacon street, just above the Tremont House. The location is central, yet free from-the dust and noise of crowded thoroughfares. The edifice is elegant, spacious, and convenient. The front is 100 feet long and 60 feet high,in the Palladian style of architecture, and built of freestone. The other walls are of brick. In the basement story are rooms for the packing of books, for a bindery, for the accommodation of the janitor, &c. The: main entrance opens into a pillared and panelled rotundo, from which the staircases conduct above. On the first floor are two large reading-rooms, a room for the trustees, and a sculpture gallery, 80 feet by 40. The library occupies the second story, which is divided into three rooms, two in front and "'This sum having been found insufficient for thQ completion of the building, an additional subscription for two hundred shares has been opened, and is now (April, 1850) nearly filled up. 21 [-120] one large hall (109 feet by 40) in the rear. The western division of this room is filled with Encyclopedias; Transactions of learned socie ties, Magazine's, and other works in long series of volumes, The other and larger portion is divided into 26 alcoves, and contains about 40,000 volumes. This hall is beautifuilly finished in the Italian style. The shelving is carried to the height of 18 or 20 feet, and the upper shelves are made accessible by means of a light iron gallery, reached by five spiral staircases. The two front rooms will accommodate some 25,000 volumes. The picture gallery occupies the upper story. It is divided into six,apartments, each lighted by a skylight. It is admirably adapted to its purposes. The roof affords a magnificent view of the city and the'surrounding. country. The whole biilding is constructed in the most substantial and workman-. like manner. -c Besides 50,000 bound volumes, including 1,500 or 1,600 volumes of' pamphlets, the library possesses 20,000 or more unbound pamphlets, between 400 and 500 volumes of engravings, and the most valuable collection of coins in that part of the country. For an American library it is rich in certain departments, e. g. in the reports and transactions of learned societies, in periodical publications in the English language, works in the natural sciences, &c. It has complete sets of tihd Transa:tions of the Royal Society of London, the French Institute, the royal societies' of Berlin, Copenhagen, G6ttingen, Lisbon, Madrid, Stockholm, St. Petersburg, Turin, etc. It has also the Encyclopedie Raisonn-, 35 volumes folio; the Encyclopedie Methodique, 258 volumes 4to., including 37 of' plates; Buflon's Natural History by Sonnini, 127. volumes 8vo., &c.t The iftstitution has lately received a valuable collection of books and papers, once forming a part of the library of General Washington. It contains in all about 450 bound volumes, and from 800 to 1,000 pamphlets unbound, nearly all of which belonged to the library of Washington. About 350 contain his autograph, and a few of them notes in his handwriting. One little book has the autograph of Washington in a rude, school-boy hand, at about the age of nine years. There are several autographs of Augustine Washington, the father of the General; of Mary, the mother, and of Martha, the wife. -One book containis on the title-page tje autograph of John Custis, (first husband of Martha,) and on the next leaf that of George Washington. One volume has the mautograph of Thomas Jenifer, a signer of the Declaration of Independence. There are several presentation copies from eminent authors-Sir John Sinclair, Arthur Young, Ebeling, Alfieri, Jefferson, Dr. Morse, and others. Ten volumes contain the name of Richard Henry Iee in his own handwriting. These books came into the possession of the Athenaeum in the following manner. General Washington bequeathed, his books and papers to his nephew, Bushrod Washington. On the death of Bushrod Washington the library was divided: one portion was left at Mount Vernon, where it still remains; another fell to Colonel Washington.'Thie latter portion included the public papers, afterwards purchased by Congrdss, and a considerable number of the books, pamphlets, and private papers. The books had been offered for sale. Congress had declined the purchase. Mir. Henry Stevens at last bought the collection, and offered it " Literary World, August 11, 1849. fBibliotheca Sacra, January, 1850. [.120 ] 22 for sale to the Athenm-wun. A fer gentlemen of Boston and vicinity sutb scribed the required amount, and presented these precious memorials of the world's best hero to this institution. An elegant descriptive catalogue; prepared by an accurate and accomplished scholar, will soon be published. The Atthen5murn possesses many valuable paintings and statues. Among the latter is the Orpheus of Crawford, in marble. Several catalogues of the books have been printed; one, without date, in 266 pages Svo., in which the books are arranged in 16 classes. Another, and the last, was printed in 1827, and contains 356 pages Svo. It is alphabetical. A supplement (60 pages) was printed in 1829; a seconr (80 pages) in 1834. These two supplements, xwith the other additions to the library up to 1840, were in that year printed together in a volume containing 179 pages Svo. A complete and elaborate catal-'ue is now in preparation. T'he printed catalogues have not heretofore contained the titles of the numerofis pamphlets belonging to the library. A neat a.id accurate catalogue of these pamphlets, prepared by Dr. A. A. Gould, and complete to within two or three years, exists in manuscript. The present librarian is Charles Folsom, esq. It is highly creditable to the wisdom of the trustees that they have chosen for this important post so ripe' scholar; and so accomplished a gentleman. The irfluence of sylch an officer is indalculable; not only in forming far-seeing plans for thie ircrease and arrangement of the collection, but in aiding the researches of learned men, in guidiing the studies of youth, and in leading the intellectual pursuits of an educated community. The library is hardly surpassed, eithter in size or in value, by any other in the cotuntry; a.nd its regulations are framed with the design that it shall answer the highest purposes of a public library. Practically it is such; for each proprietor, besides the right for himself and his family to use the library, may grant to two other persons constant access to it, free of all assessments; and tickets for a month to any number of strangers. Any person, indeed, stranger or resident, may be introduced for a special purpose by a note from a proprietor. Thus, the by-laws open the doors of the institution to a large number of persons; so that the proprietor who bestovs on others the free use of all the rights hlie can impart, renders himself thlereby a public benefactor. The following are the principal regulations of the institution: The proprietors meet annually on tile first M'onday of January. The officers are chosen annually. They are a president, vice president, treasurer, secretary, and nine trustees.' The trustees appoint a librarian, and sub-librarian. The price of a share is $300`, that of a life subscription $100. Ainual subscribers pay $1.0 for the use of the library and reading-room, but are rot allowed to takre out- books. Every proprietor has, besides his own right, twvo rights of admission transferable to such persons as he may select. Proprietors and life shareholders, on paying 85 annually, may take books home-not to exceed four volumes at once. Every proprietor and life subscriber may introduce strangers not residing within twenty miles of Bostonl and such strangers are entitied to visit }he Athnenrua im for one monulth from the timle of their introduction. Certain persons by virtue of their offices are entitled to fee admission to the Athle nTum,. 1hese are the governor and council, the lieutenant 23 [ 120 ] governor and members of the legislature of Massachusetts for the time being, the judges of the Supreme Court and of the courts of the Uniied States, the officers and resident graduates of Harvard College, of Williams College, of Amherst College, and of the Theological Seminary at Andover, the several presidents of the American Academy, Historical Society, Medical Society, Agricultural Society, Salem Athenaeum, and the East India Marine Society of Salem; also clergymen settled in Boston. These last are likewise allowed to take out books on the same terms as proprietors. 7'he Boston Library-12,150 vots.-The first meeting of the members of the Boston Library Society was held the Ist of November, 1792, and the society was incorporated in 1794. At the annual meeting in May, 1849, the number of' volumes in the library was 12,150. About 250 volumes, on an average, have been added to the library annually, during the last ten years. The average annual expenditure for books, during the same period, has been, including binding and repairs, $378 69. The library is supported by an annual assessment levied on the proprietors, and by fines incurred. The income from these sources is about $850 per annum. The apartments occupied by the Boston Library were a donation to the infant society in the winter of 1793-'94 by Messrs. Bulfinch (the architect of the capitol at Washington,) Vaughan & Scollay, "being the hall over the arch of the Tontine Buildings, in Franklin Place." The cost to the society of completing the rooms was $857.57. The society has since purchased, for $t,500'dollars, of the Massachusetts Historical Society, a room of the same area, being the upper story of thle I-uilding. Each apalrtment is 37 feet in length by 27 in front, and 33 feet in the rear; from which should be deducted staircase and closets. Catalogues and supplements were printed at various dates, (1795, 1797, 1807, 1815, &e.) A new and accurate catalogue of 335 pages,, 8vo., was printed in 1844, and a supplemental catalogue of 48 pages was completed in September, 1849, to'Which is appended a list of works relating to America, of 20 pages. The library is opened at 3 o'clock on the afternoon of each Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, for three hours, or till dark, and on the morning of Saturday from 10 o'clock till 1 o'clock. No one can take books from the library, except the proprietors, without the special permission of the trustees.'the price of a share is $25, subject to an assessment of $3 annually. Each proprietor can take out three volumes at one time. The librarian estimates the number of volumes annually charged to proprietors at 15,000. The number of persons that consult the library, without taking away books, is simall; but the trustees cheerfully give every reasonable facility to all persons having occasion. to consult the library. Occasional applications for books have been made from the neighboring towns, which have always been granted. George S. Bulfincl, librarian. The principal object of.the society has been to form. a collection- of books for popular use, admitting none of an injurious moral tendency, and preferring those of solid and standard value. History and biography, (particularly American,) travels, the English and French classics, and fiction, are the departments best supplied. aMost of the books have been selected and purchased. The donations have been comparatively few. For some years after the library was founded, the shares were not trans 1201 24 ferable, and subscribers had only the use of the libray for their lives; consequently, by the death of original proprietors, many shares have fallen into the common stock; which has given to the shares of present proprie. tors a value far beyond their cost. Shares are now, however, transferable% and do not cease at the death of the proprietor. The Library of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences-8, 000 vols.-T his society was incorporated May 4, 1780. Among the scientific associations of the United States, it is next in age to the American Philosophical Society at Philadelphia, which is the oldest in the country. The average annual increase of the library is about 150 volumes. An annual appropriation of about $600 is made from the general fund of the academy for the purchase of books. The library is opened during the day, every week-day. All members of the academy, and strangers, are allowed the use of the books, which may be taken out by any mnember, or-in his name. A catalogue (57 pp. 8vo.) was printed in 1802. Lists of accessions are, from time to time, printed in the publications of the academy. John Bacon, jr., M. b., is librarian. This library contains a valuable collection of the memoirs and transactions of learned societies, reviews and magazines, and of modern scientific works. It is kept in two rooms leased by the society in Tremont Row, No. 7T. Library of the General Court-7,400 vols. —The State library was established by an act of the legislature, passed March 3, 1826, requiring that " all books axid manuscripts belonging to the commonwealth, and now in any of the departments of the State House, shall be collected, deposited, and arranged, in proper cases, in the room in said State House usually called the -land office." It contains, at present, 7,400 volumes, 80 maps and charts, 5 atlases, 37 railroad planls, 1 portrait, 3 tableaus, and 6 medals. The yearly increase for the last eleven years is as follows: Volumes. 1838 -..... 452 1839.. 396 1840 - - 260 1841 - - 358 1842 -. - - - 348 1843... 334 1844 -..... - 367 1845. - - 583 18a6. -. 336 1847. - 791 1848... 455 Total' -... 4,680 Averaging 425 per annum. About $395 per annum has, during this time, been expended in the purchase of books. The regular appropriation for the library has been $300 per annum, with occasional extra allowances " to procure such books, manuscripts and charts, works of science and the arts, as tend to illustrate the resources and means of improvement of this commonwealth or of the United States." " Additions are also made annually of the statutes, legislative journals and documents, and law reports of the United States and of the several States of the Union, received in exchange througlf the secretary's department. Of such works it prob 25f [120] ably contains a more comrplete collection, than any other library. One thousand and eighty duplicate volumes of laws, public documents, and reports, have been deposited in the law library of Harvard University by a resolve of the legislature. " The library contains Mr. Audubon's collection of American Birds, in four large folio volumers, at an original cost of about six hundred dollars. An addition was recently made of 440 volumes of French, German and Swedish books of science, arts, history and statistics, some of which are of great value, by international exchanges through M. Vattemare. Among them are the following works, presented by the Chamber of Deputies:Collection of Etruscan, Greek, and Roman antiquities, from the cabinet of -Ion. William Hamilton, Naples, I766; fout large folio volumes, with English and French text, and 520 plates. Presented by the Minister of the Interior:-Monuments of Nineveh, published by order of the government; descriptions by P. E. Botta —designs by E. Flandin: the first ten numbers-to be continued. Presented by the Minister of Agriculture and Commerce:-Statistics ofFrance, comprising territory, population, exterral commerce, etc., fron 1837 to 1:8t3; ninelarge folio volumes. Presented by the National Library of France:-The New Theatre of the, World, containing maps, tables, descriptions, etc. of all the regions of the globe; 1639; 3 large folio volumes. This, cohsidering its date, is a magnificent work. The Holy Evangelists, in Arabic and Latin:'printed at Rome, in the typographia of Lorenzo de Medici, 1591, large folio; the works of Euclid,. in Arabic: printed at Rome, in the 16th century, folio; Acta His. torica Ecclesiastica Nostri Temporis: printed at Weimar, 1741 to 1774, extremely rare, 43 volumes. Presented by the King of Sweden: —History of-the Kingdom of the Moors until their expulsion in 1.726, in Arabic and Latin: edited by Professor. Tornberg, 2 volumes in one; Ancient Sweden, etc., with 3 volumes of plates of its provinces, cities, buildings, etc., in oblong quarto. The choicest volumes in the State library to a descendant and admirer of the Puritans, and indeed to any true son of New England, are the ancient General Court Records,of Massachusetts. They are copies, in manuscript, of original papers in the archives of the Secretary of State, and make:34 large folio volumes. The Records com. oence with 1629 and extend to -October, 1777, and contain the entire legislative and much of the religious history of Massachusetts between those periods. Each volume has a copious index at its close, containing the names of persons and places, also a list of subjects spoken of;, in separate columns, which facilitates reference, and greatly increases the value of these treasures of our colonial history. No books in the library are con; suited more frequently or with more interest. Since the first volume was transcribed, several pages have been inserted at the beginning, containing records of a still earlier date."* The secretary of the board of education is, by a recent law, made exoicio librarian, and is allowed an assistant. Two rooms in the State House,are appropriated to the library; one of them is 54 feet by 22, and the other 36 by 25. The books are arranged in cases with glass doors, and generally according to subjects. A catalogue (43 pp. Svo.) was published in 1831; another in 8vo. was printed in t839. The last catalogue (125 pp. 8vo.) was printed in 1846. The library is open every weekday from 9 a. m. to about sunset, and, during the session of the ~Bibliotheca Sacra, January, 1850. [ 120 ] 26 legislature, sometimes in the evening. Books are lent to members of the legislature and officers of the State. Rev. Barnes Sears, D. T)., secretary of board of education, and librarian; Rev. Charles T. Jackson, assistant. Mlercantile Library —7,059 vols.-The Mercantile Library Association was founded March 11, 1820, and incorporated in 1845. The library contains 7,059 volumes. The average annual increase for the last ten years has been 400 volumes; the average annual expenditure $375. There is a fund of $16,100, yielding six per cent. per annum, for the support of tho library. The library is in two rooms, each 80 feet by 35. The arrangement on the shelves is according to the date of purchase. A catalogue was printed in 1848, consisting of 135 pages 8vo. The library is open every week-day evening till tenl o'clock. Any person engaged in mercantile pursuits may acquire the right to use the library by paying two dollars per annum. Books are lent out, twenty-eight thousand annually. John Stetson, president. The library is composed of such works in the field of general literature as are suited to the tastes and wants of merchants and merchants' clerks. In the readiig-room are 89 newspapers and 21 reviews and magazines. The number of members of the association is novw 1,145. An annual course of lectures is delivered by distinguished gentlemen. The members participate in exercises of debate, declamation and composition. The whole number of tickets for the lectures in 1848-'9 was 1,300.Library of the lclassachusetts Historical &`ociety-7,0t() vols.-The foundation of the Massachusetts.Historical Society was originally snuggest. ed by Rev. Jeremny Belknap and Mr. Thomas W\alcutt. It was organized in 1791, and incorporated in 1794. The number of members is limited by the act of incorporation to sixty. The library contains about 7,000 volumes, inclusive of bound newspapers; about 2,000 unbound pamphlets, 300 maps and charts, 450 volumes of manuscripts, a few coins, and 70 portraits. It increases about 100 volumes annually, wholly by donations. The society possesses no funds, not even for the support of a librarian. The entrance fees and annual assessments go for binding and other charges. The library occupies rooms in a stone edifice, erected in 1833. These rooms were purchased by the society for $6,500; $5,000 of which Were collected by subscription at that time. These rooms are 84 feet by 40 in their whole length and breadth. The books are placed upon the shelves according to size, without regard to subjects. Two catalogues have been published-the first, 40 pages S-vo., in 1796; the second, conmpiled by Rev. Timothy Alden, 96 pages Svo., was printed in 1811. The continuation is in manuscript. The library is.open daily from 9 a, m. to 1 o'clock p. mn., and from 3 to 6 p. m. It is accessible to members and others pursuing historical investigations. About 200 volumes a year are lent out. About 1,000 persons a year consult the library without talking away books. By permission of the standing committee, books may be lent to persons at a distance. Rev. Joseph B. Felt, librarian. " Among the most valuable treasures belonging to this society are the manuscripts of the historian Hubbard; of the first Governor Winthrop, 11 volumes; of Governor Hutch.inson; of Governor Jonathan Trumbull, of Connecticut, 23 volumes; the manuscript of WTashington's Farewell Ad*Bibliotheca Sacra, January, 1850. 27 [120 ] dress to the officers of the American army.. The society has also 98 folio yolumes of Commercial Statistics of the United States, embracing the years from 181.6 to 1842*inclusive, drawn up with care, and very comnplete. There is a copy of' Eliot's Indian Bible in the library. Thirty volumes of Collections have been printed, in three series, of 10 volumes each. The last volume of each series contains a full index of all the volumes in the series. The portraits of about seventy persons', mostly New England worthies, adorn one of the rooms. Some of these are of special value, e. g. the portraits of Rev, Increase Mather and of Rev. John Wilson. ": An interesting "Account of the Massachusetts Historical Society,"' prepared by William Jenks, D. D., of Boston, was printed in the American Quarterly Register for November, 1837, pages 166-177. T7he iwMechanics' Apprentices Library-4,Q00O vols.-This institution claims the distinction of being the first of its kind established in the worll.t It is due to the wise suggestion and philanthropic energy of iMr. William Woody now living in Canandaigla, New York. Lord Bi'ougham remarks, that "C although the remote origin of these institutions may be traced to Franklin, 1Mr.'Wood has the merit of establishing them on their present plan, and adapting them peculiarly to the instruction of mechanics and apprentices. - He founded the first in Boston, in 1820." Mr. W` ood has been actively engaged in the formation of libraries of a similar character in most of o.ur large cities, and has even extended his benevolent efforts to the cities of the Old'World. In his own words, 1" from the establishment of this library;in 1820, until now, as opportunity offered, the circulation of books, in any shape lwhich might do good, has been the hobby of a life now drawing to a close." The name of this gentleman deserves to be held in lasting and grateful rememlbrnce as a public benefactor. MiPnr. Wood's efforts to coliect a library for apprentices in Boston were warmly seconded by several distinguished citizens, and about 1,500 volumes were soon collected. The library was a gift from the public to. the apprentices of Boston. On the 22d of February, 1820, it was formally intrusted to the guardianship of the Massachusetts Charitable Mechanics' Association, a society of long standing and established reputation. They agreed to take upon themselves the ma.nagement of the institution on condition that they should not be chargeable with its incidental expenses. The library was accordingly opened and the apprentices gratuitously supplied with books; the expenses being defrayed by public subscriptions. After a few years these subscriptions ceased, and the doors of the library were consequently closed. The apprentices feeling keenly this''deprivation, held a meeting and agreed to take upon themselves the cares and responsibilities of' the establishment- if the association would appropriate. a small amount to aid them in the undertaking. This request met with a favorable answer. The present Association of Apprentices was formed June 19, 1828;'and the library committed to their entire control in 1832, by the Miechanics' Association. * Bibliotheca S.cra, January, 1850. t For a full and interesting history of this institution, see an address delivered before the association on its 24th anniversary, by Frederick W. inicolnl, jr., Boston, 1844, front which this account is substantially taken. [ 1.20 ] 28 The association consists entirely of apprentices to mechanics and manufacturers-of course embracing only minors. Any young man who isl an apprentice to a respectable mechanic, (and lea~'ning a mechanical trade,) on producing a certificate that he is worthy. of confidence, paying into the treasury the sum of one dollar per year, and signing the constitution, shall be a member. The affairs of the institution have been very ably and successfully conducted by its youthful members. The association occupies two rooms in Phillips Place, opposite the head of School street; the one for reading and lecture room, (say 30 feet by 40,) the other (say 30 by 15) for library and conversation room. The library is well selected to promote the intellectual culture of the class for whom it was intended. The reading department contains the principal newspapers and periodicals of the city, and many from different parts of the country, and is in a most flourishing condition. A cabinet of minerals and curi. osities has been commenced; an annual course of free lectures is supported by the institution; an elocution class has been formed, the exercises of which consist in the reading of original compositions, declamation, and debate. The yearly average increase of the library for the last ten years has been 175 volumes. A catalogue was printed in 1847, containing 68 pages rhe library is open. three hours every Tuesday and Saturday evening. About 10,000 volumes are lent out annually.: Robert H. Howell, jr., is the present librarian. Librariy of the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions-3,500 vols. —This library was founded in 1822, and contains, besides 3,500 volumes, a few manuscripts and valuable maps. The average annual increase is about 150 volumes. The library is in the Mission RHquse, Pemberton Square. There is a catalogue, but it has not been printed. The collection is designed mainly for the use of the officers of the board, and is alwvays accessible to them. The books are occasionally lent to persons investigating subjects relating to missions. It is designed to be a library for reference on subjects connected with the work of foreia missions; is in no sense a circulating library, and nothing is paid for the use of the books. Books may be lent to persons at a distance by consent of the prudential committee. Rev. S. L. Pomroy,'D. D., Secretary A. B. C. F. M. Library of the Boston Society of Natural History-3,500 vols.-The Boston Society of Natural History was foundedl in the winter of 1830, and incorporated February 24, 1831. Its great design isto "promote a taste and afford facilities for the pursuit of natural history, by mutual co-operation and the collection of a cabinet and library." The society has been conducted with much energy. It holds regular and frequent meetings, issues a "Journal," and has collected a valuable cabinet'and library. "When the society originated, the great difficulty in the way of making advances in the study of natural history was the want of books. When we consider how essential a library is to the study and arrangement of every department of the cabinet, it cannot but be felt that the society have done wisely to contribute largely towards it. It is of vital importance that the naturalist who is engaged in the inwstigation of any subject, should be able to know all that has been written upon his subject. Scientific books are expensive, and no mlan among us can promise hiniself such a library as 29 [ 120 ] he mayneed."-[See notices of Boston Society of Natural History, by Dr. A. A. Gould, in the American Quarterly Register, February, 1842? pp. 236, seq.] The library contained (1849) about 1,600 volumes* and a small number of maps and engravings. The yearly average increase is about 100 volumes. The average annual expenditure for books is about $200. The society has a permanent fund of about $12,000-$10,000 of which were received from a bequest of Ambrose S. Courtis, esq., $300 from a grant by the State, and $500 from the legacy of Simon -E. Greene, esq.-one third of the income of which is, by vote, appropriated to the library. This arraingement is liable to alteration. The society owns a brick building with ir'on shutters. This contains the library and cabinet, and cost $30,000. The library room is 30 by 26 feet. The centre building is 40 by 30 feet, with1 two wings 26 by 30 feet each. The last catalogue was printed in 1837, and contains 27 pp. 8vo. The library is open daily from 9 till 1 o'clock. Individuals not members of the society are freely allowed to make use of the books on application. About 300 volumes are taken out during the year, and about 150 different persons consult the library yearly withouiut taking away books. Books are lent to persons at a distance who are known to be engaged in scientific pursuits requiring them. The library committee has power- to lendl them, and so may any member, he being responsible for their safe return. Charles K. Dillaway, librarian. "'It is expected that the choice library of D)r. Amos Binney, formerly president of the society, will be incorporated with: that of the society. Both will form a fine collection of the most important works in natural history in the English and French languages. "t Th/e American Oriental Society-400 vols.-though yet in its infancy, has commenced the collection of a library. It contains only a few hundred.volumes, 68 Muhammedan coins, 17 Arabic MSS;., I Syriac MS. of a portion of the Ol( Testament, (600 years old,) and 5 Turkish MSS. These are all donations. The books are lent out only to the members of the society. The collection is at present deposited in the Boston Athenrum. Francis Gardner, librarian. The Library of the American Statistical Association-2,000 vols.-This society was formed November 27, 1839, and incorporated January 7, 1841. Its purposes are to collect, preserve, and diffuse statistical information-[See a notice:of the society in the American Quarterly Register for May, 1841, pp. 451, seq.] The LibraWy of the New England Genealogical Association —1,5 0 vols. —The Nlew England Historic Genealogical Society was incorporated the 17th March, 1845. Its object is- "to collect and preserve the genealogy and history of early New England families." Its library is mostly the fruit of donations, and comprises most of the local histories of New England. The New England Historical and Genealogical Register, published quarterly under the auspices of the society, is a valuable: repository of facts relating to the early history of the country.The Social Law Library-3,000 vols.-This library occupies a room in the court-house. A catalogue containing32 pp. 8vo. was published in 1824. * In the report in 1850, the number is stated at 3,500 volumes,' Bibliotheca Sacra,- January, 1850., [120] 30 The Boowditch Library —2,500 vols.-TheIle late illustrious mathematician, Dr. N. Bowditch, collected a valuable scientific library of about 2,500 votlumes. Since his death, his fanily, vTith a liberality worthy of their namie, have allowed to the public the free use of the books. Although, therefore, this collection is private property, its public usefulness requires that it should find a place in notices of the public libraries of Boston. The proprietors have, we believe, expresse.d a desire, in case the city should erect a proper building and actively undertake to establish a public library, to bestow their shares upon such an institution. But no provision has yet been made for rendering the library permanently public. The proprietors have established the fbllowing "rules for the Bowditch Library, at 8 Otis Place, Boston: "As this library is peculiarly valuable from the circumstance of its former ownership, it is particularly requested that books taket from it be used with care and returned punctually, subject to. the following rules: "1. No person will be allowed more than four volumes at a tine.'"2. If any book be lost, it must be replaced, although, of cgurse, the loss can never be entirely supplied. "'3. No book-must be kept from' the library more than three. months, without being renewed upon the record book. "4. All books must be returned on or before March Ist, of each year, for examinatiQn. After the 20th of the samrle month the library will be again opened. -"5. Omission, for the space of one week, to comply with the requisitions contained either in the third or fourth rule, deprives the party in default of the right thereafter to use the library, unless two at least of the proprietors are satisfied that the neglect is excusable, or are willing to pass over the omission. "'March 16, 1846." About 250 volumes are taken out annually. None have been lost,'The Prince Library-1,800 vols.-"The Old S6uth Church (Congregational) in Boston possesses a valuable collection of books and MSS., bequeathed to the church by Rev. Thomas Prince, one of its pastors, (the learned author of'the Chronological History.of New England,' &c.) Mr. Prince, while in college, in 1703, began a collection of books, and public and private papers, relating to the civil and religious history of Nvew England, to which he continued to make valuable additions for more than fifty years. It is a precious collection, containing many standard works in church history and biblical literature and theology, the works of the early divines of New England, and valuable pamphlets and MSS. "-[Bibliotheca Sacra, January, 1850.] Mr Prince's will was proved in 1758. Since that period, or nearly one hundred years, this has been the public library of that Church, and accessible to any person desirous of using it for literary purposes. It appears from Mr. Prince's will, that he had made a separate collection (to which he gave the name of the New England Library) of books, papers, &c., either published in New England or pertaining to its history and public affairs. This collection he gave also'to the Old South Church, on condition that it should be kept in a different apartment from the other books, and "that no person shall borrow any book or paper therefrom, but that any persoin whom the pastorsand deacons.of said Church shall approve, may have access thereto." In 1814, 259 works, as they are numbered 31 [ 120] on the catalogue, belonying to this library, were deposited in the rooms of the Massachusetts PHistorical Society. A'Ccatalogue of the library of Rev. Thlornas Prince, former pastor of Old South Church., presented by' him to the Old South Church and Society,"' in 112 pages 8Vo., was printed at Boston in 1846. It is to be regretted that a catalogue so well printed should be'so badly arranged, or rather so entirely destitute of all use. ful arrangement. CAMBRID-GE. Harvard College Libraries-84,200 vols.-On the 24th of January, 1764, in a stormy winter's night during the college vacation, Harvard Hall, containing the library of more than 5,000 volumes, the philosophical apparatus, and all the little collections of objects of interest belonging to the college, was destroyed by-fire. "Thus perished the'valuable books gi`Ven by John Harvard, Sir Kenelm-Digby, Sir Johrl Maynard, Dr. Lightfoot, Dr. Gale, Bishop Berkeley, and other distinguished benefactors; the books and pamplilets connected with the early history of New England, the precious, though scanty, accumulations of a hundred and twenty-six years-a loss which in those days must have seemed: appalling, and which the historian, the antiquary, and -the bibliographer can never cease to deplore." The State. legislature was in session. In-deed, at the time of the calamity, Harvard fHall was occupied- by them in consequence of the alarm excited by the existence of the small pox in Boston. At the instigation of Goverinor Bernard, they immediately'appropriated,2,000 to erect a newbuilding in place of that which had been destroyed while'occupied by them. A general subscription was made for the same purpose among the towns and counties of the State, amounting to 8S78 16s. 9d.` A generous sympathy was shown by many persons in'the parent country. The subscription of Thomas Hollis, for the new building, was p200. The friends of the institution manifested notless zeal and liberality in supplyinig the mew hall with books. The General Assembly of New Hampshire gave books'to the value of p300 sterling. e The Society for propagating the Gostpel in' New England' and adjacent parts gave.?200 sterling, and the Society for propagating the-Gospel in foreign parts gave X100 for the library. In 1790 the library had increased to 12,000 volumes; in 1S30, to 30,000.'lt is almost entirely the fruit of individual munificence. First among its distinguished benefactors stands th e'name of Thomas HIollis, whose "'deeds of peace" entitle him to our warmest respet and gratitude. The books which3 during: the first ten' years of the present library, he placed upon its shelves, were very nurmerous,t admirably chosen, and many of them elegantly bound, and contain ing curious and interesting notes in his own handwriting. At his decease, in 1774, he bequeathed to the college a sum of money: which now Constitutes. a fund of $3,000, the interest of which is laid out in the purchase of books. In a note in'Giggeius' Thesaurus Ling-Arab., he states that he has "been particularly industrious in collecting grammars and lexicons of the oriental root larrguages, to send to Harvard College, in hopes of forming by- that means, * See sketch of the history of Harvard -College, by Samuel A. Eliot, Boston, 1848. t'lthe arrivals of 43 "cases" are noted on the records at different intervals during this period. t i0E 32 assisted by the energy of the leaders, always beneficent, a few pr'Me scholars, honors to their country and lights to matikind." Thomas Brand Iollis gave to the library many excellent books, and at his decease, in 1806, one hundred pounds sterling. Hon. John Hancockl in- pursuance of the known intention of his uncle, Thomas Hancock, Whose estate he inherited, presented to the library in 1767 five hundred and fiftyfotr pounds sterling. He gave for himself, also, "a large collection of chosen authors.'-" Thomas Palmer, of Boston, in 1772, presented "the Antiquities of IEerculanseun, and Piranesi's Views of Rome, in 20 folio vols.;" and at his decease, in 1820, bequeathed his library of nearly 1,200 "choice and costly volumes," valued at $2,500. Samuel ghapleigh, librarian of the university, in 1801, gave a piece of land and the residue of his estate for the increase of the library. The sum obtained from this bequest was 83,000, the interest of which is applied to the purchase of' books in modern literature. Israel Thorndike, of Boston, purchased and presented, in the year 1818, the celebrated library of Professor Ebeling, of Hambwugh, containing 3,200 volumes of works mostly relating to America, and a collection of 10,000 maps and charts, " probably unrivalled by any other collection of the kind in the, world." The whole cost $6,500. In 1823 Samuel A. Eliot, of Boston, purchased and presented the valnuable collection of books relating to America of D. B. Warden, consisting of 1,200 volumes, besides maps, prints, and chartsj.costing $5,000. The "' Boylston Medical Library," of more than 1,100 volumes, was presented by Ward Nicholas Boylston. The sum of $2,000, given to the university in 1825, by Hon. Peter O.' Thacher, "from a fund left him in trust by the late'William Breed, esq., of Boston," was applied by the corporation to the purchase of books for the. library. The lion. Christopher Gore, who had previously enriched the law library by frequent and valuable donations, at his death, in 1831, left by will to the college the residue of his estate, of which $38,000 are reserved for annuities bequeathed by him. The whole ultimately receivable by the college amounts to $94,888-. From this fund Gore Hall, the present library building, has been erected. In 1842 the sum of $21,008 was subscribed by thirty-four gentlemen in Boston and vicinity, for the purchase of books, not as a permanent fund, but for use when wanted. In 1844 Horace A. Haven bequeathed, for the purchase of mathematical and astronomical works for the library, the sum of $3,000. In 1845 the Hon. William Prescott bequeathed $3,000, which has been expended. for books on American history, topography, &c. In 1846 Hon: Thomas Grenville, of London, gave, through President Everett,.100 for the purchase of books for the library.t The library of the university is at present divided into four departments, viz:. public, law, theological, and medical. The public library- contains 56,000 volumes of printed b6oks and bound manuscripts. The volumes in the library were counted July 11, 1849, and found to be 55,605. Including the additions since made, the number may be put down at 56,000; this includes the bound manuscripts. The unbound pamphlets and serial works are estimated, exclusive of duplicates, * Mr. Warden subsequently made a second collection, which was bought by the State library of New York. t l have been able to notice only the most important donations to the library. For a full list of them, se'ethe appendix to Eliot's History of Harvard College; compare also the preface to the catalogue, by Benjamin Pierce. tobe 25,000; they probably exceed this number. No- enumeiration; of MSS. separate from the foregoing has been made. In 1819, seven;Greek MSS. were procured in Constantinople, one a fragment ofan Evangelistary, probably of the* ninth century; there are some Latin MSS., and: several oriental MSSO, in Arabic, Persian, Hindostanee, Japanese, etc. Of Roman coins and medals, the library has 671 in copper, 43 in silver, and 1 in gold; of ancient coins other than Roman, 8; there are about. 500 modern coins of all sorts, and 35 modern medals. The annual increase of the library, since 1832 has been as follows: For the years endingVolumes. Pamphlets. - Volumes. Pamphlets. July 13, 1S32 1, 299, 255, including 502 and 190 given. July 12, 1833 - 602, 212, do 156 204 do July l1, 1834 815, 737, do 371 733 do July 10, 1835 -- 227, 84, do 156 181t do July 15, 1836 - 1,343, 237, do 384 153 do July 14, 1837 - 1,0439 205, do 310 185 do July 13, 1838 803, 200, do 317 172: do July 12, 1839 - 551, 532, do 238 532 do July 10, 1840 - 251, 249, do 161 242 do July 9, 1841 - SSI 1,402, do 270 1, 119 do July 11, 1842 - 840, 700, do 419 700 do July 11, 1843 - 1,353, 1,597, do 322 1,421 do July 9, 1844 - 3,645, 1,333, do 453 1,318 do July 15, 1845 - 2,928, 3, 806, do 652 3, 122 do July 14, 1846 - 2,018, 3,477, do 679 3, 319 do July 13, 1847 - 1,762, 3,321, do 1,072 3,205 do July 11, 1848 - 1,523, 2,632, do 540 2,520 do July 11, 1849 - 724, 1,645, do 396 1,580 dd. As the books bought for the last seven years have been procured with the money subscribed in 1842, they are to be considered as donations; so that all the additions since 1842 are strictly gifts. The only permanent fund for the increase of the library yields $450 per alnnum. In 1842, the sum of $22,000 was raised by subscription, to be applied to the purchase of books, but not as a permanent fund. This sum. is now reduced to $5,883, which will probably be entirely expended in the course of two or three years. Among the late additions are works in modern English literature, German literature, with the classical and other departments, scientific works, etc.+ The only permanent fund for the increase of the library is the combined Hollis and Shapleigh fund, which yields about $450 per annum. The principal is $6,000. The public library' is kept in Gore Hall, the foundation of which was laid April 25, 1837, and to which the books were re'moved July, 1841. The onter walls of the building are of rough stone (Quincy granite, or sienite,) laid in regular courses, with hammered stone buttresses, towers, pinnacles, drip-stones, &c. The inner walls, columns, and the' main floor (which rests on solid brick' arches) are' of-brick, the floor covered with hard pine boards; the other parts finished with plaster. The partitions arestrengthened with iron columns concealed within them, and the roof and galleries rest on iron: rafters. The whole cost, including. *Bibljotheca Sacra, January, 1850. Mjis.3'. 120 a4 the heating apparatus, was little short of $75,000. It is in the form of a latin cross, the extreme length of which externally is 140 feet, and through the transept 81- feet. The interior contains a hall 112 feet long and 35 feet high, with a vaulted ceiling, supported by 20 ribbed columns. The spaces between the columlns and side walls are divided by partitions, into stalls or alcoves for books above and below the gallery, which is 1.29 feet from the floor. One transept is used for a reading-room, and the other is divided into three apartments for books. (See Quincy's History of Harvard University, II, page 599.) The books are arranged according to subjects. A catalogue of the old library in 102 pages 4to. was published in 1.723, with the title, "'Catalogus Librorumn Bibliotheca Collegii Harvardini quod est Cantabrigiae in Nova Anglia. Bost. Nov. Angl. typis B. Green." After the burning of the library a "Selectior Catalogus in usum Academise Alumnnorum" was published, but no copy of it exists in the library. Another, "Catalogus Bibliothecae Harvardianae. Cantabrigie, Nov. Anglorum. Bostonia', typis T. and J. Fleet, 1790;' Svo., 358 pages. The last printed catalogue is entitled: "A Catalogue of the Library of Harvard University, in Cambridge, Massachusetts; 3 vols. 8vo. Camb., 1830.' This catalogue was prepared by Benjamin Peirce, then librarian. The first two volumes (952 pages) contain an alphabetical catalogue. The 3d volume (223 pages) contains a systematic index, in the five classes:theology, jurisprudence, arts and sciences, belles-lettres, history; with a sixth division, comprising works relating to America. Each class has numerous subdivisions. As a 4th volume, was published "'A catalogue of the maps and charts in the library of Harvard University, 8vo. Camb., 1831;" 322 pages; also prepared by Mr. Peirce. A "First Supplement" to the catalogue, prepared by the present librarian, was published in 1834, (260 pp. Svo.) containing the additions to the library up to September 1, 1833. All officers and students-of the University, officers of the State government and members of the legislature, clergymen of all denominations living within ten miles of the library, benefactors to the library to the amount of $40 during their residence in Cambridge, and all persons temporarily residing in Cambridge, for purposes of study, may borrow books from the library, under certain conditions prescribed in the laws. "A ready admittance, and the requisite information and facilities for examining and consulting the works, are afforded to all visitors. The privileges granted to individuals are not exceeded by those enjoyed at any other institution of a similar kind, and are believed to be in all respects as great as a due regard to general accommodation and to the preservation of the books would permit. "- [Preface to catalogue.] A small suim is assessed on the students for the use of the library. All other persons are allowed to take out books without charge. The library is very much used for the purpose of consultation, not only by persons who are entitled to borrow books, but by others. The books have not suffered much by insects. The injury has been confined mostly to old books infested before they came to the library, and to some others which were kept in closed cabinets. The present officers are: librarian, Thaddeus William Harris, M. D.; assistant, Rev. John L. Sibley; temporary.aesistant, Mr. Ezra Abbot; janitor, Mr. Thomas Kiernan. $5 [ 120 ] The society libraries connected with the college contain about 12,000'V6lurnes. Such deficiencies in contemporary literature as the students have at any time felt in using the public library, they have attempted to supply in their society libraries. The oldest society of students of Harvard College is The Institute of 1770. It was formed in that year, as a debating club, with other literary purposes. Different clubs have since been joined to this society, and the library consists of the collections formed by them for their members from the current literature of the periods when they were purchased. Present library 2,500 volumes; annual increase about one hundred. The Porcelian Club is a convivial and literary club of many years standing. Considerable annual additions from the periodical and other current literature are made to its library, which is the largest society library connected'with the university, and contains a large number of valuable editions. At present it consists of about 5,000 volumes. The Hasty Pudding Club-a social and literary organization founded in 1795-has a library which was established thirteen years afterwards. It now contains about 3,500 volumes. The annual increase is now about 300 volumes-the additions being made at present solely by the donations of the members. The intention of the library is to give to the members of the club those facilities for reference and relaxation which are ordinarily afforded by a gentleman's private library. It therefore consists of a selection from standard literature, in collecting which an especial design has been to embrace complete sets of the leading reviews, as well as the current literature of the day. The Cambridge Alpha of the Phi Beta Kappa society is the oldest branch of that institution since the parent at Williams College expired. It was founded in 1781. For several years after that time a library of English standard literature was collected, which amounts to about 500 volumes. No additions have been made to it in recent years. The Natural History, Rumford, and Hermeaan societies-associations comparatively recently formed-have small, but increasing libraries. The Harvard Chapter of the Alpha Delta Phi society has a small library containing merely the books written by its graduate members, and a collection of periodicals. These may be set down together at 500 volumes. The Law Library was commenced by the purchase of the valuable collection of Judge Story. It is in the building erected for the Law School. It contains about 14,000 volumes-havin~g cost, excluding large donations, more than $35,000. "It includes all the'American reports, and the statutes of the United States, as well as those of all the States, a regular series of all the English reports, including the Year Books, and also the English statutes, as well as the principal treatises in American and English law, besides a large collection of Scotch, French, German, Dutch, Spanish, Italian, and other foreign law, and a very ample collection of the best editions of the Roman or civil law, together with the works of the most celebrated commentators upon that law."[Annual Catalogue, 1849-'50.]:"This library," (say, the committee of overseers in their annual report for 1849,) "is one of the largest and most valuable relating to law to be found in the country. As an aid to study it cannot be estimated too [ 1US] 3; highly. Here the student may range at will through all the demesnes of jurisprudence. Here he may acquire a knowledge of the books of his profession; learning their true character and value, which will be of incalculable service to him in his fiuture labors. Whoso knows how to use a library, possesses the very keys of knowledge. Next to knowing the law, is knowing where the law is to be found." The library is open for the use of students duTing the term, and those who desire it pursue their studies there, especially in the preparation of their moot-court cases. Several catalogues of the library have been published; one (not, we believe, the first) was in 80 pages 8vo., 1833; a supplement (16 pages 8vo.) contained the books bequeathed to the library by Hon. Samuel Livermore, of Portsmouth, N. H. A general catalogue of the library was published in 1834, (228 pages Svo.) This excellent catalogue, prepared by Charles Surnner, esq., is alphabetical, with a systematic index.'The preface contains an interesting sketch of the history of the library. The fourth edition, with the additions, was printed in 1846, in 354 pages 8vo. "The Theological library is in Divinity, Hall. Persons entitled to its privileges must be connected with the Divinity School. Number of books about 3,000. They consist of valuable select works, principally in modern theology,.with some of the early fathers in the original. Means have'been recently devised to add to the library valuable modern works in theology and morals, as they are published. " The Medical library is in the Medical College in Boston. It isp laced there for the convenience of students attending the medical lectures. The numberof books is about 1,200. It contains all the elementary works which are the most important and the most used by students. Besides these, it has the writings of the early Greek and Latin medical fathers and the worirs of the later medical classics; and, with the latter, it contains numerous valuable modern works. " CAMBRIDGEPORT. Parish Library-500 vobs.-This library was founded in 1849. "One hundred volumes were given by a member of the society; nearly as many more, formerly belonging to the Sunday School Teachers' Library, have been transferred to this; the others have been purchased from the proceeds of' the contributions at church." "Every family belonging to the society will be entitled to one volume at a time, which may be kept two weeks."9 A catalogue containing 8 pages 12mo. was printed in 1849. B. L. Whitney, librarian. y,U. GROTON. Library of Lawrence Academy-2,650 vols.-In 1827, at the recommendation of Mr. Elizur Wright, then the preceptor of the academy, the trustees commenced the formation of a library, by the purchase of eightysix books. For ten years these, without any additions, were used by the students. They were the only ones ever purchased by the corporation. In 1838, Mr. Amos Lawrence, of Boston, made a donation of 180 voiumes, and, up to the commencement of the year 1850, his successive gifts comprise 2,400 volumes-nearly the whole collection. Sixty volumes were presented by the American Tract Society; sixty-three were the relics of the library of a literary society formerly connected with the school; four were a gift from the corporation of Harvard College, through the kindness of President Sparks; a few were received from members of Congress. The library is " well selected, free from all corrupting and trashy literature, and adapted to form a taste for useful and solid reading." The Uibrary is open on Wednesday to the male pupils, and on Saturday to the females. A catalogue in 8vo., 206 pages, was printed at Lowell in 1850; it is alphabetical, with a classified index; it is in every respect a well executed work. Fromn. the preface, signed by James Means', the present preceptor, we have gathered the facts stated above. LAWRENCE. The Pranrklin Library —850 vols.-The Franklin Library Association was incorporated April 24, 1t47, and possesses S50 voliimes. A catalogue of the books (14 pages l2mo.) was printed in 1848. The library is opened on Tuesdays from 7 to 9 p. mi., and on SatUrdays from 12 m. to 1;p. n., from 4 to 5 and from 7 to 8 p:. m. N. W. Harmon, librarian. L0W'ELL. City School Library-7,492 vols.-Founded in 1844. First opened for -the delivery of books February 11, 1845. It contains 7,492 volumes. The first purchase consisted of 3,800 volumes. There have since been added from 1,o000 to 1,500 volumes annually. The city drew from the State its proportion of a fund that had been accumulating for the purpose of forming school libraries, amounting to $1,215, and appropriated $2;,000 to purchase this library. The next year the appropriation was $1,000, and since then it has been $500 yearly for the purchase of books. The library occupies a room 60 feet by 28, on the ground floor of a brick building belonging to the city, and centrally located. The books are arranged according to size, without regard to subjects, and each volume is numbered.. The first catalogue (printed 1844) contains 66 pages 16mo. Four annual supplements have been printed, containing each 21 pages, The library is open every day, except Sunday, from 2 to 5 and frol' to 9 p. m. Every citizen may take books out of the library, by giving satisfactory evidence that they. will be carefully used, and by paying fifty cents annually. The number of subscribers is about S00, entitled to two volumes per week each. Josiah Hubbard, librarian. Library of the Middlesex Mechanics' Association- 5,386 vols.-Incorporated in 1825. Reading-room established 1834. The library contains 5,5386 volumes. D-uring the last ten years, the annual average expenditure for the purchase of books has been $314. In 1833-734 the association erected a large building of brick, at an expense of $29,486 04, for all the purposes of the association. The library-room is: 40 feet by 26, and 1t feet high. The reading-room is of the same size. A catalogue was printed in 1840, containing 136 pages Svo. 89 pages are devoted to an alphabetical catalogue of the books, and 47 pages to a classified index, the large divisions of which are science, history, literatuie, government, and polities. Theology is included under science. Each division has [ 120) 38 several subdivisions. A supplement of 22 pages was printed in 184l6,; All members of the association, and other persons, citizens of Lowell, by paying an annual subscription of six dollars,. are admitted to the privileges of the library and reading-rooml. The books are lent out. The library is open every day except Sunday froml 2 till 5 o'clock p. nm. and in the evening from 7 to 9. Strangers may be introduced by members to the use of library and reading-room. Mr. - Crafts, librarian. NANTUCKET. The Athenaeum Library-2,552 vols.-The Athenaum was founded in 1836. The library was destroyed by fire in July, 1846; refurnished and opened to the public in February, 1847; contained, in January, 1849, 2,532 volumes. It has small conchelogical and geological cabinets, a few maps, and several hundred coins of small value. 100 volumes were added in 1848. A wooden building was erected for the use of the institution in 1846-'47, containing a lecture-room, library-room, -and museum-the cost, about $5,000. The library-room is 49 feet by 24, and 12 feet high. It is arranged in alcoves, and capable of holding 10,000 volumes. Opened daily from 1I to 5 p. m., and on Saturday evenings from 6 to 9. Shareholders pay two dollars per annum, others three dollars per annum, for the use of the books. During the years 1847 and 1848, 5,230 books were taken out each year. William Mitchell, president. NEWTON Library of the Theological Seminary-6,000 vols.-Founded in 1825. Contains 6,000 volumes. All persons connected with the institution are entitled to the use of the library. The librarian has discretionary power in regard to lending books to other persons. A catalogue was published in 1833, in 12mo. The Seminary belongs to the Baptist denomination. PLYMOUTH. The Old Colony Pilgrim Society was formed 9th of November, 1819, for the purpose of commemorating the landing of the pilgrims upon the rock of Plymouth, of cherishing the memory of their virtues and sufferings, and of preserving such well-authenticated relices as could then be gathered. In 1824 a monumental edifice was erected by the society. It is of unwrought split granite, 70 feet in length by 40 in width, and is two stories in height. It has a handsome Doric portico. The whole expense of the building and appurtenances was about $15,000. In the edifice a room is set apart for a library and a cabinet of curiosities. It has as yet but a small number of volumes. It has also some manuscripts relative to our early history. The cabinet contains a large number of curiosities of great interest. [See History of the Pilgrim Society, by W. Cogswell, in the American Quarterly Register for August, 1838, pp. 82-90.] ROXBURY. Atheneum Library-5,000 vols.-The Roxbury Athenaeum was founded May 1, 1848. The library contains about 5,000 bound volumes, andi 39 [120] about 4,000 pamphlets, and, say, 40 maps and charts, and 100 engravings. The first year, $1,500 were expended for the library; the second year, $600. There is a permanent fund of $4,000, yielding about $250 per annum. Many books have been received by donation. The library is open every day from 8 o'clock to 11 a. m., and from 3 to 5 p. m. The price of a share is twenty-five dollars. Annual subscribers pay four dollars. Three books may be taken out at a time by any proprietor or subscriber. Over 4,000 were taken out in 1849. A catalogue, 250 pages 8vo., wasprinted in 1849. Benjamin Kent, librarian. SALEM.:The Atheneumr Library — 11,000 vols. -" The Salem Athenaeum, incorporated in 1810,- was formed by the union of the Social and Philosophical Libraries. "'In the year 1760, a number of gentlemen signed a covenant for the formation of a library in Salem, to be called the'Social Library.' The number of shares at the commencement was thirty-two, at five guineas per share. This number was afterwards increased by the accession of new members. The library was first deposited in the brick school-house in School street, and there continued till 1786, when it was removed to the new middle school-house, now the centre school-house, in Washington street. The brick school-house was taken down to erect on or near its site the court-house; and this last building was also taken down in 1839 for the accommodation of the Eastern Railroad Company. The library was afterwards removed to the Central Building, Central street, where it continued till the union and the formation of the Athenaeum. "From the year 1775 to 1784, no meetings were held; and the interest which was before manifested in the success of the library was paralyzed by the unsettled state of the country during the Revolution. At the restoration of peace, the attention of the proprietors was again directed to the state of the library. All fines, forfeitures, &c., that had been incurred during the above-mentioned period, were cancelled, and it was determined to begin anew. A fresh impulse; thus imparted, rendered its further progress successful. In 1797 an act of incorporation was obtained. In 1809 a catalogue was printed. " During the revolutionary war, the vessel on board of which a part of the library of the celebrated Dr. Richard Kirwan* was shipped for transportation across the Irish Channel was captured by an American privateer. These books were brought into Beverly and sold. A company of gentlemen, consisting of the Rev. M. Cutler, LL. D., of Hamilton; Rev. J. Willard, D. D., LL. D., and Joshua Fisher, M. D., of Beverly; Rev. T. Barnard, D. D., Rev J. Prince, LL. D., E. A. Holyoke, M. D., LL. D., and Dr. J. Orne, of Salem, &c., became the purchasers; and thus was laid the foundation of the'Philosophical Library.' An offer of remuneration was afterwards made to Dr. Kirwan, who generously declined it, expressing his satisfaction that his valuable library had found. so useful a destination. Rev. Joseph Willard was the librarian from the commencemrent till " Dr, Kirwan, a chemical philosopher, was born in Ireland about the middle of the last cen. tury, and died in 1812. His principal works are,'An E-say on the Constitution of Acids,''El. ements of Mineralogy,' in two vols. 8vo., and a work on logic, published in 1809.-Penny Cy4iopmdia, art. Kiewam" [ 12 ] 40 his removal to;Cambridge, in December, 1781,: to enter upon the duties of president of Harvard University. The Rev. Dr. Prince was then appointed his,successor, and continued in office till the union, in 1810. The late N. Bowdiitch, LI. D., when a young man, was enabled, through the kindness of the proprietors, to pursue his studies under very favorable au. spices, by having free access to this library, which contained many important scientific books. In order to repay the debt of gratitude which he felt he had incurred, he left in his will, made fifty years afterwards, the sum of one thousand dollars for the use of the Salem Athenmum. "'At the formation of the Athenzeum, the books were deposited in the rooms occupied by the Social Library. In April, 1815, they were removed to rooms in Essex Place. In 1825 they were again removed to the rooms over the Salem Bank; and finally, in the spring of 1841, to the present spacious hail in Lawrence Place, recently fitted for their reception. The present number of shares is ninety-seven. Number of volumes in the library, 9,000. They have been principally obtained by the sale of shares, and by annual assessments " The library increases at an average rate of 250 volumes per annum. About $400 are annually appropriated for the purchase of books. There is a permanent fund for the increase of the library yielding about $150 a year. There have been several catalogues printed. Catalogue of the Social Library, 1809 -- Svo. 42 pages. Do do Salem Athenaurn 1811 - - Svo. 72 Do do do do 1818 - 8vo. 77 " Do do do do 1826 - Svo. 95 Do do do do 1842 - - Svo. 171 " Supplement to the same 1849 - - Svo. 13 The catalogue of 1842, by Thomas Cole, esq., consists of two partsthe first, of 93 pages, contains the titles of the books, systematically arranged; the second (pp. 95-171) a list of about 1,600 pamphlets' inserted alphabetically under the names of their respective authors. A short account of each author, as far as could be ascertained, is affixed, noticing the year of his birth and death, the college or university at which he was graduated, the principal places of residence, occupation, &c. It is skillfhlly and accurately prepared. The library is open every day, except Sundays, fromn o'c1ok a. m. till sunset. Proprietors and their fanilies, also settled clergymen of the city and neighboring towns, are entitled to the use of the books. Proprietors have the liberty to introduce strangers as readers. No record is kept of the number thus introduced. Charles J. Whipple, librarian. The library at present contains about 11 000 volumes. The pamp hlets: about 2,000 in, number, forming a very valuable collection, are mostly bound in volnumes. This is not only an excellent library for popular use, but it contains an unusually large proportion of works of standard value. Early theological and scientific works, and the transactions of learned societies, are more fully represented than in most libraries of this kind. The later additions have been well selected, and mostly in the departments of modern history, biography, voyages and travels, and general.English literature. Library of the Essex Institute-2,522 vols.-This society was inco-. *See introductory remarks to the catalogue, 1842. 41 120 ] porated in 1848, and formed by the union of the Essex Historical Society (incorporated in 1821) and the Essex County Natural History Society, (incorporated in 1836.) The library contains 2,522 volumes, 20 MSS., 25 maps, 30 paintings or engravings of the former presidents of the Historical Society, and some of the worthies of New England, a few coins, a good collection:of objects of natural history, in the several departments of nature, a fbw Indian relics, &c. For the last ten years about 250 volumes and 350 pamphlets have been added annually, and principally by donation. For the same period about $100 per annumr have been expended in the purchase of books. The room is accessible at all times to members of the society who may take out books. A considerable number of persons visit the library daily for the purpose of consulting the books. Henry M. Brooks, librarian. Library of the!Mechanics' Institute-3,000 vols.: NOTE.-For the following additional information respecting public libraries in Salem we are indebted to Dr. Henry Wheatland, of that city: The East India Marine Society has a library containing 300 volumes, some 20 or 30 of which are manuscript journals of sea voyages, &c. The museumr belonging to this society is one of the most valuable and interesting in the country. Charles M. Endicott, president. This society, whose membership is confined to those who have doubled Cape Horn and the Cape of Good Hope, as masters of vessels, was formed in 1799,:and incorporated in 180)1. A catalogue of the museum, &c., was printed in 1831, (178 pp. Svo. ) -The LEssex Southern District Medical Society, formed in 1805, consists of those members of the Medical Society residing in Salem and the other towns in the southern section of the county. The library contains 1,000 volumes, and is located in the Lyceum Building. Dr. E. B. Peirson, librarian. T/e Essex Agricultural Society, formed in 1818 under the auspices of the late Hon. T. Pickering, its first president, has within a few mcnths past purchased the agricultural library of the late Henry Colman, containing 525 volumes. These, with a few volllmes previously in its possession, will make the library contain 650 volumes. It is deposited in a room in the City Hall, Salem. John W. Proctor, of Danvers, president. The Saemn Evazngeical Library, founded in 1818, contains 1,400 volumes. Rev. B. Emerson, 1). D., librarian. Besides these, three religious societies possess libraries containing together 2,500 volunles; the public school libraries contain 3,600 volumes; the Sabbath school libraries 8,000 volumes-making an aggregate, ineluding the Athenaeum, the Mechanics' Library, and the library of the Essex Institute, of 34,192-volumes in the public libraries of the city.'WILLIAMSTowN'. Williams College Libraries-10,559 vols.-The college library was founded contemporaueously with the college in 1793, and contains at present 5,993 volumes, the charts of the United States coast survey, and a very few coins. The yearly average increase for the last ten years has been 188 volumes. Yearly expenditure, $190. A brick building was erected for the accommodation of the library, by Hon. Amos Lawrence, of [120] 42 Boston, in 1847, at a cost of $7,000. It is called Lawrence Hall. In form it is a regular octagon, each side 19 feet, and is found to be very convenient. A catalogue, 51 pages 8vo., wasprinted:in 1845. The first was printed in 1794, others in 1812 and 1828. The library is opened one hour every Wednesday and Saturday during term time. The students of the two lower classes pay 40 cents each, per term, for the use of books; those of the two upper classes pay 50 cents each. Books are lent out to clergymen and other literary gentlemen, even at a distance from the college, at the discretion of the librarian. About 800 are taken out annually. Prof. John Tatlock, librarian. Besides the college library, are the libraries of two societies of undergraduates of the college: The Philologian Society Library - - - 2,416 vols. Philotechnian Society Library - - - 2,150 " As the building erected for the library of this college is one of the few, in the planning of which the internal convenzicerces have been primarily consulted, it may not be amiss to give in this place a somewhat minute description of it. It was required to erect a building for a library of 6,000 volumes, capable of accommodating 30,000, and of being extended so as to hold 50,000, or more, without interfering with the part first built. The edifice was to be of brick, substantial and tastefiul, and not to cost more than $7,000. These, it must be confessed, are somexwhat difficult conditions to meet. The building is in form a regular octagon, each side 19. feet, the whole height 40 feet. The elevation presents a principal story of the Ionic order, with arched windows, one on each side, and plain pilasters. There is a rusticated basement 13 feet in height. The entrance is by a single door in one face of the octagon. This door opens upon a vestibule, from which rises a circular staircase conducting to the library story, and intended, when the increase of the library may demand it, to be carried up to the galleries. Leaving, fbr the present, the basement, we will notice the principal story. Tifis is occupied as the library. It is lighted from the sides and the top; is cheerful, airy, and elegant. In the centre is a circular colonade of 8 Ionic pillars, from which springs a dome, surmounted by a lantern. The cases for the books are to be placed against the walls, and radiating from the columns to the corners of the octagon, thus dividing the room into 8 alcoves and a circular area int the centre. One of these alcoves contains a circular staircase. The shelves at first built are only 7 feet high, and will contain say 10,000 volumes. When more shelves are required, a light iron gallery is to be laid upon the top of the cases, and another set of shelves, also 7 feet in height, is to be placed upon the first. Tihis gallery is reached by a continuation of the circular staircase, one staircase being sufficient for so compact a library. The room will admit three such tiers of shelves. Thus the apartment will hold 30,000 volumes; all of which may be reached without the use of movable ladders. T'he librarian's desk is in the centre; from it he. can see, by simply turning round, every person and every book in the room. The basement is divided into rooms corresponding in shape to the alcoves of the library. One of these divisions and the central area form together a lobby communicating with the several rooms. Another of the divisions is occupied by the stairs.'Two others form a room for the meeti'lgs of the trustees and for a reading-room of periodicals. The division 438 i[ 120 ] of the octagon directly behind the stairs, serves as an entrance to the cellar and as a lumber-room. The first room on the left of the lobby is the "packing-room," into which all boxes of books are to be first brought, to be unpacked and examined. All books to be bound, or to be sent away for any purpose, should be invoiced and packed here. A dumb-waiter communicates with the library above. Next to the packing-room, and opening into it, is the librarian's room; next to that a room for engravings, mlanuscripts, and other articles which require to be kept apart from the principal collection and guarded with special care. WORCESTER. Library of the American Antiquarian Society — 1 18,C,0 vols -The American Antiquarian Society was incorporated October 24, 1812. The present number of volumes in the library somewhat exceeds 18,000. Its manuscripts, though of much interest to the student of New England history, cannot readily be enumerated. Many maps, charts, engravings, medals, &c., belong to the collection. The average annual increase, for the last ten years, has been 404 books and 1,048 pamphlets. The accessions to the library are chiefly donations. There is no fund solely for the purchase of books, and no regular appropriation. The general funds of the society amount to $30,038 33. About $20) were expended in 1848. A brick building was erected in 1820 at a cost of about $10,000. It consists of a central edifice 50 by 40 feet, and two stories high, with wings each 28 by 20 feet, also two stories high. The only catalogue which has been published was printed in 1837, and contains 582 pages royal 8vo. The regular hours for keeping the library open are from 9 a. m. to 1 p. inm., and from 2 to 5 p. m.; Saturday afternoons excepted. The library is free to the public for use on the premises. But books are not lent out, except that, by a special act of the council in each case, permission may be had to take books from the town, a bond being given for their safe return. Itis impossible to say how many persons consult the library annually. The number is very large. Samuel F. Haven, librarian. The preface to the catalogue contains the following sketch of the history of this library, which, from its public interest, we insert in full: The library of the American Antiquarian Society owes its origin to the sound judgment and sagacious foresight, not less than to the public spirit and zeal for the diffusion of knowledge, which marked the character of Isaiah Thomas, the venerable founder of the institution. The important contributions made by Dr. Thomas, both- as an author and a printer, to the cause of good learning, need not here be repeated; they already form a part of our public history. From his press much of the early literature of the country was supplied, and to his pen was it occasionally indebted for suggestions and illustrations, in the form of notes, prefaces and appendices, giving increased value to the publications which issued under his auspices. His " EHisiory of Printing,'" written after his rtirement from business, was the fruit of his past industry and research, and is a standard work on the shelves of our principal libraries. During his active period of life, while engaged in the publication of books, to an extent which kept nearly twenty presses in constant operation, and at the same time in conducting a magazine and newspaper of wide circulation, Mr. Thomas necessarily collected many books, pamphlets5 acid I'2O] a44 papers, which already constituted a library of considerable magnitude. To this he subsequently made additions with a view to the preparation of his History. After the publication of that work, he justly considered the library which he had been gradually gathering, as a treasure of too much value to society to be hoarded in private while he lived, and perhaps scattered to the four winds at his decease. He was led by this consideration to propose an association for collecting and preserving the materials of history, to whose charge he might intrust his literary treasures, for the use of the present and future generations, and with the fond expectation that they would be the embryo of a collection hereafter to rival the famous libraries of Europe. His design was submitted to his friends, with whose advice and assistance'he matured a plan of organization for the American lAntiquarian Society, and procured an act of incorporation October 24, 1812. He was elected the first president, and continued in that office till his decease, April 4, 1831, at the age of 82. Immediately after the incorporation of the society, Mr. Thomas bestowed upon it his library, then composed of about 3,000 bound volumes, a great number of pamphlets, and a series of newspapers far more complete than any other existing in America. Soon afterwards a donation of 900 volumes was received through the hands of Mrs. Hannah Crocker, a descendant of the Matherfamily, (in part a gift from herself, and partly a purchase by Mr. Thomas,) being the remains of the library formerly belonging to Increase and Cotton Mather, the most ancient in Massachusetts, if not in the United States. A valuable addition was also made to the library and cabinet by the legacy of Rev. William Bentley, D. D., of Salem. The books bequeathed by Dr. Bentley amounted to several hundred volumes, principally German editions and in the German tongue, besides a collection of oriental manuscripts, including a splendid illuminated copy of the Koran, and several commentaries thereon. Our munificent founder continued to cherish the child of his old age with truly parental assiduity. Every year he made liberal donations of books and rare curiosities, some of which were procured by him at considerable expense. The whole amount of his donations in books was between 7,000 and S,000 bound volumes, a large number of unbound tracts,.and the greater proportion of all the newspapers now belonging to the society. Hie was alt the charge of' printing the first volume of Transactions, published in 1820. In the same year he erected the edifice now occupied by the society, and gave it for their exclusive use. And to crown his benefactions and place the existence and usefulness of the institution beyond the reach of ordinary vicissitude, hle endowed. it, at his decease, with a fund, which, if not equal to all its warnts, is ample compared with many other institutions, and will probably enable it hereafter to do good service' in the republic of letters. There are many other benefactors of the society entitled to their gratitude, among whom it may be permitted to the committee charged with the publication of the catalogie to name the Hon. Thomas L. Winthrop, our present president, whose solicitude for the interests of' the institution has been unceasing, and who has enriched the library with many volumres of great price and rarity. Mr. Thomas Wallcut, of Boston, has been the donor of a large collection of old books and pamphlets, especially suited to the objects and taste of the antiquary. The names of all donors, even of a single volume or tract, or any article of curiosity, are entered on our records, 45 [1.20] and will be transmitted, on the list of our patrons, to those who may come after us. Soon after the incorporation of the society, the national government made provision for supplying us with copies of the public laws and documents. The legislatures of several of the States have generously made a similar provision. The government of Massachusetts furnishes two sets of all the publications ordered by the legislature, including the statutes. and judicial reports. These documents compose a valuable portion of our library; and should the example' be imitated by the other States of the.'Union, a collection of public documents would soon be formed, whose: importance to the statesman and the historian cannot be too highly estimated. The present [1837] number of bound volumes in the library is about 12,000, including upwards of 1,20- volumes of pamphlets, and more. than 700 bound volumes of newspapers. There are about 500 pamphlets yet unbound, exclusive of duplicates, and. nearly 1,000 volumes of unbound newspapers. Nearly all the American papers printed before the Revolution are in this collection, and of some of them a more complete series is here to be found than is anywhere else in existence. The manuscripts of the society are of considerable value, especially that portion of them which relates to the early ecclesiastical history of New England. They embrace many of the papers ef the Mathers-Richard, Increase, Cotton, and Samuel; those of John Cotton, minister of the first church in Boston, and of John Cotton, the second, minister of Plymouth. There are many other manuscripts which have already been consulted with advantage by authors, and others ewho have had occasion to investigate the venerable records of the past.- The lapse of years will add to their importance; and those time-defaced pages, which are now merely glanced at as objects of curiosity, will hereafter be studied with an intense and eager interest. The cabinet of the society is not yet of great extent. The articles- of most interest are those illustrating the manners of our fathers, and the weapons of -war,* articles of apparel, and domestic utensils of the aborigines of North America. Specimens of this kind, of American origin, are more to be desired by an American Society of' Antiquaries, than any articles however rare or antique, brought hither from the ransacked:do. mains of the Old World. The cabinet contains a -collection of coins, comparatively small, but amounting to nearly 2,000 pieces, of which, however, many are duplicates.:Among them is a considerable number of coins of the Roman Empire, and a.few said to be of still more remote antiquity. It is believed there are specimens of nearly all the pieces of money ever struck in the present:United States. The library and cabinet of the institution are deposited in a building, in' the construction and occupation of which great precaution has been taken for the security of the treasures accumulated within its walls. The second volume of "Archwologia Americana" has lately issued from the press. The long delay which took- place between the appearance of the first and of the second volume is to be imputed, not to the want of materials for the publication, or' inclination to spread them before the piublic, but to the want of sufficient funds, which have but recently come into the possession of the society. The foregoing sketch of the origin of the society, its objects, history, [120 46 and present condition, it is hoped by the committee will not be deemed an unsuitable introduction to this volume. A catalogue of the library has long been a desideratum, not only to the members of the society, but to all who sought access to their archives. Without such an index, a great portion of our volumes were no better than sealed books to every inquirer who had not time or patience to seek, among the undigested mass, for such dates and facts as he desired to ascertain. The catalogue now published is almost wholly the work of the late lamented librarian, Christopher C. Baldwin, whose decease the society deplores as an irreparable loss. It was prepared by him with great care and labor, and is a monument of his untiring industry. It has been completed and brought up to the present date, by the acting librarian, Maturin L. Fisher, esq. Its accuracy, as far at least as regards the bound books, has been since subjected to the test of a careful comparison of its titles with the correspondent volumes on the shelves of the library. It is in the alphabetical form, which has been generally adopted by librarians, as more simple in its arrangement and more convenient for reference, than a systematic index. The plan pursued was to give the name of the author when known, and where the work is anonymous, briefly to state the subject. Each letter of the alphabet has been paged by itself, to facilitate the insertion of future additions under the respective letters, and thus render a new edition of the whole catalogue unnecessary, at least for several years. Our list of books, it will be observed, contains an unusual proportiori of tracts, for which reason it is swollen to a size somewhat disproportionate to the solid contents of the library. But we prize this large collection of pamphlets, as a most important part of those materials for history which it is the great object of the society to preserve; and if the list was confined to these alone, we should judge it of sufficient consequence to warrant a publication. A written catalogue of manuscripts, very minute in its titles and details, is now in a course of preparation, and will be kept in the library for the inspection of all who may have occasion to consult it. By order of the Council: JOHN PARK. The catalogue of this invaluable collection will ere long be reprinted, with the additions since the time of the first printing. Prepared by the present learned and able librarian, it will be a very important contribution to the means of investigating the early history of New England. This society has taken rneasures to commence the project of stereotyping by titles, so that each library in the country, while it secures a permanent catalogue of its own treasures; will help form the general printed and stereotyped catalogue of all the libraries. This plan, proposed some years ago at the Smithsonian Institution, has received a new impulse through the favor and support which has been accorded it by the Antiquarian Society. I am indebted to Mr. Haven for the following additional particulars respecting this library: " A prominent feature in the collection is the Mather Libraiy, consisting of about 1,000 volumes, and containing probably the greater portion of the books owned by Increase and Cotton Mather, as well as those of Richard, the father of Increase. The first two were emphatically the scholars of 47 [ 1o ] their day, in New England; and the works they collected fairly represent the literature and learning of their time, whether historical, theological, or metaphysical, or relating to the, natural sciences. This is perhaps the oldest private library ill the country that has been transmitted from one generation to another. It was obtained from Mrs. Hannah Mather Crocker, grand-daughter of Cotton Mather, and only remaining representative of the family in Boston-partly by gift and partly by purchase. It is called in the records'The remains of the ancient library of the Mathers,' and was considered by Isaiah Thomas as'the oldest library in New England, if not in the United States.' With these books was obtained a large collection of tracts and manuscripts belonging to the Mathers: the latter consisting of sermons,'diaries, correspondence, and comnion-places. Many of the tracts are political, and relate to the period of the Revolution and the Commonwealth in England. Taken together, this Mather collection is unique, and of great historical value. "The pamphlets form another prominent and somewhat peculiar feature. They undoubtedly contain a greater number and variety of fugitive publications, such as illustrate the character and spirit of the time, than can be found elsewhere in the country. Those of ancient date are numerous and curious. " The newspapers begin with the first number of the first paper printed in the United States; and, though the series is not perfect, it is, taking the whole period together, the most perfect that has been preserved. The collection of almanacs is. also, the most complete and curious that can probably be found in the country. The manuscripts are chiefly such as illustrate New England history. Many are theological; some are treatises and commentaries that have not been printed. There are many letters written by or addressed to the original settlers and their immediate descendants. There are a few diaries, and an untold quantity of manuscript sermons. Besides those of an older period, a mass of military papers relating to the American Revolution belong to the society, which, at the request of the State government, have been deposited in the State House at Boston. "' As to paintings and engravings, besides the family portraits of the Mathers, five in number, the society possesses an original portrait of Winthrop (received from the late William Winthrop, of Cambridge,) together with the'stone pot, tipped and covered with a silver lydd,' containing the genealogy of the direct line in which that heir-loom, the pot, had descended. This stone pot is referred to in Savage's edition of Winthrop's journal. We have also portrait of Endicott, Higginson, John Rogers, the martyr; Governors Burnett and Leverett; Hannah Adamls; our late presidents, Isaiah Thomas and Thomas L. Winthrop; Mr. Baldwin, late librarian; Charles Paxton, by (Copley; Judge Chandler, &c.; and a very considerable collection of engraved heads in frames, bequeathed by the late Dr. Bentley, of Salem.'" There are also many curious and rare old maps and charts." Library of the College of the Holy Cross-4,220 vols. —Founded in 1843; contains about 4,000 volumes, besides many lmaps, charts, engravings and pieces of music, and 650 coins and medals. It is opened every day. The professors of the college, and such of the students as have spe. cial leave from the president, are entitled to the use oJ the books. Books are occasionally lent out to persons: at a distance from the college. J. O'Callaghan, librarian. [ 1 ] 48 A society of students possesses a library of 220 volumes. The Library of the Mechanics' Institute contains over 1,000 volumes, nearly all of them choice scientific works recently selected. About $300 per annum are now applied to the increase of the library. The Lyceum Library contains 1,300 volumes, selected with care. The sum expended for books last year was $100, which is perhaps about the average annual amount. The Library qf the Manual Labor High School, established by the Baptists in 1832, contains about 500 volumes. PUBLIC SCHOOL LIBRARIES IN MASSACHIUSETTS. From the twvelfth report of the secretary of the board of education, presented November, 1848, we learn that the number of volumes in the school libraries was 91,539, and their estimated value $42,707. " It would be difficult," adds the secretary, "to mention any wray in which a million of dollars could be more beneficially expended than in supplying: the requisite apparatus and libraries for our common schools." There are sixty-seven incorporated academies in the State. many of which possess libraries. Some few of these have already been noticed. Most of the religious societies possess also Sunday school libraries. The number of volumes it is difficult to estimate. It must, however, be very large. These books exert a powerfull influence in literature no less than in religion and morals. Social libraries exist in about two-thirds of the towns in the State. Some of these have been noticed, but only a small part of all that exist. It will be a work of time to gather exact information respecting the whole of them. By chapter 52, statutes of 184S8, the State legislature authorizes the city of Boston to establish a public library, and to expend $5,000 a' year for its support. Mr. Bigelow:, the present mayor of the city, has presented $1,000. Hon. Edward Everett has given a valuable collection of public documents, comprising more than 1,000 volumes. Many books have also been received from Mr. Vattemare. Mr. Winthrop, present Senator from this State, has also presented the documents of the general government for about ten years. R-HO I)E ISIi A.ND. NiEWPORT. Redwood Lib?'ary —4,000 vols.-A catalogue; (95 pages 8vo.) of this library was published in 1843.' The preface contains the following historical sketch of this venerable institution, which has been thought to possess sufficient general interest to warrant-its publication' withl some omissions, in this place: " The Redwood Library: and Athenmuin owes its origin to a literary and philosophical society, which was established in Newport in the year 1730. This society was composed of some of the most respectable men of the town of Newport, at that period one of the most remarkable in the * A catalogue had also been printed in 1764, in octavo. 49.;120 ] -AAmrican coIonies-. for its.wea arning, and public spirit. Its origin is connected with a splendid name in literature -and:philosophy. The celebrated Bishop Berkeley_, who resided at this- time on Rhode Island,;encouraged the formation:of this instittstion, and participated in its discussions. He was the intimate friend of some of its members; aand the e-harm of his conversation, undoubtedlgy, gave a deligltful interest to its meetings. Berkeley resided'on RhoCde Island fiom January, 1729, to ~September, 1731; -and from frequent intercosurse with these vigorousminded. men,. derived that knowledge of American character which prompted his muse, to utter the prophletic declaration,'Westward the star of e.fihpire takes its way.' " At that period, the advantages of the association depended on a sys temn of weektly debates and conversationsns upon questions g utility or interest. The formation- of a library was, sutbsequenttly co'tdered by them,as one of the most powerful means of accomplishing their original purpose,' the promnotion of knowledge and virtue'." The system of debates was gradually laid aside, and'the energies of -the society were solely directed fo the collection'of vatuable books..: Had the establishment of a library constituted, originally, an olject of the society, tihe valuable books give:n by Bishpl Berkeley to Yale College and Harvard University, on his departure from Newport, in-1731, would undouhtedly have been presented by?him t this. institution) to individual n members of' which he was strongly attached&." "In the' accomnplishm nent o f this new o'bject, a great inrpulse was given by Abraham.Redwood, -esq., who, inl 1747, placed at the disposal of the society S500 sterling,'for the purchase of standard:books in London. To give permanence. and usefulness to his donation, Mr. Redwood enjoined on the society the duty of erecting an edifice as a depository forsuch book:. as might be. purchased. In pursuance of their object, a charter of incor:poration was obtained in 1147, and the society, in honor of their most litt-:oral benefactor, asumed the name of the Redwvood Library Companry. For the erection of a library building, five thousand poulnds were almost immediately subscribed by differelt citizens of the town. Heny Collins,> esq., proved a noble coadjutor of Mr. Redwood, and presented, in June, -748, to the conmpany, the lot o: land then called Bowling Green1, on which the present library edifice now stands.'' The library bAuilding, Vwhich is a beautiful, specimen of the Doric order, was commenced iln 174S and c6mpleted in 1750. The plan was furnished' by Joseph Harrison,t esq., assistant architect of Blenheim House, England. He also superintende'd the erection of the edifice, -ith-the comrnmittee of the company, consisting of Samuel Wiclkham, Henr y'Collins, and John T illin glhast. The master-builders were, Wing Spoonerl, Samuel Green, Thomas Melville and Israel Chapman. The principal front is ornamented with a portico of four Doric columns, seventeen feet- n height, and projecting nine feet from the walls ofthe building.' Henry Collins was a merchant. of New3port, distinguis!d for his wealth, librality and taste. H1-e employed'Smibert, who came out with Dean Berkeley, to take the portraiis of -Callender, Clap,'Hitchcock, and Beikeley. Smibert was an excellent- artist, and had been previously patronized, while at Florence, by the Grand Duke of Tuscany. The portrait of Henry Collins,, taken by Smibert, is supposed to be in the possession of some branch of the Flagg family; but thc proprietors of the librarxy ave not, as et been enab}ed to obtain it."" tiarrison was architct of the beautiful little Episcopel church in Cambridge." [ 150]' 50 The edifice consists of a main building, and two small wingsv oi each side, ranging in a line parallel with the west end of the building. The Wings furnish two rooms, of about twelve feet square. The principal library room, occupying the whole of., the main building, is thirty-seven feet long, twenty six feet broad, ald nineteen feet in -height. The edifice is lighted by seven whole windows and three attic windows in the east and west ends." T lb bi he o i I'' "' The library building, on the outside, is worked in imitation of rustic, and is adorned by-the ornaments appropriate to the Doric order. The whole, building is supported by a substantial foundation, raised several feet from the ground. "The *t meeting of the Redwood Library Company, after their incorporation, was held in the. Council Chamber, in Newport, on the last Wednesday of September, 1747.'9 " At a meeting of the company in the Council Chamber, on the 4th of July, 1748, the directors presented a catalogue of the books which they proposed to purchase in London. The'liberal share gi:ven in this catalogue to the ancient classics, evn'ced a disposition to provide for the' scholar the objects of his favorite study. In these' times' of customary appeal to direct utility, we fear a less liberal expenditure wouTld be allowed for the gratification of classical taste. This catalogue, with Mr.E Redwood's bils of exchange, was sent immediately to Mr. Johl Thomlinson, esq., of London, who appears to have' satisfactorily executed the' commission of the society, He was elected an honorary member in 1749.9 " In 1750 a tax of twelve hundred pounds was assessed on the mnembers of the company, to defray the expense of completing the bnuilding. " In 1755 the Rev. Ezra Stiles was admitted an honorary member of the society.- HBis distinction as a scholar and theologian, connected with his exertions in behalf of the library, justifies, some allusion to his character,, in an historical'sketch of the institution. The Redwood Library,'at the time of his settlement in Newport, contained about I,500 voltlmes,of standard books. The classical and theological departments were the,most valuable, and constituted the principal attraction, which determined Dr. Stiles to fix his residence in Newport. He remained in Newport -twenty years, and during the greater portion of the time officiated as libr.arian of the company. Haxving constant access to this valutable co'llecti-on of books, he drew from it, by assiduous study, his great and various learning. He held an extensive correspondence with European scholars,.and the principal object of that correspondence was to illustrate and per-.fect those researches and investigations in philosophy, history, antiquities,and physical science, to which his mind had been prompted by the peru-:al of books which he found- on our shelves. His zeal for the diffusion of knowledge led him'o solicit for the library valuable works fromwn European authors. Many, of these works, obtained through his instrumentality, are still preserved in the library. The copy of Montanus' Hebrew The e Vings were not in the original dcsign. They de'ace rather than adorn the edifice. 51: 120] Bible and Dictionary, now belonging to, the library, enabled him to perfect his knowledge of the Hebrewx language; and a folio: copy of Horner $till bears the marks of his profound study, in the form of Greek annotations, in his own handwriting. He was one of the most eloquent advzocates of liberty in the colonies, before the Revolution. The late Dr. t Chan ning says of him:'To the influence of this distinguished iman, in the cirle in which I was. brought up, I may owe in part the indignation which I feel towards every invasion of human rights.'In my earliest:years I regarded no human being with equal revereence.' His rare learn-,ing, eloquence, and goodness, uniformly supported by tradition, have re. ceived, of late, the attestation of great names. The eloquent eulogy ~pronounced upon this gifted and extraordinary man, by Chancellor Kent, will preserve for many generations the memory of his attaiftlnents, genius and virtue.' In 1770 the proprietors, to evilce their grateful sense. of Mr. Redwvood's exertions for the advancement of the institution, requested him to sit ft)r his piicture, the expense of which was to be defrayed from the company's treasury. After repeated solicitations, in 1773 Mr. Redwood gave his conseat, agreeably to the wishes of the company. David Cheeseborough, Thomas Verlion, and- John Bours, esqs., were appointed a committee.to carry the vote ofrthe society into execution. This painting was probably execated, but it:is doubtful. whether it was ever placed in the library. The beautiful portrait which at the present time adorns the:walls of the library room was copied by Charles B. King, esq., from an ariginal portrait of Mr. Redwood, and was generously presented by him to the society, in 1817. " No meetings of the Library Company were held from 1778 to 1785. During-the Revoution-, the towln of Newport xyas occupied by various armies.'The disastrous state of the town compelled many of the best -itize ns to leave their homes, and to seek shelter for themselves and families.in the more secure retreats of the cofintry. The tumults of war and revolution interrupted the peaceful pursuits of literature, and exerted a chilling influence on the growth of knowledge, and the prosperity of ~institutions like that which-forms the subject of our sketch.. During the war, the library building is said to have-been defaced, and many of the'books carried, off~' To the honor of Gen. Prescott, it is said that, on be4ng infarmed of the exposed state of the library, lie stationed a military giuard to protect it from further injury and depredation. ".' At a meeting of the company, held at Mr. Townsend's hotel, on;the 14th of October, 1785-it being the first meeting after the conclusion,;of the war of the Revolution- the following gentlemen were chosen officers of the institution: lIon.'Abraham iRedwood, Stephep Ayrault, William Vernon, John Malbotle, Jonathan Eastoif, Nicholas P. Tillinghast, Jacob Richardson, and Roberti Stevens, Directors;- William Chanling, Scretary.; Christopher Ellery, Librarian; Stephen Ayrault, Treasur&er. Several important objects engaged the attention of the society: the principal were the remission of the annual tax from 1778 to 1785, the repair of the library edifice, the recovery of missing books, and the formation of a catalogue of the library-.: William Vernon-, Henry Marchant, and William Channing, esqs., were appointed to apply to the htonorable General "Mr. Redwood resided, durinrg the revolutionary war, on his farm in Mendon,,iIass." [120 52 Assembly, at their next sessions for a renewal of the charter of the eorn pany, with alterations and amendments. "' The society experienced a great misfortiue in the death of Mr. Redwood, the founder of the library, March 6, 1788. Beneficent objects seemed to have occupied the mind of Mr. Redwood, as will aappear fro the following obituary, notice, taken from the Newport Herald, March 13, 178S:'Last Saturday morning died the Hon. Abraham Redwood, in the 79th year of his age. He was blessed with an ample fortune and a liberal spirit, which prompted him to encourage usefil learning and reieve the distresses of mankind. IXe founded the library in this town. I-e subscribed largely to a college to be built in this State, on condition that it should be established in the county of Newport. He subscribed t'500 sterling towards a university proposed to be erected in this town; and he offered the same sum to the Society of Friends, of which he was a. imember, to endow a school in this place for the instruction of Friends' children. His less public acts of generosity will be gratefully remenbered by those on whom they were conferred; and the poor will never firget that Abraham, Redwood was their constant friend alnd benefactor.' It is understood that Mir. Redwood removed to Newport from Antiguay where he possessed large and valuable estates.' After his death, the public interest in the piosperity of the: institution seems to have declined. A period of great success in the commerce of the town was allowed to pass away without bringing new resources for the accomplishment of the objects of the institution. - In fact, its very existence, at one time,- depended on the resolution and efforts of a few individnals. T'he late D)r. hanning, in a discours delivered in Newport in 1836, alludes to the neglected condition of the library at this period, during which he pursued his studies in this town. Ie says:'I had no professor or teacher to guide me, but I had two noble places of study. One was yonder beautiful edifie, now so frelquiented and so useful as a public library; then so deserted, that I spent day after day, and sometimes week after week, amidst its dusty volumes, witlhost interruption from a single visitor.' -i The public attention was not directed to the importance of the institution till the year 1810, when the society received an accession of spirit and ability by the admission,o f a large number of nexw proprietors. Irn March, 1810, James Ogilvie, esq., visited the town, and delivered several lectures on the advantages of public libraries, which contributed essetatially to awaaken the public to the clairms of the Redwood Library on Itheir generosity and. support. HIe made the society a liberal donation of select and valuable books. Froml- 1810'to the present time, a very respectable interest has been maintained in the institution, and the fi'nds placed at. the disposal of the society have been judiciolusly rmlanaged in accomplishw ing the planls of its founders." The exertions of the late Robert Johnston, esq., in behalf of the institution, demand bonorable meition. By his solicitation, some of the most rare and valuable works in the library were obtained firoom different individuals in Newport and its neighborhood. In 18 S34 he made great efforts to enrich the library with the public records of Efglarid. He succeeded in obtaining eighty-four vol'umes (seventy-two large, folios and twelve octavos) from the r1ords Commissioners and Liord ]Lyndhurst, in conse 53 [ 12o ] qlence of his application to them- through the medium of his -friend: and agent, Thomnras Bland, esq., of London. These volumes, -containing the most valuable materials of English history, were understood to be obtained as a present from the King of Great Britain, on the application of Lord Lyndhurst. As such they will be perpetually preserved in the Redwood Library. "In 1813 Solonmon Southwick, esq.`, of Albany, gave to the library one hundred and twenty acres of land, in the State of New York, for the purpose of advancing the institution, and thereby perpetuating the mremory of Henry Collins, esq., one of its principal founders. "' I 1834 Abraham Redwood, esq., of Dorset Place, Marylebone, England, being desirous of promcting an institution founded by his honored grandfather,. gave to the company the homestead estate, situated in Newport, which he inherited from his father, Jonas Redwood, esq. "Irli 1S37, Baron Hottinguer, a distinguished banker of Paris, who was connected by marriage with the Redwood famlily, presented to the cornpany one thousand francs, for the restoration of the building. " In 1840, the Hon. Christopher G. Champlin bequeathed to the company one hundred dollars. anrd some, valuable books. T'he proprietors are also indebted to the Hon. William C. Gibbs, for his liberality in permitting a free access to a valuable collection of books, at present deposited by him in the library.'"-'he, library room is adorned by several paintings and busts. The beautiful bust of' John Marshall was presented in 1839, by Augustus E. Sillitnan, esq., of New York.. The acknowledgments of the company are due to Charles B. King, esq.-, of Washington, for his:umnerous and valuable donations; among which are the portrait of Columbus and that of Abraham Redwoodg the founder of the library." 7Tle' Mechanics' Library- 1,100 vols.-The Nevport Association of Mechanics and Manufacturers was incorporated in 1792. The library was founded in 1828. The average expenditure for books during the last ten years has been about $50 per annum; the average increase of the library from'30 to 60 volumes. As the society has rapidly increased of' late, the library will hereafter be an object of special attention. There is a fund.of $1,200 belonging to the association, the income of which is applied to various other objects besides the library, which is principally supported by a tax on the members. It is contemplated to erect, so soon as circumstances will allow, a building for public lectures and the library. There is a printed catalogue, but it is very incomplete. Another will be published in the course of the next year. The library is open every Wednesday and Saturday evening from 6 till 9 o'clock. All members of the association, arnd the apprentices of members who have written' orders from their employers, are all(owed to take' out books. About 1,500 volumes are thus }ent each year. Nichols, secretary. PROVIDEN2'CE. Broswn Utiversity Libraries-31,600 vols -Brown University was incorporated in the year 1764. it was originally established in the town of Warren, where, in thie year 1769, the first commencement was celebrated. It was subsequently removed to Providence, where the first college- edifice (University Hall) was erected, in the year'1770. [120) 54 At the period of its removal' to Providence, the college appears to ha'V been destitute of a library, or at least of any collection of books worthy of the name. To supply, as far as possible, this deficiency, the Providence'. Library Company (no w merged in the Providence Athenaeum) tendered the free use of its books to the officers and students of the college-a privilege which was continued several years. The books first obtained for the library were probably procured in England, through the agency of the Reva. Morgan Edwards. In the year, 1768 Mr. Edwards, then in England, was authorized' by the corporation'" to purchase such books as he shall think necessary at this time, not exceeding 20 pounds value." rl'his is the only appropriation, small as it is, which is recorded previously to 1784!, It is probable, however, that Mr. Edwards and the other agents of the college, while soliciting money, received many presents in books; for, in 1776 the college was in possession of a library, which, at the commencement of hostilities in that year, was removed to the country for safe keeping. The college was disbanded December 6, 1776, immediately after the British troops took possession of Newport. From December 7, }776, to; June, 1782, the college building (now University Hall) was occupied, first as a barrack for the American militia, and afterwards as a hospital for the French arnmy, commanded by Count Rochambeau.' On the' return of peace the college edifice was purified and refitted, the library was brought back, and the business of instruction resumed. In a letter concerning the early history of the library, the IIon. Asher Robbins writes:'At the reorganization of the college, in the autumn of 1782, I was appointed to the office of tutor, and took charge of the library as librarian. It was then kept in the east chamber on the second floor of the central building; the voltumes it contained were quite limited in Ilummber-these mostly the primary editions of the works in folio and- quarto..'he precise number I am not able to recollect; my impression is- that it did not exceed two or three hundred. Of the previous history of the library I have no certain knowledge; I believe, however; it was acquired by purchase, through the agency of the Rev. Morgan Edwards, and that it was. imported, after the removal of the college from Warren and -the erection of the college edifice in Providence. "'An addition was made to the library soon after my donnexion with it. At a meeting of the corporation, it was proposed by Mr. John Brown to raise t fund, by subscription, for the purchase of books. To encourage a liberal subscription he told the corporation to subscribe what they would, and to procure what they could by sultscription elsewhere, and that whatever the amount was, he would subscribe an equal sum. He did so; and, besides, made good the subscriptions of those who failed to pay up theirs. I was employed to make out the invoice of the books to be purchased, under the advisement of President Manning, and also, I think, of the clhancellor, Governor Hopkins, who, by-the-by, wxas a very competent adviser on,this subject, being deeply versed in English literature, and an excellent judge of its various merits. The importation was in the course of that year (1783) made by Mr. Nicholas Brown [brother of Mr. John Brown].' In the year 1784 a valuable donation, containing the works of several of the Fathers of the church2 was received from-i the Bristol Education Society in England. 5iS ~~[ 120]'In the same year (1784) the corporation appropriated thre sum of. 350 for the purchase of books. In the succeeding yew, Granville Sharp, esq., presented several of his own, publications, with a set of the works of his grandfather, Dr. John,. Sharp, Archbishop of York. He s ubsequently sent other valuable presents to the libraryv In 1787, the thanks of the corporation were presented to Mr. John Francis (son-in-law of John Brown and father of J. B. Fra.ncis, late Governor of Rhode Island) for a valuable donation of books. Irn the year 1792 Nicholas Brown, then a recent graduate of the institution, and a young,and enterprising merchant,' commenced his benefactions towards the college by the gift of'a law lbrary, containing. about three'hundred and fifty volumres of valuable books, which he had imported from England for that purpose. Ttle'Rev. Isaac Backus, of Middleborough, Mass., au thorfof the. Church History of PNew England, who died in 1806, in the 83d'year of his age and the l6th of his ministry, bequeathed to the college a part of his library. The extenat or value of this bequest it is now impossible to determine, as tio record was made of it at the time. Among the books thus presented, however, there is one which deserves particular mention. It is a copy of Roger Williams's "_.Bloody Tenent yet more Bloody," being the copy originally presented by Wifliams to his friend and fellow-laborer, Dr. John Clarke, On a blank leaf it contains the following words in Roger Williams's handwriting: For his honored and beloved Mr. John Clarke,'an eminent Whitnes of Christ Jesus, ag'st ye bloodie Doctrine of persecution, etc " In. 1S15 Mr. Nicholas Brown gave five hundred dollars for the purchase of books, and }Mrs, Hope Ives presented a copy of Dobson's edition of the Encyclopaedia Britannica. ThJe next, and the mo.st valuable of all the donations to the library which we have tq record, is the legacy of the Rev. William Richards, LL. D., of Lynn, England. Mr. Richards was a native of South Wales. He was many years pastor of the Baptist church at Lynn, where he - died in the year 1818, in the 69th year of his age. Mr. Richards seems to have been a man of considerable learning, particularly in English and Welsh history, and in the Welsh language and literature. His writings are historical, political, and controversial. His most important work is the History' of Lynn, in 2 vols. 8vo. Dr. Evans says of it:' It is not only well written, the style perspicuous and manly, but it is replete with information as well as entertainment." His Review of Noble's Memoirs of the Protectoral House of Cromwell is characterised by Lowndes as " severe, but at the same time just." "His dictionary of Welsh and English," says Dr. Evans, "a work of minute and wearisome labor, is in high repute."' Mr. Richards was of the General Baptist- denomination, and a strong advocate of religious liberty. It was his love of the liberal character of this institution which induced him to bestow upon it his library, as appears from the following passage in his Memoirs:- "Mr. Richards had corresponded with Dr, James Manning, once President of the Baptist College i-n Rhode Island. From this gentle-. -man he learned the liberal constitution of that respectable seminary, and for some years previous to his death meant to bequeath to it his library. He accordingly made inquiry of Dr. Rogers [of Philadelphia] whether it was still conducted on the same liberal foQting, in which case he shotld [ 120:] as cherish the same generous intentions' towards it." This inqTilry was answered by Dr. Messer, then President of the college, in a letter from which it may be well- to extract-the following palsage: -Though the charter requires that the President.shall forever be a Baptist, it allows, neither him,. in his official character, nor any other-officer of-instruction, to' inculcate any sectarian doctrine;'it forbids all religious tests; and it requires that all. denominations of Christians, behaving alike, shall be, treated alike. This charter is'congenial with the whole of the civil government established here by the, venerable Roger Williatns: who allowed no religious tests,- and no pre-eminence of bne denomination-over another;. and none has -ever been allowed untothis day. This' charter is also con — genial with the present spirit'of this State and of this town." Gratified with this letter, Mr. Richards beqeathed' his library, consisting of abouet thirteen hundred Volutmes, to BroNwn University. It is asingular fact, that his will was i ade on the very day on which the honor — ary degree' of Doctor of Laws was conferred upon -him by this college. Mr.'Richards had received no intimation that'the honor was intended for' him, nor did he live to hear that it had been bestowed. The library which he bequeathed' to the college is, in many respects, valuable. It contains a considerable'number of'Welsh books, a large collection of valuable' works'illustrating' the history and antiquities of England- and Wales; besides two or three hundred bound- volumes of pamphlets, some of them: very ancient-,'rare, and curious. For the next' valuable;accession to the library-designated as,'the subscripti{on of 1825"-the college is indebted to the efforts of Mr. Horatio, Gates Bowenl, who'was libraian of the institution fromn 1821 to 1841., At his request several of the friends of th.college subscribed eight hundred and forty dollars, which sum was exQpeuded in the purchase- of booksl. Between 1823-5, fifty-four volumes of valuable scientific works.ilncluding Cloquet's Anatomie, ILamarclk's and De Candolle's Flore Frangaise, Cuvier's' Regne Animal- and Williins's Vitruvius, were presented by Mr. John Carter Brown and Mr. Robert Hale Ives. Often, since that time, the names of these gentlemen and of Mr. Moses B.'Ives appear amnong the benefactors of the library. About the year 1823, a splendid donation, consisting of one hundred and three volumes, comprising the best editions, mostly in quarto, of the. works of the celebrated'French mathenlaticians, Euler, Lacroix, Lagrange, La Place, etc., besides many valuable theological works, was made by the Rev. Thomas Carlile. In' 182t6 Messrs.' Brown & Ives presented7 through- Dr HIomer, fifty volumes of rare and expensive theological works. lit the same.year donations were received'from the' Hon.'William Hunter, LL. D., and fi omn Usher Parsons, MI. D. On the return of Prof. Elton from Europe, in 1827, donations were received, tl-lrough him, from several distinguished-: gentlemen iii Europein all, two hundred and eighty-three volumes; besides eighty five' volumes of classical and miscelaneous works purchased by him at the order of Messrs. Brown & Ives. The libraries of the Philophysian and Franklin Societies, composed of' undergraduates, when these societies became- extinct, were, by provisionls of their constitutions, incorporated'with the'College Library. They together contained,three or four hundred volumes. 57 [ 120 ] The government of Great B-ritain presented, in 1833, one hundred and ten volumes of the publications of the Record Commission. In 1838 Mrs. Elizabeth H. Bartol,: wife of the Rev. Cyrus A. Bartol of Bosto0n, and Mrs. Hepsy S. Wayland,.wife of President Wayland,'presented three hundred and fifty six volumes of standard works in French and Italian literature. The Rev. Jonathan Homer, 1). D., of Newton, Massachusetts, at various times, made valuable donations of rare and costly theological books; includihng some valuable editions of the Bible. Many of these donations contain copious and useful manuscript annotations by the learned -donor. Among the additions to tie library, a collection of fifty volumes of Ordination Sermons, presented by the Hon., Theron Metcalf, of Boston, +a graduate of the college in the class of 1805, deserves particular notice. These volumes contain more than a thousand discourses preached at ordinations, installations, and inlaugtrations in the United States, and mostly in New England. This is without doubt:the largest collection of the kind which has ever been made, and is of obvious importance as connected with the ecclesiastical:hisatory of the country. The library fund next claims our attention. "At a meeting-of the standing committee of the corporation of Brown University, held January 10, 1831, it was unanimocsly resolved;"1.- That immediate measures be taken to raise, by subscription, the suim of'twenty:fie thlousand. dollars; to be appropriated to the purchase of books for' the library, and apparatus for the philosophical and chemical departments of Brown University. "' 2. Resolved, That the -chairman and Thomas P. Iles be a committee to carry the foregoing resolution into effect. PF. WAYLAND,:' Chairman.' Soon afterwards, a meeting; of the friends of the institution was called for the purpose of seconding this effort. At this meeting the wants of the library and the importance of supplying them were presented and urged. Previously to this, however, the Hon. Nicholas Brown had, with his wonted- munificence, subscribed ten thousand dollars towards the fulnd. -The subscription was opened, with the followin.g conditions: i. "'The whole amount shall be invested in a permanient futnd, of which the interest shall be, from time to time, a-ppropriated-exclusi vely to the objects stated: in the resolution.., "-The selection of books and apparatus shall be made by joint commnittee of the corporation and government of the university. 3. " One-third of the amaounlt subscribed shall become due on the 1st day of October, 13;2, another third on the 1st day of October, 1833, -and the remainder on the 1st day of October, 1834. 4. " A-copy of the subscribers' names, and of the sums subscribed by earlh, shall be deposited in the library, anrd another among the archives of the university.'" The sum thus obtained, amounting to $19,437 50, was placed at inrterest until it had acculmulated to twenty-five thousand dollars, and was then invested in a permanlent fund, according to the provisions of the subscription, as abbve'specified.. rThe first dividend became due in July, [,20 58 1839. Since that time the proceeds have been regularly appropriated according to the design of tile donors. The room appropriated to the library, at the time when the library fund was raised, ";was an apartment in University Hall, crowded to excess, unsightly and wholly ulnsuited for the purpose to which, firom necessity, it was devoted." To remedy this defect, the Hon. Nicholas Brown erected, at his own expense, abeautiful edifice for a library and chhapel; to which, in testimony of veneration for his former instructor, he gave the name of Manning Hall. This buildingwas dedicated in 1835. Soon after the removal of the library to the new building it was newly arranged, and in 1843 a full catalogue of its contents printed. This catalogue was favorably noticed in the North American Review, and in other leading periodicals, and drew special attention to this important department of the ins-titution. Soon afterwards a chair of modern languages was established at the college; and the professor elect was encouraged to visit Europe, partly for the purpose of professional study, and partly to enable the friends of the college to carry out more effectually their wishes for the increase of the library. This agent was authorized by Mr. John Carter Brown to select and purchase, at his expense, such books in the French, German, and Italian languages, to the value of about $2,700, as he might think most useful for the college. The selection was made, both of works and of editions,?without regard to' cost; but the books were purchased with the closest reference to economy. For about $2,600 dollars the number of volumes of bound books purchased was 2,921-viz: 121 folios, 392 quartos, 1,627 octavos, and 781 duodecimos, besides 74 valniableimaps and engravings. These books were all well bound, most of them newly and elegantly, in half calf, plain gilt. The average price per volumes including binding and all other expenses, was about 89 cents. This collection includes a set of French, German and Italian classics, in the best and fullest library editions; the principal philosophical, scientific, and historical works of late continental scholars; a complete set of the " loni teur Universel," fron its commencement to 1826 —a clean, beautiful, well bound copy of the original edition, with the introduction, indexes, &c.- in 77 vols. folio; a set of the memoirs of the French Institute since its reorganization,-vols. 4to.;. the collection of memoirs relative to the history of France, by Guizot and Petitot, 162 vols. Svo.; a complete set of the Allgemeine Literatur- Zeitung, 134 vols. 4to.; and of the Alig!emeine Deutshe.Bibliothek, 139 vols. 8vo.; 11 Vaticano, 8 vols. folio, elegantly illustrated; Ii COampidolio, 2 vols. folio; the Museo Borlonico, 13 vols. 4to., the original Naples edition; the works of Canova and Thorwaldsen —the Musee FranSais and iJlusee Royal, in 6 vols. folio; the Descriptioun de l'Egypte, Canina's Achitecture, and many more illustrated works of great beauty and value, besides rare and costly maps and prints. These books were mostly purchased at auctions in Paris, Rorne, Leipsic, Frankifbrt on the Maine, and Berlin. Many were purchased at provincial sales. To supply the deficiencies.of the library in standard English works, a subscription was opehed among the friends (f the college, amounting'to about $5,000, and the same agent was appointed to select and purchase the books. This collection was received in the library in 1845, and raised the whole number of volumes to nearly 20,0)0. The class which graduated in 1821 held a meeting -in Poviidence, a quarter of a century from the time of their graduation, at which a con 59 2[ ], siderable sum of money was subscribed for the benefit of the library, in token of their grateful interest in the institution at which they were educated. The money thus obtained' was placed in the hands of Dr. Thomas H. Webb, of Boston, who purchased, with excel-lent judgment, about five hundred volumes), mostly from the library of the Hon. John Pickering.' The next year, 1847, the Rev. Samuel Osgood, then a clergyman in Providence, and now in New York, proposed to the several religious societies of the city a subscription for the purpose of supplying the deficiencies of the library in the best editions of the Fathers of the church, and the. standard theological writers of the Reformation. About $2,000 were raised, and a superb collection was purchased of the Benedictine editions of several of the' Fathers;' the Bibliotheca Maxima Veterum Patrum, 30 vols. folio; Harduinl's Collectio Conciliorum, 12 vols. folio; besides the choicest and most elegant editions of many of.the Fathers not edited by the Benedictines, and a large collection of works connected with patristic literature, and the history of the Reformation. The library committee had before this issued a circular, soliciting the donation of files of newspapers, important pamphlets, &c. In answer to this call a vast mass of pamphlets and papers were sent to the library. From the whole about 5,000 were assorted and arranged, and they form now an invaluable collection. Brown University certainly deserves great credit for the care with which she has garnered and guarded these neglected but precious memorials of our earlier history. i In 1793 the library contained 2,173 volumes; in 1826, 5,818 volumes; in 1843, 10,235; in January, 1849; 21,520, exclusive'of pamphlets and of duplicates; in January, 1850, the number of volumes was about 23,000. It has a large number of maps, charts, engravings, and elegantly illustrated works. Since January, 1843, 11,300 volumes have been added to the library. During the last eight years about $20,000, being the proceeds of the library fuind, and donations from individuals, have been expended for the purchase of books. From the income of the fund'about $1,200 per annum is appropriated to the purchase of books. The building (called Manning Hall) is built of' rubble stone, and is stuccoed. The library ocollpies the whole of the ground floor. Its dimensions are 64 x 38 feet, height 13 feet. Ii1 the centre is a double row of' fluted columns, from which the shelves extend to the walls, forming twelve alcoves. The books are, so far as convenient, arranged on the-shelves according to subjects, The first catalogue was printed in 1793; the second in 1826; and the third and last in 1843, [560 pp: 8vo.] This catalogue is alphabetical, according to the authors' names, and has a copious alphabetical and analytical index of subjects. A supplement, nearly as large as the original volume, and on the same plafn, is now in preparation. The library is open, during term time, daily from 10 a. im. till 2 p. m.; during vacations, weekly, on Saturdays, from 12 to 1. The members of the corporation; the president, professors, tutors, and register;- all resident graduates; all the donors to the library fund; all donors to the fund for building tRhode Island Hall;-and all donors to the library to the amount of $40, residing in the city of Providence are entitled to the use of the library without charge. Undergraduates are entitled to the use of the'library, and are charged therefor one dollar per term. During the year 848, from January 7 to December 5, 4,069:volumes were taken out. The number of [120] 60 books taken out increases every year. The privilege of consulting the library is extended, with such restrictions as the library committee may from time to time prescribe, to all graduates of the University; to all settled clergymen, of every denomination, residing in the city of Providence and its vicinity; and to all other persons on whom, for the purpose of advancing the arts, science or literature, the corpoiation or library committee may confer it. Books are occasionally lent to persons at a distance, by special permission of the library committee or the corporation. The present librarian is. Reuben A. Guild, A. M. There are two literary. societies: of students connected with the University-the Philermenian Society, founded in 1794, and the United Brothers Society, founded in 1806. Each has a library of about 3,600 volumes. They have issued elegant and well prepared catalogues. To the beautiful catalogue of the Philermenian Society., published ill January, 1849, is prefixed a history of the society, by Mr. B. F. Thurston. rlYhe Atherneutm Librarcy —15- 204 vols.-The Athenaurnm was incorporated by act of the General Assenibly of Rhode. Island,Janruary, 1836. It was formed by the union of thie Providenc e Library. (founded in 1753) and of the Athenaeum, (founded in 1831.)' The library contained, in September, 849, 15,204 volumes. The yearly average increase for the last ten years has been 800 volumes; the average annual expenditure for books, 1,2)0. There is a fund of five thousand dollars for the increase of the library, yielding $331 50 per ainnum.r This fund will soon be increased to eleven thousand dollars. A granite building was erected in l 83S for the use of the Athenaeum, at an expense of nearly $15,0500, The following description of the edifice is taken froni the- third report of the directors: " Principal story.-The floor of the principal story is about fifteen fet from the sidewalk in front of' the building; this distance is divided by side steps at each end of the bank in front; steps in the centre of the front of the building, six feet high, approached over a gravel walk on the top of the bank, Conduct to the front entry, which is eight feet wide by thirteen feet long. There are two rooms on each side of the entry, conlmmunicating with it, thirteen by eighteen feet each-one intended for a reading-room for periodical publications; the other for directors' meetings, committees, &c. " The library, or principal room, is entered through the front entry, or through either of the rooms just mentioned. It is thirty-two feet long by forty-three feet wide on the floor, and about forty-four long by forty-three wide, from within about seven feet below and up to the ceiling; this difference in length between the upper and lower parts of the room is caused by the space left over the reading and directors' rooms, which is taken off front the library room. Trlhose two rooms are ten feet high; the library roomis eighteen feet high. There is also another room eighteen feet high, inthe rear of the library room, entered through it, the dimensions of whic1li are, twenty by forty-three feet.," A catalogue was printed in 1837, of l;16 pages 8vo.; and a supplement of 108 pages Svo. in 1839. Another is nearly ready ibr the press.'t he library is open every day, Sunday excepted, from, the first of April till the tst of October, from 9 a. mu. till sunset; front October to April, fiom 10 a. m. till 9 p. mn. Persons entitled to the use of the books are owners of shares; tli price of a share is $15, subject to an annual tax of,5. 61 [120] Every shareholder- has. the! right of taking out two books at a time. There-are more than 500'shares, nearly —al of which are used. It is impossible to say how mary consult the library annually. The' number, however, is very large. According to article 10th of the library regnllations the board-of directors may authorize persons not connectd with the in — -stittion to make use of the library, Thomas Hale Williams, librarian. " This is a very well selected library, embracing the most important works. in all those departments of En~glish literature whichl are adapted to the general -wants and tastes of an enlightened community." It may,perhap~sbe considered the best English library of its size in the country. The department of periodicals receives partiecular attention. Fifty-nine re-,views, literary and scientific journals, and newspapers, are regularly taken,' and are read'"with fresh and ever increasing eagerness." With one exception, they are all inth.e-English'langiuage'. Great care has been exercised to procure all the back numbers, so that the series are generally complete, with all the indexes' &e. This- intitution has been justly pronounced "a model for all similar establishments'."'[BibliothecaSacra,'January, 1850.] We understand that Mr. Alexander Duncan has recently presented to the institution the sum of ten thousand dollars, in compliance with the wish of his uncle, the late Cyrus Butler, whose estate descended to Mr. Duncan.. Library of thie Mechanics' Association —3,300 vols.-A catalogue of this library was printed in 1821, in 1 2mo. The'Rhode Island Historical Society-2,500 vols. —This society was founded on the 1-9th of April, 1822, and incorporated by the General Assembly the June following. The society has published several volumes of "Collections."'' It has been faithful: and active in collecting the ma-terials for the hist6rv of the'State, and preserving them for future use.'"After the decease of the -Hon. Theodore Foster, the society purchased of his representatives the'collections which he had been engaged in makling during a long life devoted to historical:research. They have procured copies to be made of all orders and papers in the office of-the secretary of State in Massachusetts, relating to this State. The papers collected by the Rev. Isaac Backus, author of the History of the Bajptis!s, are deposited in the cabinet, as are also the letterb-hook and correspondence of Ezek Hopkins, the only individual who ever received a commission as adrniral in the navy of the United States." The society has taken great pains to complete its files of newspapers' printed- in the State. MJdost of them, including the Providence Gazette, are nearly perfect. Soon after, its incorporation the State gave tile society $500. The heirs of the late Nathan'Waterman presented a lot of land for a building. In 184:3 the society had accumulated a fund of $4,0{)(0 for an edifice. About $2,000 more we re tlen raised by subscription, and in 1844 a stone building was erected on'Waterman street, facing the College square, to wh (h the collections of the society were removed, and in which its meetings have since been held. Thile library contains about 2,500 volumes, mostly historical. [See account of the Rhode Island Historical Society, by: W. R. Staples.d-American Quairterl: i Reister, May, 1839, pp. 362-8.] Pryiend'aa Boarding School Libraries- l,500 vols. —T'he librar y of this well endowed institution consists of three parts, of which the principal. contains about 1,000 volumes, irregularly arranged in a room in toe central building. It embraces a general collection of English., scientific, and literary works, (novels excepted,) mostly the bequests of the late.Moses [ 120 J 62 Brown and his son Obadiah Brown-being their private libraries. No special appropriation has been made for a regular increase of the library; consequently it is failing behind the modern improvements in science. Some sn Mall additions of late works are, however, made every year. Tw6 other collection s of books, of rather a juvenile character, are kept in each wing, more particularly for the use of the pupils. These contain about 250( volumes each-making the aggregate of what are termed the library books, about 1,500 volumnes. This number does not include the.books of reading an'd study used by the pupils in their daily exercises, for which purpose about 600 volumes are in use. These are the property of the-institution; some are.furnished gratuitously, anid a part are lenlt to the students for a compensation. There is no printed catalogue of the library. All the pupils are entitled to the use of the books in the juvenile departments, and to those of the central library at the discretion of the librarian. The officers use the centiral library at their pleasure. The Pranklir Society, Providence, Rhode:Island, iounlded in 1823, has a library of 500 volumes, slowly increasing. Every memrber of the society has a key to the library room, and may use tlhe books when he pleases. PUBLIC'SCHOOL LIBRARIES- 19,637 VOLS-. Within the last four years, under the exertions of Mr. Henry Barnard, the enlightenedland energetic commissioner of public schools, public libraries have been established in every town in the State) with the exception of Johnston, Bristol, and East and West Greenwich. These libraries are composed of well-selected books, and are accessible to the whole popDulation. The money for purchasing them was mostly subscribed by pu blic-spirited individuals. 1 are indebted to Mr. Barnard for the following list of these libraries; with the number of volumes which they contain. " Portsmoauth- school district No. 1 650 vols.-This was the first libra-,ry. established in the State, as a part of the recent movement to improve the means of popular education. It owes its originmainly to the liberal do-,nation of $100 by Miss Sarah Gibbs, a resident in the-district. North Providence- four districts-aggregate, 1,200 vols. Cumberland Hill —500 vols. Smithfiel d-Bernon village, 1 Lonsdale ARthenwaum-1,000 Slatersville —800 > 3,475 vols., Hamlet village, * "v -- Globe, J' The library at Lonsdale was purchased by the commissioner, at an expense of about $5550, which w, as paid by the Lonsdale Company. The books are lent out to the inhlabitants, old and young, of the village, at a small charge ofone cent per volume. More than seventy dollars were realized the first year from the circulation ofthe books. " ThEe library at Slatersville was purchase'd out of an appropriation of -$500 made by Messrs. Slater, I oclkwood and Carter. a Burrillville BP~cssoacag Maui-ton Library-900 vols.-This ibrary and the libraries in Glocester, Foster, Cranston, IHopkinton, Richmond, Charleston, Exeter, Little Conlpton, New Shorehaim, Jamestown, and Barrington, owe their existence mainly to the liberality of Arnmasa Manton, esq., of 63 e 1o] Providence. By, an aggregate expenditure of about $1,000, he has been instrumental in raising in these towns double that amount, and has thus secured the establishment of ten libraries, with at least five thousand ~giod books. Who can estimate the blessings, individual and social, which will flow directly and indirectly fromn the dissemination of these boolks2 and wh'ich will continue to flow. yet more abundantly when the liberal donor has himself passed -from the earth, and another generation has risen up to have access to these libraries? Gloce'ster-Manton Library - - - - - 800 vols. Foster-MaInton Library.. - - 1,)000 Scituate-Aborn North.School Library - - - 500 Cranston School Library 400 ~ Middletown-School Library - - - 300 Little Compton-Mariton Library - - 600 "c "' Social Library - - - - 500' New- Shoreham -.. -.- 7 400 C Jamestown Library.-. -..700 i anton Library - - - 400 " Coventry-Washlington village - - 400 Bowen'-s Hill Library -. - - 400 C "' The library first named was given to the district by subscribers residents thereof. The Bowenrs Hill library owes it origin to a liberal contriibition from Mr., Tully Bowen, of Providence. Warwick-Ladies'.Library - - - - 500 vols.. — " Old Warv ick Library - - 250 c'VWesterly-Pawcatuck Library - - - - 2, 000 c Hopkintoin arnd Richmond,-Manton Union Library - 800. Exeter —-lManton Librarv - - - 62 ( C'harll.es o-; wnVIi anato n library - - as C "'South Kingston.-Besides a small library (200 vols.) at Kingston, ther is an itinerating library consisting of about 400 volumes, which are divided into four cases, each case containing about 100 books, and these cases pass in suIccession through the seveial villages in the town. Warren Lyeeum - -.. 500 vols Barrington —District No. 2 - 500 " Tiverton- Globe district - - - - - 150' " Most of fhe libraries recently established are open to all persons resident in the town, wtho'will pay one cent.a week for the Use of a volulte, and comply with the regulations which may have been adopted for the preservation of. ithe books.': ar. B1arnard (in the ".Report and Documents relating to the Public Sclhools of Rhode Island for 184S,"' pages 425 seq.) has given a historical atn sta:tietcal ccount of the several libraries'Iin- th S+tate, wiith a sketch of the ornganization and t e history and by-laws of the Pavwcatuck Library Associationt, as a flvorable specimen of a public school library. He has also published -the catalogue of this collection,in 94 closely printed Svo. pages. This library wvas selected by Mr. Barnard, and the cataloguet, with some very ju diCiOus expl:anatory remarks and select hints on reaing, ias preparedare by him.'We extract the follo virng paragraphs descriptive of the catalogue, renarlking, that adnirable juldg [ 120] 64 ment has been shown in the choice of books anrd in the means adopted for rendering them useful: " The first of' the following catalogues is a catalogue of subjects. Its design is not simply to- give the titles of the books of the library, but to furnish an index to the subjects considered in. the books. To effect this, the various books in the library have been analyzed with considerabl-e care, and the several subjects exhibited by them have been arranged under their proper heads. rThe analysis has been confined to distinct treatises'?and separate articles on subjects. The design.of the analysis- it is thought, has been accomplished viz: to make the catalogue so' full that no one shalt be obliged to remove a book fiom the-shelves in order to learn its contents or subjects, and that those who use the library imay make their selection of books directly from the catalogue. Thus the convenience of persons in their selection will be greatly promoted, and the injurioua. handling:of the books be prevented. -"'In addition to the catalogue of subjects, a catalogue of authors is also given, in which the names of all the authors in the library ore placed alphabetically, and ulder each name all such works of that author as belong to the library. " By the aid of these two catalogues any person, even those the least familiar with' books, may very readily refer to any work or any subject which they may wish to examine. "LIn both catalogues the number of each bookl, as it stands on the, library shelves, is carried out on the margin of the page against its title.'" CONNE C TIC UT. EAST WINDSOR. ibrary of thie T7eologica In stit.te-.3,500,ols. —The books in this library (founrded in 183:3) are amostly theological.'rhey are primarily for the use of the faculty and -stldents of the institute,.. The library is open twice a week.. The institute was foiutded in' 1833 by the Congregationalists. it was incorporated inl 1834. HIARTIO RD.'Ihe Library of the Youn: rteLen's JInslitute —1 0,000 vols.-This library contains about 10,000 volurnes, increasing at the rate of about 500 volumes per an nutn. An excellent catalogue, prepared on the same plan as that of the library.of Brox\',n Utiversity, was printed ini I844, contlaining 359 parges 8vo. A supplementary catalogue (in 32 pa3ges Svo.) was printed in tS147. The preface to the catalogue contains the fol1owinig historical sketch of the institute: " The Hartfbrd Young AlMen's Institute owes its origin mailly to the'interest awakened on the subject o lyceums antd associations fr lmutual impprovemlent by the lectures arnd discussions before tie American tlyceum, at its annual.m-eeting held at Hartfbord, IMayv 1S.38. IThe importance of establishing an institution in which all the yroung lien of the,ity might associate for purposes of mhoral and mental imprtvemnent, was discussed among individuals, and notice for a public meeting at Union Hall, on Friday evening, May 19, 1838, was given in the newspapers of the city. 65 [120] "'A public meeting was accordingly held, of which the Hon. Thomas S. Williams was made chairman, and William Jamles Hamersley secretary. On motion of Erastus Smith, and after remarks by Rev. T. H. Gallaudet, General Johnson, Rev. Mr. Sprague, and Erastus Smith, it was resolved, that the young mtn of Hartford associate tog'ether for the purpose of mutual improvement. The plan of an association was then discussed, and its further consideration postponed to an adjourned meeting to be held on Monday evening, June 4. On that evening the meeting was organized by appointing Henry Barnard, 2d, chairman, and Erastus Collins secretary. The articles of association, under the name of the Hartford Young Men's institute,' were then discussed and adopted." On the 5th of June the association was organized by the appointment of officers. ~'"The officers of the institute immediately issued a circular, [setting forth the importance of such an institution, and appealing to the public for support,] and on the evening of the 4tht of July the president delivered a public address, setting forth.the claims of this and similar institutions upon the liberal support of the community, and especially upon the young men. "These appeals were promptly responded to by a large accession of members, and liberal subscriptions in books and money, so as to enable the executive committee to put the main departments of the institute into successful operation. A reading-rootn was opened, a library of twentysix hundred volumes was established, a course of twenty lectures secured, two debating classes formed, and eighty-three life members and three hundred and forty-four annual members subscribed to the constitution of the institute. -"Before the close of the first year an arrangement was effected with the share-holders of the Hartfbrd Library Company, by which their valuable collection of books, amounting to about three thousand volumes, was transferred to the institute. "'At the first quarterly meeting of the institute, the executive committee were directed to take the necessary steps to procure an act of incorporation. Application was accordingly made to the General Assembly, at its next session, in May, 1838, and a special act of incorporation was obtained under the name of the' Hartford Young Men's Institute.' "At the first annulal meeting of the institute this act of incorporation was accepted, and the former constitution, with some modification, adopted as the by-laws for its future government. During the year 1839-'40, the number of annual members was four hundred and, five. At the close of the year 1842, there were five hundred and forty members; of which number, seventy one were life-members, twenty-six were members in virtue of being share-holders in the Hartford Library Company, and twelve were members having the privilege of the library only. "'During the year 1843-'44, the library was enriched by a larger and more valuable purchase of books than in any former year-eight hundred and eighty-two volumes having been purchased by the library committee, besides one hundred and sixteen volumes which were presented by friends of the institute. fThe interior of the rooms in Wad(sworth. Athenceum, appropriated to the institute, have been fitted up under the direction of the executive committee, mostly from subscriptions obtained for that purpose. [120 ]:66 "During the brief period of its existence, the success of the institute has more than realized the anticipations and promises of its earliest friends. More than one thousand young men, from every walk and employment of life, have been enrolled among its members; and through them, more than two-thirds of all the families of the city have felt the influence of the institution in some one or all of its departments of usefulness. Two classes for debate have afforded opportunities for acquiring mental discipline, and the correct, ready, and elegant use of the English language, in discussions of questions of civil, social, and literary inlportance, at the weekly or monthly meetings which have been held during the whole time. The reading-room, embracing the most valuable publications in the periodical literature of this country and of England, has been visited at all hours during the day and evening, by members, and strangers introduced by them, who have had any leisure to spend in this form of relaxation and instruction. The library (which, within six months after the first meeting for organization, comprised over five thousand valuable works) has every year, since, received large accessions of whatever of gotld, or great, or beautiful, the English or American mind has produced, till the range of selections embraces about nine thousand volumes. It has scattered the pleasures and advantages of knowledge broadly through society-more than one hundred thousand books having been drawn from its shelves. The lecture-room, for upwards of one hundred evenings in all, in the autumn and winter of each year, has attracted crowded audiences of the members and their friends, to listen to addresses by some of the most eminent professional and literary men of our land, who have thus brought philosophy, science, and literature from the office, the study, and cells of scholars, to the workshop, the daily business, and the firesides of men. And, in entering on the seventh year of its existence, the institute is in the permanent occupancy of one-third of Wadsworth Atheneum-a spacious, safe and massive edifice; chaste, beautiful and attractive in its architecture; central in its location; affording ample accommodations for the library and reading-room, the classes for debate and mutual instruction, the weekly meetings of the executive committee, and the regular quarterly and annual meetings of all the members, under the same roof with the other literary and -sientific institutions of the city-a structure consecrated to the pursuits of literature, science, and the arts; a mnolument at once of the munificence of the individual whose name it bears, and of the public.spirit of the citizens by whose liberality it was erected.ii "Every memlber of the institute who shall have paid all sums due from him to the institute, and made good -all damage and loss which he may have occasioned, and any person by paying $3 a year in advance to the librarial, shall be entitled to all the privileges of the library and reading room. "The library shall be open for the delivery and receipt of books every day (Sundays excepted) from 10 a. m. until 9 p. m." In the eighth annual report, presented June 6, 1846, we find the fol*The Wadsworth Ather:eum was elected for the joint accommodati.n of the Young Menr's Institute and the Connecticut Historical Society. It also contai, s a gallery of art. Daniel Wadsworth gave the land, valued at.15,000, and the cit.zens subscribed about 32,U000 for the building. 67 [ 120 ] lowing table, exhibiting the number of volumes in the library at the close of each year; the number of volumes presented; the number of volumes purchased; and the amount of money annually expended upon this department: No. of vols. Donations. Purchases. Money expended. First year.......... 5, 620 Vols. 00 Vols. 1,500 $1,261 91 Second year........ 6, 335 159 c 597 831 80 Third year.. 6, 924 "C 126 " 463 678 57 Fourth year....... 7, 453 c175 " 478 443 39 Fifth year....... 7,819 c 75 " 280 393 43 Sixth year..... 8, 701 " 116 " 882 1,078 80 Seventh year.. S. 8, 871 " 121 " 49 596 13 Eighth year....... 8, 9 21 " 97 46 21 Whole amount of money expended 5,330 24 Average amount per annum - 666 28 Owing to the time and labor required in making the necessary estimates, few of the reports announce the number of volumes annually circulated by the institute.\ The following are the estimates that have been made: Circulation, first year - - 2, 000 volumes. Circulation, fourth year - - - 25, 178 Circulation, fifth year- 2., 26,50 Circulation, eighth year - - - 25, 115 The State Library of Connecticut, at tHartford. —Under the care of the Secretary of State are some 3,000 volumes of public documents and miscellaneous books, forming a nucleus for a State library. No distinct de. partment of the kind has as yet been organized. The Library of the Historical Society of Connecticut-7,000 voI. -. This society was incorporated in 1825. Owing, however, to the removal of several of the more prominent members from the State, its operations were suspended for several years. Its charter was revived in 1839;. Soon after which time, chiefly through the intervention of Mr. Henry Barnard, (now the commissioner of schools in Rhode Island,) the present library was obtained. This remarkable collection was made by Rev. Thomas Robbins,,D. D.D, a clergyman of Rochester, Massachusetts, formerly of East Windsor, Connecticut, one of the founders of the society. In early life he determined to buy about $200 worth of books every year. This he conitinued 1,early ha;lf a century, till he had accumulated about 5,000 volumes. It is a curious and valuable collection. In the year -- it was transferred to the Historical Society, by an arrangement, which constitutes the venerable collector librarian for life, and gives the library to the society. Trtinty Coltlee Libraries 9,000 vols.-Trinity Collegegformerly called Watshington College, was incorporated by act of the legislature in 18230 [ 120] 68 "rThere are 3,000 violumes belonging to the college, arranged in alcoves, and occupying a room in Seabury Hall-in which are also the portraits of -several officers and benefactors of thle college. There are also two libraries belonging to societies of under graduates, containing an aggregate of 6,000 volumes."-[College Calendar.] MIDDLET'OWN, Wesleyan University Libraries-l 1,123 vo&s.-The Wesleyan University: was incorporated in 1831; the library was commenced the samne year. It contained August 1, 1848, 5,623 volumes, a few M.SS., matps and coins. About 100 volumes are yearly added, and about $100 expended annually for the purchase of books. An income of about $225 per annum is derived from a tax upon the under graduates. A catalogue was, printed in 1837, containing 50 pages 8vo. The library is opened every Monday and Thursday in term time, at 12 m., for half an hour. The persons entitled to the use of the books are: the faculty, president, graluates, and under-graduates. The last pay $2 per annum. Professor John W. Lindsay, librarian. Besides the college library, the Peithologian and Philorhetorian Societies of students, connected with the university, possess 5,500 volumes. The following remarks, prefixed to the catalogue of the college library, give some account of that publication and of the history of the col.lection: "T'The following catalogue has been prepared for the convenience of the librarian and students of the university. As the time which could be devoted to its preparation would not admit of a detailed account of the subjects, edition, and other particulars of each work, which are necessary to a full and complete catalogue, nothing further has been attempted than an enumeration of the titles, briefly stated as might be, and alphabetically arranged, generally with reference to the subjects. " The library has been enriched by many valuable donations, only a few of which can be here noticed. The most valuable was made by Thomas Chapman, esq., of Camden, New Jersey, and is called, as a token of respect to the donor, the Chapman Library of the Wesleyan University. This portion of the library, in number about 2,000 volumes, consists of all the books in cases D, E, and F, except such as are marked with a i. There are among them 177 ftlios and 121 quartos. COf these, 1,655 volumes were fixed at a low price: one half of the amount was presented by Mr. Chapman, and the other half paid by the trustees. The remainder of the 2,000 volumes was given with no reserve but the privilege of adding to the number. Among the latter is a splendid copy of the Antwerp Polyglot, in 8 folio volumes. That part of the catalogue distinguished by a i, numbering 375 volumes, was the library of the late John Summerfield, and presented to the university by his brother-in-law, Jamles Blackstock, esq., of New York. Those:distinguished by a *, are books presented by the British conference, valued at X100. Other valuable,preSents have been made by authors and other individuals, of which more,specific notice cannot be taken in this place." The Friendly Association of Upper Middletown-434 vols.-The following notice is from a historical sketch furnished by Mr. Horace G. Wiliams. It would be difficult tb point in this country to a better model for 69 [ 1'20 ] a village literary society, or to one which has been for'a longer timne urni.nterruptedly prosperous and useful, than the Friendly Association of Upper Middletown: "A little more than a year preceding the establishment of the Friendly Association in this village, several gentlemen met together and formed a social club for mental improvement, under the name of the'Debating Society.' It appears to have commlenced with a very respectable number of members, and was conducted with considerable spirit for a time. The nlmimber of members became, after a while, greatly reduced; and it was resolved by the few remaining to make some changes in its management, preserving whatever of the constitution and by-laws was thought excellent. The new plan being favorably received by several individuals who were not connected with the' Debating Society,' its reorganization under a better system seemed to promise success.'"On February 20, 1810, the first meeting was held, commencing with thirteen rnembers; and, their object beingl the mutual improvement of each other, the name of the' Friendly Association' was very appropriately chosein. After the adoption of the constitution for the society, the proceedings were regularlf organized by the appointment of officers.'"Of:the early members who were particularly active in establishing and sustaining the associations, the names of Messrs. William C. Redfield, Silas Sage, Joseph Williams, -and Martin Ranney, may be mentioned with some degree of pride; the former of whom has, by his contributions to natural science since his residence abroad, secured a very distinguished reputation throughout the world. Many valuable features in the management of the society were suggested by him; he is still warmly attached to it, and has repeatedly manifbsted his interest in its prosperity. The foundation of a permanent library was a favorite measure with several of the original members of the association, and one of the first resolutions adopted was to appoint a committee for soliciting aid from its friends in the village. As the result of this effort, the sum of $11 25 in cash and 53 books, chiefly on biography, travels, and religious subjects, were received, the most liberal donations being from individuals not connected with the society. About two years later, an additional fund was raised by subscription among the members, amounting to $32 25; all of which was invested in the purchase of books for the library. -' The expenses of the association have been managed with considerable economy, its principal resources being the fee of one dollar paid by each person upon signing the constitution. Whenever an applicant for admission is elected, he receives a suitable address from the president, explaining his duties and privileges. As the society is always very cautious respecting the character of such, it has in no instance been forced to expel a member for a breach of its regulations. Quite a number of young ladies have joined the association, and the effect of their frequent presence at the meetings has been to -stimulate the zeal of the gentlemen, and to render their performance more interesting. Neither sex is exempt from contributing a share of their time and labor for the mutual benefit; but, if lany are too diffident to exhibit their own productions or prefer to communicate anonymously, a' reader' is appointed for the purpose. The miscellaneous exercises usually embrace a variety of subjects; they consist principally, however, of original compositions, recitations of dialogues [.1a0] 70 and selected pieces, reading of choice extracts, translations: from the classics and modern languages, and reviews of literary publications. The meetings occasionally assumrne a conversational character: interesting anecdotes are related, natural curiosities and relics of' old times' are shown~,, and chemical experiments are performed; and the members are always free to'aisk for informationr or to make critical remarks. "The Dractice of inviting strangers to deliver occasional addresses and lectures before the society originated about twelve years since, and has. been continued to the present time, with marked benefit to the members. ".The return of every anniversary of the association is always an event of some importance throughout our village, it being celebrated with a variety of performances appropriate to the time. Considerable preparation is made, for these exhibitions, vWhich usually include oratiorns, essays, dialogues, and dramas, mostly original, together with songs and glees, or instrumental music. Of late years a small fee has been charged for admittance, andl with the funds thus realized additions are regularly made to the library. "'Until 1834 the meetings of the association were held in anl old schooI-house which afforded very inadequate accommodlations, the library being crowded into the space of a few feet, called the' lobby,' in one corner of the room. By private subscription among the members, and a gener. ous arrangement with the proprietors of -the'academy' building, the free use of a spacious and convenient hall. was secured so long as the society might choose to occupy it. The room is neatly furnished, and, as the library can now be displayed to. advantage, it presents: quite an imposing appearance. The number of books has increased to 434, exclusive of several printed essays and documents; and of these about 75 volumes have been received from different members within a few years.past. For a short time a regulation was in force allowing a person to join the society for one year oti payment of fifty cents, but it has since been repealed. The actual number of life members is now 270. Since its organization 802 weekly and monthly meetings have been held, their interest being very uniformly sustained, and only twice have they been suspended for a longer period than usual. The young men of the village:, either clerks, apprentices, students, or teachers, are generally its active members, the oldest and: most capable of them being intrusted with the management of its; affairs. Possessing a respectable library and a surplus in the treasury, the future success of the association alone depends upon the persevering efforts of its friends. "HORACE G. WILLIAMS. "UPPER MIDDLETOWN, Conn., July 11, 1850." NEW HAVEN. Yale College Libraries-50,4S1 vols.-In the year 1700, ten of the principal ministers met at New Haven and formed themselves into a society, and agreed to form a college in the colony. At their next meeting, which was at Branford, the same year, each of them brought a number of books, and, presenting them to the society, said: "'Igive these books for- the founding of a college in this colony." Bishop Berkeley, about 1733, sent to the library from Europe "the 7 1 [ [1201] finest collection of books that ever came together at one time into America." Sir Isaac Newton, Sir Richard Steele, Drs. BLurnet, Woodward, Halley, Bently/, Kennet, Calamy, Edwards, the Reverend Mr. henry, and Mr. Whiston, presented their own works to the library. rllhe growth of the library till 1845 was very gradual. In that year a very large and; valuable accession, selected and purchased in Europe by Professor Kingsley, gave to the library a new and vigorous impulse, and placed it arnorig the best collections of books in this country. It contained January 1, 1849, 20,515 voluines, including duplicates, of which there may be 200 to 3t00 volumes.'l'he number of parnphlets is probabty 3,000. The library contains also a few MSS., charts and engravings-not easy to specify in numbers. The MSS. bequeathed by President Stiles are in about 40 volumes. For the last: ten years about 900 to 1.000 volumes have been added annually. During the same period the average annuaiexpenditure for the purchase of books has been $1,620. There is a permanent fund of $27,000 for the increase of the libr.ry- yielding annually $1,620. Ini 1845-'6 a building was erected for the use of the College Library and the three society libraries. The material is red sandstone from Portland, Connecticut. The total cost, when stone steps and pinnacles are added, will be near $40,000. The books are arranged on the shelves according to subjects, as far as may be conveniently practicable. The books are not numbered. Catalogues were printed in 1743, 1755, 1791, 1808; the last (102 pp. Svo.) in 1823. The library is opened every day in the year (except Sundays and three or four public days): in term time fromn 10 a. mi. to 1 p. im., and from 3 to 5 p. m., and in summer commonly an: hour or two more: in vacation, every day from 3 to 5 hours. The persons entitled to the use of the books are, the professors, members of the professional schools of the college, and rnemn bers of the senior and junior classes.. Seniors and juniors pay a small charge — others pay nothing. The privileges of the library are granted to many literary and scientific persons in town. Books are lent out, but consultation in the library is encouraged in preference. The number drawn out yearly, not known. The number actually out on one day when' an examination was made, April 2, 1849, was 541. The term of loan is one: month, except to the officers' of the college, who frequently retain books until the general return in August. The number of visitors from curiosity and study is, in fair weather, large. The number of consulters may vary from five to fifteen daily. In answer to the qxlestion, Have the books been injured at any time by insects? Mr. Herrick remarks: "The Lepisma saccharina is, common; brought in, probably, by old books. I cannot discover that it eats much. In: my own library, at home, two books have been injured by some boring beetle or its larva, (probably a species of anobium,) so that I; cannot doubt that: books in our public libraries need examination once a year, at least, with reference to this matter." Books are lent to persons at a distance on application to the library committees and without charge. For two or three years past books have been constantly out of town under this regulation. Edward C. Herrick, librarian. See also American: Quarterly Register, vol. 8, p. 14: Boston, 1836: 8vo. Medical Library-900 vols. Law Library —1,900' vols. [120o 72 In the same building with the College Library, but in separate apartments, are the libraries of the three literary societies of the college, viz: the Linonian, Brothers in Unity, and Calliopean. Statistics January 1, 1849; No. of vols. by Average No. of vols. No. of volumes actual count. added per year for drawn out per ten years past. annum. Linonian Society - - l,646 440 11, 530 Brothers in Unity Society - 10,500 430 about the same. Calliopean Society - 6, 02) 170 about 5, ()00 The society libraries are opened statedly every day (or nearly) in term time for about 35 minutes, ending at 2 p. In. - Eaich society librarian has usually three or four assistants. T'he librarian is selected fron the senior class; the assistants are from the lower classes. The last catalogue of the library of the Linonian Society, printed November, 1846, contains 274 pages 8vo. It has the following prefice: s' The Linonian Society was founded in September, A. D. 1753. To the members of the society of the class of 17694 atld of the classes inmediately following, we are indebted for the foundation of the library. In the records of the society at that time is foun4 a vote of thanks to Timothy Dwight, Nathan Hale, and James:Hillhouse, for the first contribution of books. " From the rec6rds and catalogues -we are enabled to show the number of volumes at different periods. In 1770 there are stated to be nearly 100 vols.; 1780, 152 vols.; 1790, 330 vols.; 1s800, 475 vols.; 1811, 724 vols.; 1822, 1,187 vols.; 1831, 3,505 vols.; 1837, 5,581 vols.; 1841, 7,500 vols. The present catalogue numbers 10,103 volumes. "It has been attempted to adapt the present catalogue to general convenience. To this end it has been made as accurate and systematic as possible; each book is inserted under the name of the author, as far as could be ascertained, and again under the most prominent word of the title. The classified index will afford a view of the resources of the library in the respective departments therein designated." The last catalogue of the library of the Brothers in Unity, containing 224 pages Svo., was published in April, 1846. The following is the preface: "The library of the society of Brothers in Unity is located in the north wing of the new College Library-building, aild numbers at the present time 9,140 volumes. "'Flhe oldest catalogue which we have seen, (probably the oldest in existence,) is a manuscript originally prepared by Judge Baldwin of this city, and by him lately presented to the library. Judge Baldwin was librarian of the class of 1781, thirteen years subsequent to the formation of the society. This valuable relic contains a list of only 163 volumes-but those carefully selected standard works. The library was at that tirne kept in a private room, and jealously closed against all except mn' mbe~rs. A collection of the printed catalogues, nearly if not quite complete, is to be found in the library of the college. It appears from these, that from 1.808 to 1825 the various societies issued joint catalogues. The number of volumes in the Brothers library, at various periods since 1S8O, is as follows: 18t)8, 723 vols.; 1811, 756vols.; 1814, 860 vols.; January, 1SI8, 937 vols.; September, 1822, 1,187 vols.; November, 1825, 1,730 vols.; 73- [120 ] April, 1829, 2,550 vols.; September, 1832, 3,562 vols.; January, 1835, 4,565 vols.; June, 1838, 6,(78 vols. It will be seen from this table that it has increased with much greater rapidity within the last few years than at any former period. ~' The present catalogue differs in several respects from those which have preceded it. The list of authors has been very much increasedcompleted, so far as time would allow-and inserted in the body of the work. The whole has been rewritten, and in very many cases the titles of books given with greater distinctness. The index hlas also been rendered more perfect by the addition of three or four new divisions. Books canl, therefore, be found almost invariably under the 7zname of the author, usually also under the most prominent word of their own title, and finally under their appropriate subject in the index." The Calliopean Society published a catalogue (94 pages 8vo.) on the same general plan as the others in February, 1846. All these catalogues are well prepared, and elegantly printed. The libraries themselves are of great value. The societies are conducted'with remarkable spirit. T'o'the Brothers Society we are indebted for the publication of a very useful' 4ork, prepared by William Frederick Poole, entitled "An Alphabetical Index to subjects treated in the Reviews, and other Periodicals, to which no indices have been published; prepared for the library of the Brothers in Unity, Yale College. New York, Putnam, 1848: 154 pages 8vo.".'. Library of ihe Young MVIen's Institute-3,800 vols. NEW YORK. ALBANY. State Library-23,274 vols.-Founded in 1818 It is in two departments, the Law Libiary and the Miscellaneous Library, containingLaw Library-Law........................... 5,825 vols. Statute law.................... 1, 253 State papers..2, 792 9,870 vols. Miscellaneous library......................13, 353 vols. Maps, atlases, &c., bound in volumes.... 51 Maps..................................... 97 Engr'avings........... 299 Painting and busts................................... 4 Medals...................................... 25 Total............................ 23, (;9 23, 699 There is also a large collection of manuscripts connected with the history of the Sta.te, most of which have lately been received from -the office of the Secretary of State, from. which they were transferred to the State Library in pursuance of a joint resolution of the senate and assembly. A separate catalogue of these, forming 55 pp. Svo., was printed in 1849, being No. 148 of the Assembly docruments. Some of these manuscripts are of great interest and value. Among them are the original charter, or grant, of Charles 11 to his brother, the Duke of York, of this State, [120 ] 74 amongst others, in 1664; several royal commissiollns, of which the oldest is that of William and Mary, in 1689, constituting Henry Slouglhter cap tain general of the province of New York; oaths of allegiance and office, extendiolg floma 1698 to 1810; certificates of entry for land and land patents; rolls of laws passed by the legislature of the province, &c. The following appropriations have been made for the State Library since its foundarion, in 1818I, for the purchase of books, maps, charts, &c.: 181 8 ($3,0!00 for books and fitting up rooms, &c.)..1......, 500 00 1S819 (annual appropriation)............................ 5()0 00 1820 (annual appropriation)........................... 500 00 1821..................... 500 00 1822-.................................... ****500 00 1823................ 675 00 1824................................... 500 00 1825...........................X**-~*vv***j@e * 1,500 00 1826............................................... 1,300 00 1827..1,000 00 8'8...1,000 00 1829...................... 1,300 00 1830........ 801 44 1831..................... 562 78 1832............................... 1,645 44 1833.... 1 399 51 S1834................ 1,23638 " Globes............... 60 00 " 1st vol. Audubon............................... 220 )0 i835.............................. 1,24093' 2d vol. Audubon...................... 220 00 1836........ 1,972 25 1837............................... 1,219 39 " 3d vol Audubon..................200 00 1838........... 611 51 1839..... 1,309 32 1840............... 1,006 43 -.. -.... -................ 163 49 4th vol. Audubon,. 200 00 1841......... 3,148 60....................................-..... -.. 680 13 cc~~~~~~~. ——............. 1300 1842 -... 2,.30 91 1842 ~~~~~.........-...-...................'.2,09 c., 15583 1843. 1,500 00 1844.............................. 3,972 53 1845................................ 3,560 37 W" arden library.................. 4,o000( 00 1846............................................ 3,328 64 1847.,.............3,5S4 91 1848..... 4,347 18 1849,.................... 4,00 00 62,995 97 75 [120] The value of the donations to the library has been estimated by Dr. T. Romeyn Beck, secretary of the trustees, as follows Previous to 1S44...........$1,00 hiring 1844............................... 253 1.845.. 12............................... 1 15 1846,.1,915 1847....... 2,t068 1848......................................... 800 1849........... 2,250 9,501'If to these we add the hundreds of volumes of laws, journals, docunients, and law reports; the copies of thle Natural History of New York, of the Journals of the Provincial Congress, &c., &c., presented by the State itself to the library, the total amount will considerably exceed ten thousand dollars." Respecting the general character of the collection the select committee of the assembly on the library say, in their report dated February 3,1849: "We feel constrained to siy that we have been surprised and gratified to find such completeness in somie of the departments, and the whole to be of such great value. An examination will convince all that it has become a worthy object of State pride. Already the law department is considered the most perfect of any similar collection in the States. It is believed, also, that nowhere can be found so many useful works on America and American affairs. The most unwearied pains have been taken; Europe and this country have been ransacked to procure everything valuable in this department. Thevalue of these books cannot be estimated in money, for money could not replace very many of them. There are, also, valuable scientific, statistical, documentary, and miscellaneous works, otherwise inaccessible to Americans generally." This library has, at different times, received large and valuable accessionis through the agency of M. Vattemare. Nearly one thousand volumes, mostly in folio and quarto besides maps, charts, &c., have been thus added to the library. It is required by law that a catalogue of the State Library be published every five years. The trustees present an annual report to the legislature containing the lists of books added to the library since the previous report. The catalogue published January, 1844, contains two hundred and fortyfive pages Svo. The regents of the university, having been constituted trustees of the State Library by act of the legislature, (passed 4th May, 1844,) requested, in their report, (January 10, 1845,) permission to prepare and print, immediately, a new and improved catalogue. The legislature acceded to their wishes, suspending the enactment requiring quinquennial catalogues. The catalogue published in 1846 is in two parts, paged separately. Part 1, is the catalogue of the law library, (252 pages 8vo.,) prepared by John L. Tillinghast: Part 2, catalogue of the miscellaneous library, (294 pages 8vo.,) prepared by George Wood. Pages 214-252 contain a minute and carefully prepared descriptive catalogue of the publications of the Record Commission of Great Britain. A new edition, dated January 1, 1850, has [120] 76 been printed. It contains 1,058 pages large Svo, in parts. The first part, (245 pages) is an alphabetical catalogue of the law books, registered with the necessary fillness, under the names of the authors. The second part, in 35 pages, double columns, is a catalogue or index of the samne books, arranged according to subjects. The titles of subjects are arranged alphabetically. The third part (pages 283-365) contains statute laws and State papers. This includes a list of Congressional documents since the formation of the government, in a tabular form' exhibiting the number and titles of the volumes published at each session of Congress, with the time of the commIencement and termination of each session. The fourth part (pages 367-376) is a classification of statute laws and State papers, under nineteen heads, as commerce and navigation, debates, digests, diplomatic correspondence, &ce. The fifth and largest part is a catalogue of the mniscellaneous works, (pages 377-815 ) Part sixth is a classification of the miscellaneous works into five leading classes, namely: (l) theology, (2) government and political economy, (3) sciences and the arts, (4) history, (5) belles-lettres, with several subdivisions under each class. Part seventh contains a catalogue of works of art, globes, atlases, maps, plans, painting, engravings, busts, and medals, (pages 909-950.) Appended to these are lists of books received while the catalogue was in press, a list of donations to the State Library from its foundation to January, 1850, and a descriptive list of manuscripts received from the Secretary of State. "The works in the miscellaneous department of the library, when not anonymous, are lettered with the author's nanie, and a brief title of the work. Each work is arranged on the shelves alphabetically, under the initial letter of the surname of its author. Anonymous works are lettered agreeably to their subjects, and placed in like manner under their initial letters. The octavos and smaller sized volumes are disposed on one set of shelves-the quartos and folios separately, on other sets of shelves. There are, however, some few exceptions to this order. Periodical works, such as magazines, registers, and reviews, scientific journals and )publications of learned societies, together with the dictionaries, encyclopwdias, and gazetteers, and other similar works of repeated reference, are withdrawn from the general arrangement and placed by themselves for more convenient consultation. The Warden collection it was thought advi-able to keep, likewise, by itself. The works of this collection had been numbered by Mr. Warden, in his published catalogue, as they followed in his classification. These numbers have been cancelled, the works new numbered in their order in this catalogue, and indicated by the cap ital letters W. C.., with the number. The maps, charts, and atlases have been treated in a somewhat similar manner, and arranged in the catalogue among the other maps and charts. The words vide and see are used in the catalogue for two distinct purposes: vide, when the reference is from one part of the catalogue to another; see, when the reference is to the book itself, on the shelves." The library is open, during the session of the legislature and the courts, from 9 a. m. to 4 p. m, Sundays excepted. On Christmas, New- Years, and other holidays, it is open one hour, from 9 to 10 a. nm. It is accessible for reading and consultation to every citizen. The following statutes and regulations of the trustees relate to the use of the library: 77 [120 1 Revised Statutes, volume 1, part 1, chapter IX, title 8, section 6. —It shall be the duty of the trustees to provide, in their regulations, that any member of the senate or assembly, during the session of the legislature, or during the sitting of the court for the correction of errors, or of the senate only, shall be permitted, under proper restrictions, forfeitures and penalties, to take to his boarding house, or private room, any book belonging to the library, except such books as the trustees shall determine are necessary always to be kept in the library as books of reference; but ino member of the legislature shall be permitted to take or detain from the library more than two volumes at any one time. Ibid., sec. 7. —"Before the president of the senate. or the speaker of the assembly, shall grant to any member a certificate of the time of his attendance, hie shall be satisfied that such member has returned all books taken out of the library by him, and has settled all accounts for fines for injuring such books, or otherwise. "The trustees hereby declare, agreeably to the provisions of the revised statutes, that the law library, in its most extensive sense, comprehends such books of reference as should always be kept in it; but during the session of the legislature, of the senate, of the court for the correction of errors, and of any court held in the capitol, law books may be taken from the library to any room in the capitol, to be returned on the same day. The librarian shall previously charge each person so taking w'ith the book or books, and a fine of fifty cents shall be imposed for each day's detention beyond the above time. The regulations above ordained as to loss, injury, or damage of books, shall apply in the present case."No books belonging to the law library are to be taken to the miscellaneous library to be read; nor are books, maps, charts, or prints, be longing to the miscellaneous library, to be taken to the law library to be read or examined." The number of persons consulting the library is said to be very large, but it cannot be accurately stated. The library is at present in the capitol. It is very inconveniently lodged. The roomss too, are completely filled. The trustees and the governor of the State recommend the erection of a new building. From the spirit, good judgment and taste manifested in the general arrangements of the trustees, we are led to hope that they will not add yet another to the long and mehlancholy list of opportunities neglected for giving to the world the plan of a building suitable fbr a public library. The present librarian is Alfred B. Street. The Assembly Library contains 6,000 to 8,000 volumes. " It is impossible fo r the librarian, or any one else, to tell the exact number, so long as they are kept in the present manner. All that can be crowded, two rows deep, upon the shelves in the clerk's room, are there. The rest are in the garret of the capitol. This library is increasing very rapidly." The select committee of the assembly on the library (from whose report the above extract is taken) recommend the providing of better accommodations for this collection. It should be remarked that this collection contains several copies of most of the public documents of the State. The number of different works is consequently much smaller than the aggregate number of volumes would seem to indicate. The Library of the Young Men's Association-4,500 vols.-The Young Men's Association for Mutual Itnprovement, in the city of Albany, was [ 120 ] 78 founded on tile 13th of December, A. D. 1833. "The plan originally contemplated, and which has been hitherto carried into successful operation, was to furnish, at the cheap rate of two dollars per annum, admission to a news and periodical room, in which all the leading journals and periodicals of the State and nation, and such foreign ones as were deemed proper, should be taken; the privilege of taking books from a library, to which additions are constantly being made of new and valuable publications; attendance upon popular lectures on literary and scientific subjects at least once a week during the winter months, and opportunities for debate during the same period. Such extended means of information, of so varied and practical a character, it is confidently asserted, were never before offered at so cheap a rate." [See introductory remarklis to a pamphlet containingr the charter, with the rules, &c., of the Young Men's Association in Albany, 1847.]'The association was incorporated by act of legislature, passed March 12, 1835. The library contained (January, 1.848) 4,015 volumes, valued at $3,726 26. There were added during the previous year, by purchase 370 volumes by donation 24volumres. The following summary statement of the affairs of the association, taken from the annual reports of its presidents, from the time of its organizatfon to 1847, is annexed to the pamphlet, before mentioned, containing the charter, &c.: Year. No. newspa- OLher periodi- Volumes in Annual in-' Nomber of pers taken. cals. the library. crease. menmbers. February, 1834 92 23 811 811 614 Do 1835 87 20 917 106 3 8 Do 1836 84 16 1, 169 252 642 Do 1837 80 30 1, 369 200 608 Do 1838 80 25 1, 711 342 726 Do 1839 91 29 2, 205 494 90 1 Do 1840 85 30 2, 244 39 1, 036 Do 1841 81 25 2, 618 374 1,053 Do 184'2 88 31 3,067 449 10 2 4 Do 1843 78 20 3,208 141 906 Do 1645 68 18 3, 323.... 844 Do 1846 76 19 3, 616 293 933 Do 1847 76 20 4, 015 399 1, 204 A catalogue of the library, classified with an alpIlphabetical index, was published in January, 1848. It contains 103 pages Sn. An earlier catalogue was printed in 1843 The librarian is A. F. Lansing. Library of the State Noinral School-6,858 vols.-In the report for 1846 of the executive committee of the State Normal School of New York, established at Albany in 1844, it is stated that "a doiation for an educational library hlaS been made to the Normal School, by the executors of the Hon. James Wadsworth, out of certain funds left by that distinguished friend of education, to be disbursed ill such manner as would best promote the interests of the schools of the people." This valuable donation has been received, and composes the principal part of the "M'iscellaneous Library. 79 [120] "There are at present 745 volumes in the Miscellaneous Library. The Text Book Library numbers 6,113 volumnes."-[Report January 12, 1849.]With reference to the general character of the books, in tile "First Quinquennial Register and Circular of the State Normal School, September, 1849," it is stated:'"Besides an abundant supply of text books upon all the branches of the course of study, a- well selected miscellaneous library has been procured, to which all the pupils may have access free of charge. In the selection of this library particular care has been exercised to procure most of the recent works upon education, -as well as several valuable standard works upon the natural sciences, history, mathematics, &c. rTllhe State Library is also freely accessible to all. The library is under the charge of Mr. Webb, -one of the teachers of the school, who deserves especial commendation for the care taken by him, in arranging and preserving the books. The Miscellaneous Library now numbers 783 volumes, showing an increase of 38 volumes since the last report. In the Text Book Library there are 4,338 volumes fit for use. "-[Annual report for 1850.] Library of the New. York: State Agricultural Society-600 vols.-This society was organized in February, 1832, and was incorporated the same year. It has gradually been collecting a library, composed mostly of agricultural works, pamphlets and periodicals. During the last year (1848) about 100 volumes were added by purchase, and upwards of 100 by donlation. The library is now much used, and the Executive Committee, in their report for 1848, urge that it should be so increased as to contain all the valuable works on agriculture, horticulture, &c., published in this atid other countries, both for the benefit of the officers of the society, who are frequently called upon fobr information, and for the farmer and others interested in agriculture. Library of the Alb6any Medical C'ollege-2,212 vols.-The books are most of *them new and in good preservation. Their value is estimated at $5,900. -[Regents' report, 1S50.] Library of the Albany lnstitute 3,323 vols. The Albany Institute was established in 1828. In 1832, the library consisted of 1,592 volumes, and the museum of 10,444 specimens in natural history. The library at Iresent (1849) contains 3,323 volumes.:~~ i.: AUBURN. Thleological Semninary Library-6,000 vols. This seminary was founded by the Presbyterians, and comnnenced operations in 1821. BROOKLYN. T/e Library of the United States Navatl Lyceum-2,971 vols. The lyceum was founded in 1633, and possesses a library of 2,971 volumes, 478 maps and charts., 531. coins:, 49 mnedals, and 75 engravings. It is open daily from 8 o'clock a. m. to 3 p. mi. Members of the lyceum may take books out of the library'. Few, however, are taken out. The officers of the station resort to the library for reading. The library is at present under the charge of Dr. Thomas L. Smith, surgeon of the United States navy. City Library-3,000 vols.-Founded and incorporated in 1839. The 120] 80s books (400) of the Hamilton Association have lately been purchased. The whole now occupy a part of the Free Library roomcof the Brooklyn Institute, but are not merged in the library of the institute. It is hoped that t'le City Library will be the nucleus of a large and valuable collection. A right in the library costs'$25; annual assessment, $3. Persons not owning " rights" may enjoy the privileges of the library on paying $5 per annumn. An alphabetical catalogue (80 pp. 8vo.) was published in 1841. The act of incorporation and by-laws are prefixed to the catalogue. The library is under the care of the institute, and no separate librarian is employed. Youths' Free Library of the Brooklyn Institute 3,028 vols.-The institute was founded August, 1823; chartered September, 1824, by the name of'the Apprentices' Library Association of Brooklyn; charter renewed April 13, 1843, and name changed to the Brooklyn Institute. The Free Library dates from 1828. The present rate of increase is from 200 to 500 volumes a year. The expenditure for books varies from $50 to $250 a year. Many books are annually worn out by constant use. There is at present no permanent fund for the increase of the library. A part of the rent of the institute rooms is devoted to that purpose. The sum of $5,000 is about to be invested as a permanent fund for the library. A building of granite and brick was erected for a lyceum, at an expense of $30,000. It was sold under mortgage, bought by an individual, and presented to the trustees expressly for a library. It is eighty feet long, fifty feet wide, and three stories high. - Four catalogues have been printed since 1829; the last in 1849 (114 pp. 12mo.) The library is open three times a week, for three hours each time, for taking out books, and every evening for consultation. About 30,000 books are taken out each year. The librarians are volunteers, and frequently change. "Minors of twelve years of age and upwards may have free access to the Youths' Free Library, Brooklyn Institute, subject to the following rules and regulations, viz: 1.'A guarantee will be required fo)r the safe return of all books loaned. 2. "Each reader will be required to purchase a catalogue, at twenty-five cents. The numbers of the books wanted must be legibly marked on the card supplied for that purpose previous to coming to the library. 3. "Books may be returned every week, or kept out two weeks; if kept longer, they must be renewed, or the reader will be fined as follows: each quarto volume 12- cents, octavo volume 6 cents, duodecimo volume 3 cents per week. 4. "Books lost, defaced, or injured in any way, by being torn, soiled, written in, or leaves turned down, such damage to be paid for by the reader'as the librarian may deem proper. If a volume of a set be lost or injured, the vwhole set to be paid for. 5. "'No conversation allowed among the readers in the room during the time of giving out books, and all disorderly conduct in or near the library will forfeit thernm the use of the books, and also the admission to the lectures. Readers are required to leave the room as soon as they have received their books. 6. "Books marked with an asterisk (*) shall not be taken from the library except by special permission. 7. "No reader can receive a book from the library until he shall have s.81 [,"1201 paid'all fints, and made good all damages he may hlave occasioned, and no book belonging to tile library can be lent by the reader to any person out of the dwelling of the reader. 8. "The library will be open for girls every Thursday from 3 to 4 o'clock p. m; for boys every Monday and Saturday evenings-from May to November, from 7 to 9 o'clock; November to May, from 6 to S o'clock. 9. "MIembers:of the institute may have the use of the library, subject to the above regulations.>' BUFFALO. Library of the Younc AMen's Association —6,500 vols.-This society wars incorporated 3d March,:1837. It has (Jalnuary, 1849) a library of 6,590 volumes, which is well selected and arranged, and contains many rare and valuable works. The collection in English and American history and literature is very full and valuable. Many of the editions are rare and costly. The library is increasing rapidly-say'400 volumes per annum. It is open daily from 8 a. m. to 9 p. There is a separate Teading-room for newspapersand periodicals. Most of the leading reviews of the day are subscribed for. A lot of grounid has been purchased in the city for the purpose'of erecting thereon a suitable building for its purposes, and the executive committee are now engaged in raising the mneans to erect the same; the estimated cost of the lot and building being about $140(. 0 The number of volumes drawn from the library during the past year (1848) is 14,200; being an increase of 3,600 volumes over the preceding year. Of the volumes thus read, 38 per cent. were works of fiction; 36 per cent. history, biography, travels, &c.; 17 per cent. standard literature; and 9 per cent. science. The number of volumes drawn in each year since the foundation of the association is as follows: 1836, 5,500; 1837, 7,500; 1838, 6,300; 1839, 6,600; 1840, 6,400t); 1841, 10,400; 1842,7 1,100; 1843, 9)000; 1844, 8,000; 1845, 8,200; 1846, 9,250; 1847, 10,600; and in 1848, 14,200, as before stated. In 1847 a handsome and convenient catalogue was printed, containing 16 pages Svo., in two parts. H'Part one comprises a complete descriptive catalogue of all books in the library at this date, (except novels and works in foreign languages,) with the names of the authors arranged alphabetically, the arrangement including the first and second letter of each name. All works published anonymously wvill be found under the head of'anonymnous.' Part two is a catalogue of thetitles of the works comprised in part one, classified according, to subjects, and arranged alphabetically. Appended to the catalogue is a list of all works in the library published in foreign languages." Of the last mentioned class there are but few books, and those mostly medical works in Latin. Besides the library thie association possesses a cabinet of natural history, containing about 250 mineralogical and geological specimens, a catalogue of which is appended to the thirteenth annual report (1849.) The association also provides an annual course of lectures, free to members; others are charged 129 cents each lecture. The annual reports are gen-. erally printed. The librarian is Phineas Sargent. Mis.-6-l; [.120] S2 [ lao]' se The Medical Department of the Univensity of Buffalo possesses a library of 519 volumes, the estimated value of which is $800.-[Regents' report, 1850.] CLINTON. Hamilton College Libraries —10,300 vols.-The College Library was founded with the college, in ts12, and contains about 3,500 vols. The. average annual expenditure for books the last ten years has not exceeded $60. There is no permanent fund, except an income of $50' attached to the department of classical literature. The library room is about 75 feet by 20 fbet,in the same building with the chapel. A catalogue was published soon after the college was organized, but it is now oult of print. The library is opened on Wednesday and Saturday of each week, betweern the hours of 12 and 1 o'clock. All persons connected with the collegetrustees, officers, and students-are allowed the use of the books gratuitously. Anson J. Upton, librarian. The Union Society, formed in 1834, has a library of 3,400 vols. The triennial catalogue, printed at Utica in 1847, 55 pages Svo., contains names of members, catalogue of the library and of the cabinet. The cabinet contains about 4,300 specimens, including mninerals, shells, plants, birds,.and objects of curiosity; about 250 rare and beautiful Chinese birds were collected for the purpose, and presented by Rev. Dr. Parker of China. The Phlenix Society, formed -, has a library of 3,400 vols. The triennial catalogue,published in November, 1847, 61-pages 8vo., contains the names of members, catalogue of books, and of articles in the cabinet. EAST HAMPTON. Library GCompany-563 vols.-This library was founded by Dr. Lyrnan Beecher, in the year 1803, and has been a useful institution. It increases slowly from the proceeds of assessments. Sylvanus Jones, librarian. FLUS HINGC.... St. Paul's College Library. —-2800 vols. FORDHAM, St. John's College Library, and St. Joseph's Seminary Library-9,500 vols.-These two libraries (founded in 1840,) though distinct, are under the same management. St. John's College Library contains 5,500 vols., St. Joseph's Seminary Library 4,000. The latter possesses an illuminated manuscript of the bible, probably of the fourteenth century; the first four pages missing. About 4,000 volumes of the St. John's College Library have been received within the last three years, by donations and the transfer of the library of another institution. This library occupies two rooms-one circular, (18 feet in diameter,) the other oblong, 18 by 30 feet; the books are arranged according to subjects. St. Joseph's Library occupies a room 15 by 30 feet. It contains only works in divinity and kindred sciences. The catalogue is well kept in a folio manuscript, but has not been printed. The libraries are opened daily from morning till night. The faculty and students are allowed the use of the books gratuitously; 83 [120] books are lent to others on application, when, there is prospect of their safe return. Rev. I. Legouais, librarian. GENEVA. Gen2,a College Libraries-6,429 vols.-The library commenced with the college, in 1825, and contains about 2,0010 vols. and 1,600 pamiphlets; and increases at the rate of 70 or SO vols. yearly, most of which are gifts. A very iniperfect catalogue, now out of print, was published some years ago. There is no regaular time of opening the library. There is also a library, founded in 183,5, connected with the medical department; it contains about 600 volumes, valued at $1,50t). A society qf under graduates of the college (the Hermman Society) possesses a library of 3,669 volumes, to which additions are annually made from the proceeds of a tax upon the members. From this library the students are mostly supplied with books., though they are allowed to use the College Library without charge. The Herrnman Library is opened daily for an hour. Joseph M. Clark, A. B,tutor and librarian of the College Library. HIAMILTON. Madison:Unversty Libraries-7,000 volb. -This institution was established in May, 1820, by the Baptist Education Society of the State of New York. It was called, till within two or three years, the Hamilton Literary and Theological Institution. "One principal object aimed at by the early conductors of the institution, was to lay the foundation of a good library. Many of the first donations were received in books, and at the end of the seventh annual report we find a'list of books, &c.' frotn which we learn that the library contained 450 volumes." [See History of the Hamilton 1nstitutioJ, by Professor J. H. Raymond, in the American Quarterly Register for February, 1843.]' Most of the library is owned by the Baptist Education Society of the State of New York. A small portion is owned by the University board. It was begun in 1822, though, for many years, scarcely any additions were made, except by occasional donations, and those small. It contains, at present, 4,900 vols.'The books are arranged according to subjects, particular portions of the room being assigned to a particular class, as classical literature, sacred philology, church history,.modern languages, &c. Within each section the books are arranged according to their size. There is no printed catalogue. The library is opened for consultation every day at 1I o'clock, and is kept open until 4 o'clock, except Saturday. Books are drawn three times a week. The students are entitled to the use of the library by the payment of 25 cents per term; the board of trustees, faculty, and clergymen of the place, gratuitously. Books are always lent by the librarian to gentlemen of responsible character who desire them. Books are thus occasionally lent to persons at a considerable distance. Professor A.C. Kendrick, librarian. Students' libraries, 2,100 volumes. -HARTWICIK. Theological Seminary Library-1,000 vols. —IThis is a LutLeran institution, and was incorporated in 1815. [120- 84 HUDSON. The Eranklin Library-i,058 vols.-The Franklin Liblrary Association was incorporated in April, 1838. Its libhary contains 1,058 volumes. It has also a philosophical apparatus. The library is open every Saturday evening from 7 to 9 o'clock. The members pay two dollars a year for the use of the library, and for all the privileges of the institution. The executive committee have power to extend the use of the library to others. During the summer, about 35 books per week are lent out; during winter, about 70 per week. J. C. Newkirk, corresponding secretary. A catalogue, with the by-laws, was printed ill 1849 containing 21 pp. 12nmo. NEWVBUIRG. Library of the Theological Seminanry of the Associate Reformed Church3,230 vols. This seminary was incorporated in 1835. The library of the Associate Reformed Church was founded in 1802, and contains 3,230 volumes, and some manuscripts. The only considerable accession during the last ten yeirs was the donation of the Rev. R. Forrest, containing 855 volumes. A catalogue, 16 pages 8vo., was printed in 1848. The library is open for one hour on Thursday of every week fn termn time7 and the use of it is free to all persons connected with the institution. H~ Connelly, librarian. NEW YORK CITY. Mercantile Library Association-31,674 vols.-Founded in 1820. The library contained January l, 1850, 31,674 volumes; a respectable cabinet of specimens in geology and mineralogy; also a small collection of curiosities, belonging to the association. The yearly average number of volumes added to the library, for the last ten years, is 1,561. The yearly average expenditure for books, during the same period, is $2,126 58. A brick building was erected for the association in 1830, at a cost of 853,000. It is 50 feet by 90 feet. The rooms appropriated to the Uise of the association are upon the 2d and 3d stories. The library, lecture room, and directors' room, are on the 2d floor; the reading-rooms and conversation room on the 3d floor. There is no systematic arrangement of the books according to subjects. The' books are placed in alphabetical order, separating languages and fiction, and dividing according to size. The alphabetical arra:ngementhas been adopted solely on account of its practical convenience. Catalogues were printed as follows: 1st, in 1825, in 12mno.; 2d, in 128,' in 12mo.; 3d, in 1830, in 8vo.; 4th, in 1834, in 8vo.; 5th in 1837, prepared by Edward Johnston, esq., in Svo., and supplement in 1840; 6th, alphabetical, with a classified index, in 1844, 300 pp. 8vo.; another is in preparation. The library is open every day from 10) o'clock a. m. to 10t) o'clock p. mn., except Sundays and holidays. Merchants' clerks are entitled to the use of the library, on subscribing the constitution and paying an initiation fee of $1, and;$1 for the first six months. Merchants and others are admitted on the paymient of an annual subscription of $5, but are not eligible to office. More than 75,000 volumes are lent out annually! About 6,)00 persons annually consult the library without taking away books. S. Hastings Grant, librarian. 85, [-1:20] From reports of the directors we gather the following additional facts: "The first public meeting of merchants' clerks, for the purpose of consid-,ring the expediency of establishing a library and reading-room, was held on the 9th of November, 1820. -A subsequent meeting was held on the 27th ofthe sante month, at which a constitution was adopted, and the first officers elected. An appeal was made to the public for money and books; and clerks were invited to become subscribers. The library was opened February 12, 1821, in a room at No. 49 Fulton street, and contained, at that time, 700 volumes. The number was increased before the year expired to 1,000 voltumes. The number of subscribers was 175. "The institution, during the early years of its existence, encountered a good deal of hostility from a class of short-sighlted and narrow-minded merchants, who fancied their clerks could not devote their whole souls to their business if they were allowed the recreation which the library furnished. In 1825 special efforts were made to sustain and, increase the usefulness of the institution; within six months, more than 200 additional members were obtained and subscriptions of money were raised to the amount of $795,,besides many valuable books. During this year the first catalogue-was issued. The next year,1826, the library was removed to more spacious apartments in Cliff street, and a reading-room was established. "In 1827 lectures were established, which have since become one of the most popular and useful parts of the planof the establishment. In Febaroay, 1828, at a meeting of prominent merchants, interested in the success of the institution, it was agreed to raise, by subscription, a suni sulfficient for the erection of a building for the permanent accommodation of the library. TPhe contributors formed themselves into a company called the Clinton Hall Association. The sum of $33,500 was raised dturing the year in sums varying from $1,000 to $100. A building was erected on the corner of Beekman and Nassau streets, and, under the name of Clinton Hall, was dedicated onl the 2d of November, 1830, with appropriate ceremonies, to literature, science, and the arts. The entire cost of the land and buitditg was about $55,000. This left an indebtedness of $21,500, secured by a mortgage which has been gradually reduced to $4,000, which the net incomne of two years, arising from rents of roofms P.ot' occupied by the association, will more than cancel. The Clinton Hall Association stands in the relation of guardian to the Mercantile Library Association; the latter bt ing assured of a fiull and perpetual ownership in the building as effectually as if the title were in its own coporate name. On the removal of the library tothe new building, it numbered 6,000 volumes. "ln 1830 the trustees of Cotlumbia College conferred upon the institution two scholarships, and in 1848 the University of the city of New York placed two foundations at the disposal of the directors of the association. "The class department originated with the board of 1838, and has beei in active operation every succeeding year. lip to January, 1850, 1,2S8 members have received instructions in the following branches: French language, 629; Spanish, 173; German, 93; Italian, 11; book-keeping, 125; penmanship, 89; chemistry, 48; music, 48; elocution, 43; drawing, 11; mathematics, 1t1."' The twenty-ninth annual report, presented January, 1850, contains the following table, exhibiting [120] 86 Annual additions of members and books, expenditures for books, total receipts, ~c. from the 9th of November, 1820, to 1st January, 1850. Years. Members ad- Volumes added. Expended for Expended for mitted. boeks. binding. 1820 204 1,oo 000 $600 0 1822 76 250 150 00. 1823 81 100 273 00..... 1824 77 175 208 00.. 1825 257 675 619 00 $73 00 1826 471 1,,000 756 72 190 28 1827 360 1,'200 695 12 31 38 Th28 295 1,000 330 27 146 25 1829 414 600 562 30 154 28 1830 486 600 567 9l 99 25 1831 507 750 1, 177 19' 68 44 1832 363 864 1,107 36 ]97 55 ]833 382 1,397 1,303 98 224 20 1834 393 1,090 1,278 20 223 29 1835 680 1, 522 2, 126 32 238 51 1836 867 1, 845 2, 2.6 74 250 70 1837' 936 2,547 2,806 47 186 04 1838 1,003 2,471 3, 115 72 423 91 1839 1, 097 3,583 4,278 23 729 60 1840 501 390 1,995 19 615 42 1841 627 1,136 1,445 12 591 75, 1842 308 1, 252 2, 179 79 670 77 1843 252 465 797 90 536 85 1844 387 745 708 35 271 25 1845 582 1, 428 1,628 60 402 65 1846 609 1,883 2(.72 59 500 34 1847- 687 2,258 3, 311 95 549 19 1848 681 2,276 3. 392 71 445 52 1849. 1,013 2,517 3,531 83 600 35 14,616 37,019 45,356 56 8,4 0 77 The directors add: " This account does not show the full value of ourliterary property. The donations of books, in a period of 29 years, are worth several thousands of dollars." There has beei, it is true, a loss by wear and decay of some 6,000 volumes, but these are mainly of trifling value, consisting chiefly of novels, not deemned worthy the expense of rebinding, even in the cheap style necessary to their preservation. Most of the standard books originally purchased or presented, are still preserved in good order." The institution' has lately received a legacy of $3,00 froml Miss Elizabeth Demilt, said to hlave been the first bequest ever made to this library. The Newv York Society Library-35,000 vols. —(346 and 348 Broadway.) The trustees cf the New York Society LUbrary were incorpoQrated the 2d.' of April, 1754. The establishment was engrafted upon the "'Public Library of New York," founded in 170)0. (See Grahame's Uniited States' Minutes of the Coimmon Council of New York,,&c.) Grahame says, "a library was fbunided under the government of Lord Bellamont, in 1700." ~87 [ 2o ] A copy of Clarendon's History of the Rebellion, marked Public Library of New York, 1811," is now in the Society Library. In 1729 the Rev. Dr. Millington, rector of Newington, England, bequeathed his library to the society for the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts. By this society the library of Dr. Millington was presented to the corporation of the city, for the use of the clergy and gentlemen of New York, and the neighboring provinces. The New York Society Library was founded in the year 1754, having for its object, as expressed in the original articles of association, "the use and ornament of the city, and the advantage of an intended college." Smith's History of New York thus adverts to the subject: "In 1754 a set of gentlemen undertook to carry about a subscription towards raising a public library, and in a few days collected near 600 pounds, which were laid out in purchasing about 700 volumes of new, well chosen books" &c. The library of the corporation above alluded to, appearing to have been mismanaged, and at length entirely disused, the trustees of the New York Society Library offered to take charge of it, and to deposite their own collection with it in the City Hall. This proposal having been acceded to by the corporation, the institution thenceforward received'the appellation of " The City Library' -a name by which it was commonly known for a longtime. O)n this foundation the library increased and prospered. In 1772 a charter was granted to it by the colonial government, and the official style of " The New York Society Library" was adopted. The war of the Revolution, however, which soon after occurred, interferedwith'these pleasing prospects. The city fell into the possession of the enemy. The effect on all our public institutions was more or less disastrous, and to the library nearly fatal. An interval of no less than fourteen years here occurs in the history of the society. At length it appears from the minutes, that " the accidents of the late war having nearly destroyed the former library, no meeting of the proprietors for the choice of trustees was held from the last Tuesday of April, 1774, until Saturday, 21st December, 1788, when a meeting was summoned, and the operations of the society were resumed. In 1789 the original charter was revived, ahd the society commenced almost a new collection of books. In 1793 a building was begun for the library in -Nassaul street. In this year tihe first catalogue of the books, with the charter, names of members of the society, &c., wras printed, in 99 pp. Svo. The library is said to have contained, at this time, 5,000 volumes. InI 1813 the second catalogue was published. The library then comprised about 13,000 volumes. In 1825 a supplement was published. The library then contained about 16,000 volumes. In 18336 the trustees sold the property in Nassau street, and purchased a lot in Broadway, on which they have erected thle present edifice. In 183S, when the last catalogue was printed, the library contained 25,000 volumes. In the year 1819 the society received a bequest of $5,000 from Miss Demilt. The library at present (1850) contains 35,000 volumes, a few manuscripts of modern date, maps and charts of great value, a few sheets of an cient church music on vellum, numnaerous collections ot engravings, a small but beautiful collection of bronze medals, onle set of casts of the Elgin mar [ 120 ] 8 bles, forty eightin number, and one set of Waterloo rmedals, fifty in number~ About one thousand volumes are annually added to the library. About two thousand dollars per annum are expended for the purchase of books. There is no permanent fund. The rents of the building, the annual pay, mients and some minor sources, afiord about nine thousand dollars annually.'The debt, however, is large, and leaves but a limited sum for increase. The persons employed in the service of the library are a librarian, assistant, room keeper, janitor, and a boy. A building was first erected for the library in 1794, previous to which the library was kept in the old City Hall. The present edifice was erected expressly for the library its I 838'39, at an expense of forty seven thousand dollars for the land and seventy thousand dollars for the building and furniture. The material is brick, with facade and basement, &c., of brown freestone. It fironts on Broadway 60 feet, and extends back 100 feet of uniform width. The principal floor is divided into two large and two small rooms. There is a lectulreroom below and a picture-gallery above. The arrangement of the books upon the shelves is according to subjects, "but with as many analogous subjects united as possible, in order to avoid the necessity of a corn plicated distribution in restoring continually the volumes returned, to their places." Catalogues of the library are known to have existed before the Revolution, but the dates of their publication are not ascertained. Besides the catalogues of 1793, (99 pages Svo.) 1813, and supplement 1825, (135 pages Svo.,) a catalogue was printed in 18s38, containing 328 pages Svo., a supplement in 1841 of 72 pages, and another in 1843 of 24 pages. A new catalogue with the following title has just been published: "Alphabetical and analytical Catalogue of the New York Society Library, with the charter, by-laws, &c., of the institution, Svo.: New York, 1850." Prefixed t the catalogue are a history of the library; the articles of subscription, 1754;. the charter, 1772; acts of legislature, by-laws, names of trustees since 175-4, and librarians since 1793; alphabetical catalogue, 491L pages; catalogtie of the Winthrop library. (This ancient and curious collection of books was presented by the late Francis B. Winthrop, esq. They were the property of his distinguished ancestor John Winthrop, the fbunder of Connecticut. It contains about 275 volumes.) An analytical index of 112. pages follows the catalogue. This laborious and valuable work was prepared by Mr. P. J. Forbes, the present librarian. It is very handsomely printed. Tqhe library is open daily, Sundays excepted, from 8 a. m. till sunset; but the reading rooms are open till.10 p.m.n. Persons entitled to the use of the library are, members who pay $25 for a right, arid thenre $6 annually, and temporary subscribers at $10 per annum. Strangers bay be introduced, for the use of the books, &c., in the rooms, for one month. The number of members in 1793 was nine hundred. The present number is eleven hundred. Books are lent out, with the exception of very expensive woiks-those of reference, as encyclopedias, dictionaries, bound newspapers, &c. About 2,000 volumes (nearly S8000 works) were charged in eight months.. About 1,500 persons a year consult'the library without taking away books. The trustees have fill power to extend the use of the library to persons at a distance. Philip J. Forbes, librarian. Astor Librory'-20,000) vols.-One of the noblest gifts to learning., of which any city can boast, is that for which not only New York, but 89 [120] this whole country, owes a'debt of lasting gratitude to the memory of John Jacob Astor. The munificertce of the endowment is only equalled by thile judicious, enlightened, and liberal provisions made for its usefulness anrid perpetuity.- Mr. Astor died in 1848. The Astor Library was endowed by the third codicil to his will, which was dated August 22, 1839, and is in these words: "I, John Jacob Astor, do make this' additional codicil to my last will, bearing date the 4th day of July, in the year of our Lord 1836. " Desiriing to render a public benefit to the city of New York, and to contribute to the advancement of usefiul knowledge and the general good of society, I do, by this codicil, appropriate four hundred thousand dollars nut of my residuary estate to the establishment of a public library in the aity of New York. "For this purpose, Igive to my executorsfour hundred thousanddollars, to be taken from my personal estate, or raised by the sale/ of parts of my real estates, to be made by my executors, With the assent of mny son, Williarn B. Astor, upon condition and to the intent that the said amount be settled, applied, and disposed of as follows, namely: " 1. In the erecting of a suitable building for a public library. 2. In furnishing and supplying the same from time to time witi books, maps, charts, models, drawings, paintings, engravings, casts, statues, furniture, and other things appertaining to a library for general Use, upon themost ample scale and liberal character. "3. In maintaining and upholding the buildings and other property, and in defraying the necessary expenses of taking care of the property, and of the accommodation of persons cousulting the library. "The said sum shall be payable one-third in the year after my decease; one third in the year following; and the residue in equal sums, in thie fourth and fifth years after my decease. " rThe said library is to be accessible at all reasonable hours and times, fr gbneral use, free of expense to persons resorting thereto, subject only to such control and regulations as the trustees may from time to time exercise and establish for.general convenience. "The affairs of the institution shall be conducted and directed by eleven trlstees, to be from time to time selected from the different liberal professions and employments in life, and the classes of educated men. The mayor of the city of New York, during his continuance in office, and the chancellor of the State of New York, during his continuance in office, shall always be trustees. The vacancies in the number of trustees occurring by death, resignation, incapacity, or removal from the State, shall be filled by persons appointed by the remaining trustees. The acts of a mnajority of the trustees, at a meeting reasonably notified, shall be valid. " All the property and effects of the institution shall be vested in the said trustees. They shall have power to direct the expenditure of the funds, the investment, safe-keeping, and management thereof; and of the property and effects of the institution; also, to make such ordinances and regula. tionls, from time to time,' as they may think proper, for the good order and convenience of those who may resort to the library, or use the same; also, to appoint, direct, control, and retnove the superintendent of the library and all librarians, and others employed about the institution; and, also, they shall have and use all powers and authority for promoting the expressed objects of this instituttion, not contrary to what is herein expressed. [ 120] 90 They shall not receive ally compensation for their services, except that if any one of their number shall at any time be appointed superintendent, he may receive compensation as such. "The trustees shall be subject to the visitation of the proper courts of justice, for the purpose of preventing and redressing all Mismanagement waste, or breach of trust. [By a subsequent codicil the testator authorized the trustees to select a site on the east side of Lafayette Place, to contain 65 feet front and rear, and 120 feet deep.] "I further direct, that a sum not exceeding seventy-five thousand dollars may be expended in the erection of a building for the library; one hundred and twenty thousand dollars may be expended in the purchase of books and other objects for the establishing of the library; and the residue shall be invested as a fund for the maintaining and gradually increasing of the library. " All investment of the funds of the institution shall be made in the public debt of the United States of America, or of the States of the Union, or of the city of New York, as long as such subjects of investment may be had, giving a preference according to the order in which they are namned. And in case the income of the fund shall at any time exceed the amounts which the trustees may find useful to expend for the purposes above named and particularized, they may expend such surplus in procuring public lectures to be delivered in connexionr with the library, upon usefill subjects of literature, philosophy, science, history, and the fine arts, or in promoting in any other mode the objects of thile institution, as above expressed. I direct my executors to cause and procure the necessary legal assurances to be made for establishing and securing the application of the funds and property hereby appropriated for the purposes of these presents, and in the mode herein pointed out. And it is my request that the trustees would apply to the legislature of this State for such acts as may fully secure, establish, anrid perpetuate this institution, and render its mlianagement easy, convenient, and safe, both to themselves and the public. Arind as this property is devoted wholly to public purposes, I trust that the legislature will so far favor the institution as to exempt its property from taxation. And, as a mark of my respect to the following gentlemen, I name them to be the first trustees: that is to say, the mayor of the city of New York and the chancellor of the State for the time being, in respect to their offices; Washington Irving, W. B. Astor, Daniel Lord, junior, James G. King, Joseph G. Cogswell, Fitz Green Halleck, Henry Brevoort, junior, Samuel B. Ruggles, and Samuel Ward, junior. [By a further codicil the testator appointed Mr. Charles A. Bristed one'of the trustees; and also authorized thile funds of the library to be invested in bonds, secured by mortgaged improved real estates.] " In witness whereof, I have set my hand and seal to this codicil, and publish thie same as a codicil to my will, this twenty second day of An. gust, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty-nine. "JOHN JACOB ASTOR. [L. s.]" The Trustees of the Astor Library were incorporated by the legislature of the State, 18th January, 1849. Thle act of incorporation corresponds in all respects with the provisions of Mr. Astor's will, with the following additional provisions:'' The property, real and personal, of the said corporation, shall be ex 91[ 120] empt from taxation in the same manner as that of the other incorporated lIblic libraries of this State; and it shall be the duty of the said trustees to effect such insurances as can be obtained upon said buildings and library, and other property, against loss by fire or otherwise, and pay the expenses thereof out of the fund described in the fourth subdivision of section second of this act. "The said trustees shall, in the month of Jaiuary in every year, make a report to the legislature for the year ending on the 31st day of December preceding, of the condition of the said library, of the funds and other property of the corporation, and of its receipts and expenditures during such year. " If any debts of the said corporation, lawfully contracted, shall not be paid out of its funds, when due, the trustees shall be individually liable for such funds, to the creditors in such cases, and to such extent as they'would be if not incorporated." From the " Literary World" (September 22, 1849) we take the following description of the building now in progress for the Astor Library. This account was originally published in the New York "Journal of Commerce ": " It will be built in the Byzantine style, or rather in the style of the royal palaces of Florence, and consequently will present a strongly imposingappearance, both in its external and internal structure. Its dimensions will be 120 feet in length by 65 wide, and ftiom the level of the side-wallk to the upper line ot the parapet its height will be 67 feet; built of brown cut stone, and brick; very little wood will enter into its composition. We are informed that no building in the United States, of this character, will be formed to such a large extent of iron. According to'the estimates, the ironwork will form one of the heaviest expenditures. Its uses, too, will be altogether novel, at least in this country, and ingenious. For instance, the truss beams, supporting the principal weight of the-roof, will be conistructed of cast-iron pipes, in a parabolic form, on the same plan with the iron bridges in France and other parts of Europe, with a view to secure lightness and strength.'CThe library hall, which will occupy the second floor of the edifice, will be a truly elegant apartment, 100 feet in length by 60 wide in the clear. The ascent from the front will be by a single line of thirty-eight Italian marble steps, decorated on either side at the entrance by a stone sphinx. Upon nearing the summit of these steps the visitor finds himself near the centre of this immense alcove, surrounded by 14 brick piers, plastered and finished in imitation of Italian m arble, and supporting iron galleries midway between the floor and the ceiling. The side walls fiom'pit to dome' form one continuous shelving of a capacity sufficient for 100,000 volumes. This is reached by means of the main gallery, in connexion with which are four iron spiral stairways, (one firom 6ach corner of the building,),and an intervening gallery of a lighter and smaller description, also connected by its staircases, eight in number, with the main gallery. T'he whole are very ingeniously arranged, and appropriately ornamented in a style corresponding with the general architecture of the building. At an elevation of 51 feet above the spectator is the principal sky-light54 feet long by 14 broad, and formed of thick glass set in iron. Besides this are circular side sky-lights of much smaller dimensions. All needful light is thus furnished, in connexion' with the windows in the front tlro: 92 and rear Walls. Free ventilation is also had by means of iron fret-work inserted in suitable portions of the ceiling. In the extreme rear are rthe two librarians' rooms, to which access is had by means of the main galleries. "''he first floor wvill contain the lecture and reading-rooms, with accomllodations for 500 persons. The latter are located on each side of the building, and separated from the library hall stairway at the firont entrance by two corridors leading to the rear vestibule, and fiorom thence to the -lecture room, still further in the rear. The basement contains the keeper's iroosiS, cellars, coal vaults, hot-air furnaces,:&c. rThe floors are composed of richly wrought mosaic work, resting on iron beamns.'"The library building in its exterior, especially as seen from the street, will present an appearance at once grand and imposing. The basement story will be faced with high rustic ashIer, projecting six inches, thus inmparting an extremely bold relief. The window frames are placed near the inside line of the wall, forming deep recesses, in order to secure the same effect. These consist primarily of six, occupying the central portion and admitting light to the library hall, placed three above and three below a given point-the upper connected with the lower by columns supported by figures representing the genii of literature. Between these sets of windows is inscribed'Astor Library, 1849.' The remaining windows are two in number, one on either side of the entrance, and connected with the lecture room. "'The amount authorized to be expended in the erection of the building is $75,000, and the contract is made within this sumr of course, exclusive offurniture and shelving. The latter will cost probably $,8,000. Two years it is expected will be required to complete it. The architect is Mr. Alexander Saeltzer, from Berlin, a pupil of the celebrated Schinkel. The entire appropriation for the library and building is $400,000, of wvhich about one-half is to be funded for the benefit of the library, thutis insuring to it a perpetuity such as similar institutions but seldom possess. Througll the efforts of Mr. J. G. Cogswell, in England and on the continent, about 20,000 volumes have been collected, and are now in his keeping at No. 32 Bond street, where' they are accessible to visitors, though the public are not generally aware of the fact." The excellent management of this admirable institution is, we presume, mainly due to the learning, energy, and practical good judgment of the librarian, Joseph Green Cogswell, L.L. D. At his suggestion an early appropriation was made for the purchase of books, at a time when the revolutions of Europe offered the best opportunity that has ever occurred to buy books cheap. rl'he result is seen in the opening of the library with a superb collection of 20,000 volumes, purchased at probably onehalf, or perhaps one quarter of the price that they would have commanded at other times. Library of the New York Historical Society-17,000 vols. This so. ciety was founded in 1804: incorporated in 1809. Its library (January 4, 1849) contained: Printed books and pamphlets - -. 15,000 Bound volumes of nespapers - 1,395 MSS., original letters-'papers, &c. - - 15,00() Maps and charts - - -. - 2,100 Engravings, several hundred-say -. 400 ~~~93 [ 120]j Medals, about. 200 Coins, about. -. 1,400 Also an extensive collection of Indian relies, curiosities, &c.; also, a collection of portraits, busts, &c. As nearly all the additions are from donations, it is difficult to ascertain, from the records, the yearly average increase. The number added du. ring the year 1848, (printed books and pamphlets,) was 1,290). From one to two hundred dollars are annually expended for the purchase of books. The society has no funds; the library is supported by annual subscriptions of its members. The society occupies leased rooms in the University of the city of New York. A catalogue, prepared by Rev. Timothy Alden, and the only one printed, was published in 1813, 139 pp. 8vo. A complete catalogue has recently been prepared, and is soon to be put to press. The library is open daily from 10 until 2 in the morning, and from 4 to 6 in the evening, in summer, and from 7 to 9;in winter. Members of the society, and persons introduced by members, are entitled to the use of the books. Books are only to be consulted in the library. The yearly average number of persons consulting the library is estimated at five hundred. Jacob B1. Moore, librarian. Since the above account was written, Mr. J. B. Moore has been appoint. ed postmaster in. San Francisco, and has left his charge in New York. His son, George H. Moore, has succeeded him as librarian. The sum of thirty-five thousand dollars has already been obtained for the erection of a suitable building for the meetings of the society, and the preservation of its valuable collections. Of this sum, five thousand dollars were friont a bequest of Miss Elizabeth Demilt, of New York, received in 1849. Mr. James Lenox subscribed five thousand dollars. Library of the Union Theological Seminary-17:,000 vols. —The library of this institution was founded in 1838. It is sometimes called, by courtesy, "The Vain Ess Library," as having been purchased of the Rev. Leander Van Ess, of Germany. It contains about 17,000 volumes, mostly theological. About-700 volumes were added in 1847 by gift, and others occasionally in like manner. The average annual increase cannot be stated. The library occupies a hall in the seminary building, No. 9 University Place. The room is a pa rallelogram, about 65 feet in length, much broken by windows and badly contrived. The books are arranged on the shelves according to size. There is only a MS. catalogue. The, library is opened each week day, except Saturday, from 10 o'clock a. m. to 3 or 4 p. m.; closed from the 3d Wednesday in June to the 3d Wednesday in September. Persons entitled to the use of the library are: all connected with the seminary, and those who-may have permission from a professor. The books are lent: out. Of the number no, estimate can well. be. made. Rev. Edward Robinson, D. D., librarian. Columbia Col/e2e Library-12,740 vols. —Columbia College received its charter in 1754., The library was founded about the year 1757. About thistinme Mr. Joseph Murray "'bequeathed to the college property worth about ~8,000, including his library." Rev. Dr. Bristowe, of London, also bequeathed his library of about 1,100 volumes. From these sources, from purchases, fromn, presents by the Earl of Bute and-others, and from the University of Oxford, the college was in possession of a considerable libirary; when, on the 6th of April, 1776, the treasurer of the [ 120] 94 college was ordered to prepare it in six days for the reception of troops. "cThe students were in consequence dispersed, the library and apparatus were deposited in the City Hall or elsewhere, and the college edifice was converted into a military hospital. Almost all the apparatus, and a large proportion of the books belonging to the college, were wholly lost to it in consequence of this removal; and of the books recovered, 600 or 700 were so only after about thirty years, when they were found, with as many belonging to the New York Society library, and some belonging to Trinity Chutrch, in a room in St. Paul's chapel, where, it seemed, no one but the sexton had been aware of their existence, and neither he nor anybody else could tell how they had arrived there." [See Moore's Historical Sketch of Columbia College, page 62.] In 1792 "a large addition to the College Library was made by a grant of money obtained fiom the legislature. In 1813 the college purchased the library of Professor Kemp. In 1838 it purchased thei.library of Professor Moore, who was'employed for about a year in making a new arrangement and a catalogue of the whole library.'" The library contains (1849) 12,740 volumes, exclusive of pamphlets, which, if bound, would form about 500 volumes more. A single Egyptian papyrus, several volumes of engravings, a series of 48 bronze medals illustrative of the Elgin marbles, and two marbles bearing Greek inscriptions, though of little interest, belong to the library. About 120 volumes have been added annually for the last ten years, and about $200 expended annuaVy for the purchase of books. The library room is 44 feet by 26; and has, both on its lower floor and gallery, five alcoves on each side, lighted by as many windows. There is no printed catalogue. The library is opened twice a week while the college is in" session, and firom one to three o'clock p. m. each time. The officers of the college and the students of the three higher classes use the library, and without charge. Books are lent out, about six hundred annually. The yearly average number of persons consulting the library without taking out books is about one hundred and ten. Lefroy Ravenhill, librarian. The Apprentices' Library-14,000 vols.-The General Society of Me. chanics and Tradesmen (Nos. 32 and 34 Crosby street) was founded A. D. 1785. The Apprentices' Library, established in 1820 by this society, contains about 14,000 volumes, kept for the gratuitous use of the apprentices of the city. [New York State Register, 1845, page 319.] Library of the Theological Institute of the Episcopal Ohurch-tO,000 vols.-The American Almanac, for 1850, gives the date of the foundation of this institution as 1817, and states the number of volumes in its libraries to be 10,000. Library of the New York Hospital-6,000 vols.-The Society of the New York Hospitat, New York city, was founded in 1770, and incorporated June 13, 1771. The following account of its library is taken from a pamphlet, published in 1846, containing the charter, laws, &c., of the society, and of the Bloomingdale Asylum, page 68: "Upon the recommendation of the medical faculty of Columbia College, the governors of the hospital, in August, 1796, appropriated the sum of $500 towards the purchase of a medical library, to which the members of that faculty contributed books from their private libraries, and part of their fees of public instruction. A hospital library was thus instituted, which was further augmented by the purchase of the medical library of the late 95 [120] Dr. Romrnayne, in 1800, and by the accession, in 1805, of the library of a private association of physicians, then called'The Medical Society of New York,' who gave their books on condition that they, and such of their sons as should become practitioners of medicinD6 in the city of New York, should have free use of the hospital library. In 1805 the governors appropriated the annual sum of $250 for the purchase of books; and other larger additions were afterwards made to it, by special purchases and donations from time to time, amongst which was the valuable botanical library of Dr. Hosack, bought by tile hospital. "For some years past there have been appropriated for the support and increase of this library all the proceeds arising from the sale of tickets to students of medicine, which permit themr to see the practice of the house, to attend the clinical instruction,. and to take books from the library. The moneys thus accruing are appropriated to the purchase of medical and scientific publications, selected by the library committee, (composed of three governors, one physician, and one surgeon,) to the payment of the librarian's salary, binding, and other contingencies. "ClThe annual average expenditures and receipts on account of the purchase of books, are now from $500 to $800. "The library now consists of more than 5,000 volumes, confined entirely to medicine and surgery, and those collateral branches of science (as chemistry, botany, &c.) specially connected with the healing art. It is believed to be as useful and complete in this department as a library can be made in that number of volumes, and contains many of the most splendid and costly works on anatomy and natural history. During the last year the governors have fitted up, in the large hospital building, two spacious apartments, one above the other, communicating by a central spiral staircase, and deposited the library in them, the lower room being used as a reading and consultation chamber." Books may be lent free of charge to the present or former governors, physicians, surgeons, apothecaries, and other officers of the hospital; to all donors of books (approved by the library committee,) or money to the amnount of $25; and to other persons on the payment of $5 a year. A catalof.ue of the books (194 pages 8vo.) was published in 1845. It is very wed prepared. It is alphabetical, with an alphabetical and analytical index. The present librarian is John L. Vandervoort. Library of the American Institute-6, 000 vols. -"The American Institute of the city of New York was organized January, 1828; incorporated May 2, 1829; for the purpose of encouraging and promoting domestic industry. The library contains about 6,000 volumes, mostly works of reference for the mechanic, the manufacturer, the farmer, and the,statesman. It is open, free of expense to all strangers and is conducted on more liberal principles than any other library in our country." [New York State Register, 1845, page 320.] Library of the New York Law Institute —-4424 vols.-The New York Law Institute was incorporated February 22, 1830. Its library, composed almost exclusively of law books, contains (1850) 4,424 volumes. Its average increase is about 225 volumes a year. From thecommence merit of the institution to 1850, the sum of $21,894 had been expended for books, making a yearly average of $1,094 70. The annual income, varying from $1,200 to $1,5U0, is derived from charges for membership, ($80 for each member.) [120] 96 The corporation of the city at present furnishes two' rooms in the City Hall for the accommodation of the institute. The one used for the library' is 50 feet by 56. The conversation room is 18 by 33. A catalogue was published in 1842, containing 120 pages 8vo. This catalogue, prepared by Lewis-H. Sanford, contains also "a chronological list of contemporary English reporters." The library is open daily from 81 o'clock a in. to 6 p. m. Only those members of the New York bar who belong to. the institute are entitled to the use of the books; but those who do not practise law in the city, Kings county, or Jersey Gity, and strangers generally, are permitted to use the library free of charge. No book is allowed to be taken out of the library except to be used in the different courts in the City Hall. Thile present librarian is H. S. Dodge, 54 Wall street. Libraries of the University of the city of New Yorlc-4,000 vols.-This institution was founded in 1831. In the Americ an Almanac for 1850 the number of volumes is stated as above. In the report of the regents of the New York University, for 1850, the value of the library of the university is stated to be $7,000. The Library of the Mechanics' Ilstitute -3,000 vols.-The Mechanics' Institute of New York, 105 Bowery, New York city, was founded in the winter of 1830-'31, and incorporated April 24,1833. The library contains at present about 3,000 volumes. rThe funds of the institute are derived from assessments ofmembers, school-f1irs, exhibitions, lectures, &c. A catalogue of the library was printed in 1835, containing 26 pages 12mo.; and another in 1844, of 64 pages Svo. The library is open daily, Sundays excepted. Members only are entitled to the ise of it; others may be admitted by courtesy. The books are lent out, with the exception of large and valuable works. Edward Henry, actuary and librarian. " This institution was founded for the purpose of promoting the general diffusion of useful knowledge among the mnechanical classes by means of lectures on natural and mechanical philosophy and other scientific subjects; by founding alibrary and mu.,eum,; by forming class.es for mutual improvement; holdin~g conversational meetings, debates, and discussios for the benefit of its members; by having from timne to time public exhibitions for the promotion of excellence in the mechanical arts; and by establishing schools for educating on the most approved principles, as well as on, the most reasonable terms, the apprentices and children of its members. D)uring the brief space of time this institution has existed, all and even more has been accomplished than its deserving founders could reasonably have expected. "Connec-ted with the library is a reading-room, amply supplied with the mnost popular and scientific American and foreign periodicals. "The terms on'which persons may become members, and with their families enjoy all the privileges of the library, reading.room, lectures, meetings, debates, classes, exhibitions, school,; &c., are: initiation fee, $1l, and a yearly payment of $2. Life membership $25.". Printers' Readi.g-Room and Library-2,500 vols. The New York Typographical Society was instituted in 18S09, for the purpose: of affording relief to indigent and distressed members and their families, and to other proper objects of charity. In 1-818 the society was incorporated; re-chartered-in 1832 for fifteen years; and in 1847 incorporated underthe general law of the State, enacted in 1848. The members commenced making do 97 [ 120] nations of books to establish a library in 1823; contributions have been made from time to time, and at present the library numbers about 2,500,volumes, comprising many valuable works in nearly every department of literature. The increased interest manifested in the society during the past year has extended to the library. Many valuable donations of books havebeen received from publishers and others, and the society has been encouraged to procure a suitable room for the library and reading-room, as well as for social intercourse. The success of this commnuendable project seems now to be fully assured. [See'address of Peter C. Baker, printed in " Proceedings at the Printers' Banquet, January 17, 1850:'9 Svo: New York. The rooms obtained for library and reading room are at 300 Broadway. Address C. C. Savage, 13 Chambers street.] Library of te Lyceumn of Natural History- 1 653 vols. —The Lyceumof, Natural History, in the city of New York, was founded in 1SIS. The library contains 1,653 volumes, consisting chiefly of works'on natural history, voyages, travels, &c., containing natural history, and the transactions of kindred societies. The lyceum has, also, extensive collections in mineralogy, geology, fossils, conchology, ichthyology, entomology, amphibia, reptiles, radiata, corals, botany, and small collections of birds and quadrupeds. Very few books have been purchased.i Nearly all are donations from. individuals, or have been received from societies in exchange for the publications of the lyceum. The rooms occupied by the society consist of three large apartments on the 2d floor of the large fire — proof building, No. 659 Broadway, and known as the medical department of the University of the city of New York. Thre premises are leased,. by the lyceum, of the Medical Faculty for the term of ten years. A catalogue ofthe books Was printed in 182., Svo.; another in 1830, 72 pp. 8vo.* A new one has been prepared, and will shortly be printed. The library is open every Monday evening, during the: meeting of the society. Members have access at any time, on application to the librarian. Books are lent out to members Persons of standing in science, residing at'a distance, hAve, by special vote of the society, been allowed to take out any'work from the library. This is seldom done. Any person'not a memnber, wishing to consult the books, can do so on application to the librarian. Robert H. Browlvne, 39 Crosby street, librarian. ile Americaln and Foreign Bible Society possesses a library, which, according to the Baptist Almanac for 1850, contrnts 1,576 volumes. 7'/T, College oj' Physicians anzld Sgeons in the city of New Ybrkl possesses:a library of 1,200 volunmes., valued at $1,500. [Regents' report, 1850.]' The American']_thnoloogical Soci. ety, Netw York city.-The object of the society, thus far, has been the preparation and publication of original memoirs on ethnology. A few hundred pamphlets and books have been presented, a list of which is prefixed to the 2d volume of its transactions. It is intended to form a cabinet at an early day.. John Russell Bartlett, secretary. t'ree Academy r.f Nmew York City.-Tlis establishment has but recently commenced operations. Preparations for a library are making, which, it is hoped, may be realized at no distant day. Horace Webster, president.. Mis.-7 [120o 9g POUGHMEEPSIE. Library of the Lyceum- of Literature', Srcienlce, and Afechalic Arg: — Founded April 6, 1838. Contains about 650'volumes, of which 2995 are periodicals and pamphlets; a small collection of manuscripts, maps, charts, engravings; large collections of minerals and natural curiosities. Increases at the rate of about 1M00 volumes, annually. A catalogue in 12mo. gWas printed in 1845. Open daily from I to 8 p. m., Sundays excepted. The Library of the L,yceum is free to remrnbers and their families, to whomn books are lent out. The lyceum furnishes the public, gratuitously7 with a course of weekly lectures, from distinguished mew, during the winter. This has been kept up for several years. J. J. Underhill, R. C. Southwick, C Swan, committee. T.he Public Library, occupies the rooms of the lyceum; and contains over 3,000 volumes. RO CHE STER. Athenalum Library-5,050( vols.-Founded in 1832. The library contains 5,050 volumes, 18 maps, and a small collection of minerals. A public building has been erected, one half of which is occupied by the athenmeum, and the other by the;"Library of the Court of Appeals." Above is a splendid hall for lectures, 52 feet by 70, and 27 feet high, called "'Corinthian tall." The library rooms are 80 feet long, 34 feet wide, and 15 feet high. A'catalogue was printed in 1847, (40 pages 8vo.;) another is in press. The library is open every day (Sundays excepted) from 8 o'clock a. mi to 9 p. in.. Any person, by paying one dollar per annum, can, become a member of the association. Two books can be taken out on one name, and they are usually, kept out from two to four days. About 2,000 per week are thus-lent. L. R. P. Stockton, librarian. Library of the Court of Appeals-Contains 3,400 volumes,of law and miscellaneous books, a part of the old Chancellor's Library of the State of Ne v York. This is the proper place to notice a publication of great value to the bar of this city, and whlicl deserves to be imitated in other places. It is "4A catalogue of law books in the different libraries in Rochester on the 31st August, 1847, with references to the several owners of each, by William F. Liddle. Svo., 55 pages: Rochester, 1S47." This catalogue contains tile law-books in 63 private libraries, besides those in the public library. The catalogue is alphabetical, and under each title all the attorneys owning the books are referred to by means- of numbers. An index of subjedts is appended to the cataloguee. S C HENE CTADY. UTion College Libraries — 4,526 vois.- The college library, was founded (with the college) in 1795, and contains 7,776 volumes. The yearly average number of volumes added to the library for the last ten years is 468. The annual expediture for books during the same period is $400 39. An imperfect catalogue, intended merely for present use while the librarian 12o 0] is preparing one more perfect, was printed in 1846, (80 pages 12rno.) Tlie new catalogue is nearly completed. The library is opened twice a week,,one hour each time. Officers, studetlts, and resident graduates are entifled to the use of the library. About 2)110 volumes are lent out annually. Jonathan Pearson, librarian. The societies of under graduates possess 6,750 volumes. Librar of the. Young ern's' s Association —3,200 vols. SO.iERS Puic Library —210 olts, TROYe Library vf the Younor Men s Association —4,000 vols. —Tlis association was fountded in 1835. The library contains 4,000 volumes, 8maps, and 40 engravings. The yearly average increase is about IS0 volumes; the average expenditure about $1I00 per annuni. There is a small fund of $19800, raised by the saIe of life-meinbership tickets, the interest of which goes into the contingeut fund for general expenses. The library room is -36 feet by 18, newspaper room 40 by:O0, and one roomi 36 by 18, containangy 200 volumes of newspapers bdund, A catalogue (32 pages Svo.) was printed in 1845. The library is open for the delivery of books from 11 to 1 o'clock, and from 7 to 9 in the eveninlg, of every weekd-cay. All members of the association are entitled to free access to the library, at all hours of the day, by an annual payment of $2. Clergymen of all denominations are honorary members, and entitled to all the benefits of the as-:socia ion. Books are lent out to nmembers of the association-about 14,000 annuaiilly. About 3,000 persons consult the library annually without taking away books. Te Ly/nceio f' Natural History possesses a library, besides a valuable cabinet. UTICA. Library of the Y;unig Men's Association-2,200 vo,Ts. WEST POINT. Library of the United States Military Academy —15,000 vols. —This library was founded in 1812, and contains (January 1, 1.849) about 15,000 volumes, exclusive of pamphlets. It has, of manuscripts, 4 volumes. maps and charts, 100. music, 4 volumes. engravings, 55 volumes. busts, 4. paintings, Cportraits)' 10. LHeI:20 ] 100 Additions to the Iib-rary sin~ce 1838: In 1838, 250 volumnes, Ln 1843, 171 voilum6. 1839, 602 6" 1844; 50 1840, 159 18S45, 130 1841, 377' " 1846, 25 1842, 108 " 1847, 50 AveraQe, 192 volumes per annum. Average expenditure, for the last ten years, $838 43. There is' no permanent fund for the increase of the library. There is usually an appropriation made by Congress of $1,000 annually for thile library, but for thie years 1846, 1847, and 184S, no such appropriation was made. The sum of $1,500, however, was given for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1849. The library occupies one wing of a gneiss building, of the Elizabethan style of Gothic architecture, erected in 1840 and 1S41. The remaining portion of the building contains four public offices and rooms for philosophical apparatus; the east tower bearing a transit instrument, the middle one an equatorial telescope, and the west one a mural circle. The cost of the entire building was $50,216 S6. The library-room is 46 feet square, with a' gallery and two tiers of cases. Height of room 31 feet. The books are arranged up,) the shelves according to subjects-alphabetl;ically under subjects. There are two printed catalogues-the first, August, 1822, 22 pp. Svo.; the second, 1830), 132 pp. Svo.; and one in manuscript, nearly complete, will probably be printed soon. The library is open daily, Sundays excepted, between S and 12 a. mn., and between 1 p. in. and sunset. Only members of the institution and officers residing at the post are entitled to the use of the books. - adets may draw books on Saturday, to be returned on the ensuing Monday-at other timnies by special permission of the sulperintendent inl writing. Officers can draw four volumes- professors, eight volumes-for a period not exceeding two m-ionths. The annual number drawn is on an average 1,0'70. The yearly average number of persons consulting the library without taking out books is between 6,000 and 7,000, exclusive of strangers, of.whom there are a good many who visit the library during the summer. The officers are a librarian, a member of the academic staff; and an assistant librarian, a private soldier. The office of librarian is at present (January, 1849) vacant. Andre Freis is the assistant librarian. ACADEAMY LIBRARIES, (157 IN _NUMBER)-66,442 VOLS. The annual reports of the Regents of the University of the State of New York enable us to give (what we would gladly be able to furnish with respect to tlie other States of the Union) an exact list of the academy libraries, with the number of volumnes contained in each. The volumes in the libraries for the last three years number as follows: No. of academies., No. of volumes. Average number. In 1,$48, 1i53 academies reported........ 63,365 414 In 1849, 154....do d............. 6.,524 424 In 1850, 157........do do............ 66,442 423 101 [120] The following list of academies, with the number of volumes in the academic library, and the value of the library, is taken from the 63d annual report of the regents, made to the legislature March 1, 1850: Naames of academies. No. of volumes Value of library. in theacademic library. Academy at Little Falls...:3 4 329 0o Addison Academy. 166 15S 00 Albany Academy.............. 797 1, 645 00 Albany Female Academy........ I 1958 00 Albany Femnale Seminary............. 707 900 00 Albion Academy........................ 358 397 00 Alfred Academy..........4.5....... 398 t0 Amenia Seminary....................... 1,837 1,698 00 Ames Academy... 2:70 280 00 Amsterdam Female Seminary.. 397 390 003 Argyle Academy..1................... 26 194 00 Auburn Academy.............. Itsf 164 00 Auburn Female Semninary..... 112 153 00 Augusta Academy...................3 301 00 Aurora Academv.... 615 566 00 Ball Seminary............. 130 159 00 Binghamiton Academy.... 587 650 (10 Brockport Collegiate Institute.... 185 198 00 Brookfield Academy.................... 141 156 00 Brooklyn Female Academy..... 1,660 1 220 00 Cambridge Washington Academy......... 306 498 00 Canandaigua Academy..... 528 400 ~0 Canajoharie Academy...... 189 277 00 Canton Academy............. 125 180 00 Cary Collegiate Seminary.........307 374 00 Cayuga Academy....... 322 396 00 Champlain Academy....... 37 272 00) Cherry Valley Academy..129 211 00 Chester Academy............... 170 217 00 Claverack Academy.. 346 221 00 Clinton Academy.............. 345 232 00 Clinton Grammar School.... 340 250 00 Clinton Liberal Institute................. 177 1, 000 00 CloverStreet Seminary.... 325 225 00 Cortland Academy.. 1, 086 1,100 00 Cortlandville Academy..... 474 461 00 Coxsackie Academy..313 150 00 Delaware Academy. 771 1,026 00 Delaware Literary Institute..... 685 b20 00 lie Ruyter Institute.. 242 345 00 Dltchess County Academy....... 276 190 00 East Bloomfield Academy................ 361 360 00 ~ P2O ] 102 1JIST OF ACADEMl1ES —Continued. Narnes of acadeanies. No. of volumes Value of library. in the academic library... Elmira Academy...., 348 $288 10 Erasmus lHall Academly..... 2,065 496 0f F'airfield Academy............. 401 840 01) Falley Seminary................... 202 190 0(f FarmTier's Hall Academy..379 182 00' Fayetteville Academy.................... 225 2-35 ()00 Fort Covington Academy... 1 161 0 Franklin Academy, (Malone).. 173 23 00 Franklin Academy, (Prattsburgh)...1. 1,82 419 000 Fredo'nia Academy............ 1,471 620 n00 Friendship XAcaderriy......... 17 1i8 00 Galwway Acadetlmy... 90.......... 90 317 00 GetIesee Wesleyan Seminary..... 1, 67'7 1, 460 00 Genesee and -Wyoming Seminary........ 412 425 00 Geneseo Academy................... 777 300 01) Genoa Acaden................133 202 Gilbertsvilleelcademy and CollegiateInstitute 320} 401 00' Glens Falls Academy.............. 258 263 00 Gouverneur Wesleyaun Seminary 3..... 36 400 00 Grammar School: of Columbia Collere. 862 362 00 Grammar School Univ. Citv of New;York... none............ Grainvlle Amy............. a.' 2 188 00 Greenbuish and Schodack Academy.. - 82 150 O0 Greenville Acadeiny........... 1...... 165 180 00 Groton Academy........... 29 334 (00} Harmilton Academy.. s05 SO00 00 Hartwick Seminary.............. 8.54 155 00 Hobart Hall Institute.............. 588 469 00 Hubbardsville Academy............... 97 53 00 Hudson Academy..................... 151 189 00 Ithaca Academy..................... 444 4.34 00 Jamestown Academy........:... 20, 26 00} Jeflerson Academy...'197 166 00 Jefferson County Institute.............. 72 623 00 Johnstown Academy.............. 187 1 )-00 Jordain Academy............... 203 300 0 IKeeseville Academy.y.. ~*.~ - e - * * 218 2S1 00 Kinderhook Academy..........60)0 00 Kingsboro' Academy.............. 154, 11 00 Kingston Academy...........'... 534 500 00 Lainjsinigburgh Academy...4:.41 570 00( Le Roy F'euale Se1minar...y...... 581 573 3 00 -Liberty Nornal Institute.... 19 161 00 Lowville Academy.............. 328 167 00 10o3 [ 120 LIST OF A-CADEMIES-Continued. Names of academies. No. of volumes Value of library. in theacademic library. Maeddon Academy....................... 129 $153 00 Manlius Academy........ 364 273 (00 Ma-ayvlie Academy............ 171 152 00 Mexico Academy..... 480 640 00 Middlebury Academy... 736 7'z2 00 Millville Academy....................... 193 1 80 Of) Monroe Academy..................1...... 144 159 00 Montgomery Acadeny.................... 398 10 00 Moravia Institute........... 45 40 9 00 Mo:u~nt Pleasa nt Academrn................ 1, 320 1, 02-0 00 Munro Academy.......... 314 308'00( New Berlin Academy................... 201 176 00 Newburgh Academy...................... 414 370 00 New Paltz Academy................*. 237 282 00 New York Free Academy * 4........... not stater]. 369 00 North-Salern Academy....... 253 524 00 Norwich Academy....................- 558 45 5 050 Nunda Literary Institute................ 191 192 00 Ogdensburgh Academy.................. 312 393 00 Oneida Confeience Seminary... 1 31 1,3 28 00 Onondaga Academy..................... 504 456 00 Ontario Female Semiinary... 559 478 00 Ovid Academy................... 428 330 00 Owego Academy... 219 231 00 Oxford Academy........................ 1,219 9022 00 Peekskill Academy...................... 283 207 00 Phipps Union Seminary............... 383 4- 6 00 Platts burgh Academry. 146 215 00 Pornpey Academy...........:351 374'00 Poughkeepsie Female Adademy.. -....... 213 186 110 Prattsville Academy........... 201 150o 00 Red Creek Union Academy................88 206 0() -Rensselaer Institute.........407 11,035 00 Rensselaervitle Academry................... 97 169 00 Rhinebeck Academy..... 2t*..... 3. 086 2 00 Riga Academy............. 141 224 00 Rochester Collegiate Institte.............. 284 328 00 Rochester Female Academy............... I. 0 176 0 Ronme Acalemy...... 133 177 00 Rutgers Female Institute... 2 3.1 4..1. (1,3030 sag rHarbor Institute............. - 95 125 00 St. Lawrence Academy................. 649 4:28 00 $Sanld Lake Academy,............... 242 181 00 ISauquoit Academy...... e 0 0 A * a I * e * e 83 171 00 E1a20J o104 LIST ORF ACADEMIES-Continued. Names of academies.. No. of volumfs Value'of library. in the academic litbrary... Schenectady Lyceunm and Academy.....,.. 325 90 00 Schoharie Academy.................... 21. 9 272 00 Schuylerville Academy..........16 73 00 Seneca Falls Academy............... 245 4:38 00 Seward Female Seminary................ 3.58 401 00( Sherbirnle Union Academy.............. 514,521 00 Spencertown Academy......... 213 159 00 Sprinlgville Academy.......127 80 00 S. S. Seward Institute...................2 1 50 00 Starkey Seminary..................860 539 00 Stillwater Seminary................. 304 361 00 Troy Academy................. 338 300 00 Troy Female Seminary........... 909 1, 379 00 Union Hall Academy............... 464 634 00 Union Iliterary Society................ 132 121 00 Union Village Academy..... 432 337 00 Utica Academy...... 185 235 00 Utica Female Academy.................. 76 154 00 Vernon Academy.............. 374 320 00 Wallkill Academy...318 330 00 Walwokth Academy..........114 16... 1 14 4J0 Washington Academy. 359 350 ()0 Westfield Academy........... 424- 478 00 Whitehall Academy........1........ 180 164 00. Whitesboro' Academy............. 153 100 00 Whitestown Seminary................ 821 880- 00 Wilson Collegiate Institute...671 627 00 Windsor Academy....... 189 00 Yates Academy...................... 329 324 00 Totals................... 66, 442 69, 881 SCHOOL DISTRICT LIBRARIES) (8,070 IN NUMBER)-1,33S,848 vOLUMES. " The number of volumes in the school district libraries was, in 1844, 1,145,250; in 1845, 1,2(3,139; in 1846, 1,310,986; and in 1847, 1,338,848. "Selections for the district libraries are made from the whole range of literature and science, with the exception of controversial books, political or religious. History, biography, poetry; philosophy, mental, moral and natural; fiction-indeed every department of huiman knowledge contributes its share to the district school library. The object of this great charity was not mlerely to furnish books for children, but to establish in 10( [ 120o] all the school districts a mniseellaneous library suited to the tastes and characters of every age."'" By means of this diffusive benevolence, the light of knowledge penetrates every portion of the State, and the sons of our farmers, merchants, mechanics, and laborers have daily access to many well selected books, of which, but'for this sagacious policy of our State,' a majority of them wrould have never heard. If knowledge is power, who can calculate the energy imparted to the people of this State by the district school and district library?" fSee Annual Report of the Superintendent of Common Schoqis, January 2, 1849.] "1In 1835 the districts were, by act of legislature, authorized to tax themselves $20 each the first year, and $10( each year afterwards, for the establishment of a library. But few districts availed themselves of this privilege. In 183S it was made imperative upon each district, tihe State paying half of the sum." These libraries are ", not so much for the benefit of children attending school as (or those who have completed their common-school education. Its main design was to throw into school districts, and to place within the reach of all their inhabitants, a collection of good works on subjects calculated to enlarge their understandings, and store their minds with useful knowledge." [Report, 1836.] N'EW: JERSEY. BURLINGTON. College Library —1,000 vols.-Founded A. D. 1846; contains about 1,000 voluhmes, 3 MSS., 25 maps and charts, a good collection of sacred music, and several hundred coins. No catalogue has been printed. The library is open daily from 3 to 4 p. m. Books are freely lent, mostly to students, to be returned in a week. The college is yet in its infancy, and of' course no annual average of expenditure or use can be stated. Rev. A. Frost, librarian. NEWARK. Library of the New Jersey Historical Society-825 vols.-The society was instituted in 1845. The library was definitely located in Newark in the year 1846. It contains 825 volumes, 410 pamphlets, 760 manuscripts, 20 maps, 2 portraits, and several engravings. The larger portion of the collection has been presented. About $150 per annum have'been appropriated to the purchase of books and MSS. The society occupies a room in a building erected by the Newark Library Association. The room is 48 feet by 18, and 12- high. No catalogue of its collections has been printed. There is no specified time for the opening of the library. Members have access on application to the librarian. The books are not lent out. Samuel H. Pennington, librarian. Tfhte Library Institution-3,000 vols.-This institution was chartered by the State in 184-. The library contained in 1849 3,000 volumes, open to the public on the most liberal terms. A handsome building has been erected expressly for the institution. W. A. Whitehead, secretary. [ 120 3 106.NEW BRUNS:WICK. Rutgers College Library-8,000 tOls.-Rutgers College was founded in 1 770. Thie library was commenced about the year 1807, and contains (January, 1849) not far from 8,000 volumes. It increases at the rate of about 150 volumes per annum. Personls entitled to use the library are: officers of the institution, gratuitously; students of the college, and of tile theological school, by paylung one dollar per annum. None except professors and students are allowed to take books from the library. The.number that consult the library without taking' hocks is very limited. Professor C. K. Van iRemondt, librarian. ORANGE. Lyceuwn Librqary-1,0OO vols. PRINCETON. Libraries of the Ccllege of New Jrsey-16,000 vols.-The College of New Jersey was founded in 1746. The college lihrary was commenced as early as 17.55, but was entirly consumed in 1801 by the fire which destroyed the college building. The present library (August, 1849) contains 9,000 volumes, and upwards. It has a collection of maps, and also a small one of medals and coins, and has lately received more than 8,000 sulphurets.-fac-similes of ancient Roman and other coins.. For some years past about $400 per annum have been expended for the pur. chase of books. The librar9 is kept in a room 66 feet by 33, and is arranged according to subjects. There is no printed catalogue, except one prrinted in 1760, in 12mo. The library is open twice a week-one hour each time. Persons entitled to the use of the library are, the instructors and students of the college and theological seminary, and resident graduates. Books are lent out, agnd occasionally to persons at a distance. Professor G. M. Giger, librarian. T'!ete are connected with the college two literary societies possessing librariesl-namely: the Arnerican Whig Society has 3,500 volumes; the Cliosophic Society 3,500 volumes.?Iiach of these societies has a handsome bui!ding, erected exclusively for its purposes by its members. Both are conducted with much spirit. Library of the T/?eologi,al Seiinar -,,0,0O vols.J-This institution went into operation in the year 1S12, with a small number of books.'he ptesent nunmber of volumes mnay be from 8,000 to 10,000, mostly tlleological, including all the Polyglots and nlost of the Fathers, besides a very valuable collection of about 1,000 voluames of bound. parnphlets, collected mostly by one individual.. It is a very choice and valuable library. Most of tile booqks have been pTresented; there is, therefore, no uniformity in the number of books added yearly. No certain sum is devoted annuallyeto the purchase of books. The average annual expenditure would not exceed $2(00. On one occasion a private library was purchased for about one thousand dollars. A beautiful Gothic building, S0 feet by 50, of brown stone, has been erected by the liberality of a single individual. The floors are of marble. 107 [120] The roof is slated. The whole, except the vestibule, is in one room, with a allery. The are aIacoves on the two sides 6f the room.. Tihe ar.rangement'of-the bookS is partiy bv su bjects, but not uniformly. The libr'ary is open twice a wveek fbr takirng'out books'; and every day, Sunday excepted, fa' co'sultltatainn. The professors and stuodentS of the seminary and ef New Jersey College "are entitled to the use of the library. The in sitittion is cOnnected ith'tie Presbyterian denornination':. Rev. A. Alexa'nder, S. T. D., librarian. TRENTON. State Library-5,000 vols.-This library was organized in 1824, and eolntainls 5,1 {(: volulimes. 11i has one volurne, of about'600 pages, of letters in manuscript,n most of them' firom men? who served their country in the Revolution -a number of General Washington's. There is an annual appropliati'on of' $250 for the purchase of books. The library occupies an.apartment in the State House. Two cat"alogues have. been pinited-'the first in 183S, 36 paces Svo.; the second in- 1~47, 37 pages 8is'.vo.! The Iibrary is:opei da'y isen a liringa te se essions of: tle legislature.and'the State''courts,'and aiso f the United States diirtswhich s'it' at' Trenltorn. qi'e persdn;s entitled to the use of the books are, officers Of the-:executi.ve department, members of the legislai'fre: and members of the' New Jm'sery bar.'aWiiam. Dart, State libyrarian. e.. Philo41mathean Library- 300 vols.-The Philomathean Society of Trenton Aca'demy has begun to' collet a library, by' thle'roluntary contributions of its memnbers and others. About 300 vol Umies have already been reeiyve~d. PE NNSYL VANIA. ALLEGHANY CITY. Library of the Western Theological Seminary of the Presbyterian, Chturch-5,00t vols.-The library -w'as" founded in 1827, wlthen the institution commlenced its operations, and contains (Janu.ary, 1849) 5,000 volU.mes. T:he hIirerase during tthe iast tent years has b een small. A legacy hass been left; to be pe'tmnellly theyfi te'. arid appled to the inerease of t{h library'. It wnill probably yield about $90' or $iO per annum, and will soon-be available.''Te. i.T li'ei)rrary i'iS ii'':'~one of the'svings of the seminary edifice, on the third tory' The base'of tile libiary is a fidor projecting srne ssix feet fioom the'wall,'. with a-railing on it's ira'gn'The centre is open fr.om the flor of the seco)nd story. It was designed in the construction df the buildinag, fo~'r a library-room. Its "material is b1ick, and its diinensio~s 5re 60 by 30 feet; height,"] 1 feet frorni ithe floor; and 23 or 24 feet froi' the flaor of the. second story in the centre. The books are arranged upon' the shelves according to size. Around the ceiling, above the shel.ves, is ab'road border, on which the letters of the alphabet are printed-one above each tier of shelves. On the margin of each shelf, small letters are placed in alphabetical order. On the ba'ck of each book is inscribed its nmumber on its appropriate shelf.. On the inside of the cover is this same number, together with the large and small letters, [20 1108 ] and the whole number as it advances, with the name of the institution. In the catalogue the books are arranged according to subjects; each book, under its appropriate division', having the number and letters referring to its tier and shelf. Thus, by a reference from the catalogue, every book may readily be found, and, by the mnarks on the book, may quickly be returned to its place. The whole number is of no further use in the plan than to indicate the number of books in the library There is as yet no printed catalogue, but a good one in manuscript. The library is opened, statedly, once a week, and kept open one hour each time. The professors and students only are entitled to its use. By courtesy the use may be allowed to others. The faculty have the supervision of the library: they appoint'one of the students annually to attend to the duties of librarian. Rev. David Elliott, D. D., senior professor. CAiONSBURG. Jefferson College Libraries-10,000 vols.-The catalogue of the college for 1848 contains the following statement'with reference to the libraries: "The college library is not large, but contains a considerable number of rare and valuable books. Important additions have recently been made to it, and efficient measures taken for its enlargement. r" T'he literary societies are in a flourishing conditions and are probably unsurpassed by any similar associations. They are ornaments to the college, and valuable auxiliaries in the mental training of the students. Their halls are commodious and handsomely firnished, and their libraries extensive and well selected." This college was founded in 1802, and the number of volumes in the three libraries is given in the American Almanac for 1850 as 10,000. The Theological Seminiary at CYanonsburg,-2,000 vols -This seminary went into operation in 1831. and was incorporated in 1833. It is uinder the direction of the associated Presbyterian church. The library is said to contain 2,000 volumes. CARLISLE. Dickinson College Libraries-14,550 vols.-The college library was founded with the college in 1782, and contains 5,050 volumes. For the last ten years the average increase has been 120 volumes per annum; the expenditure for books, $100 per annum. The books are arranged according to subjects, following the system of Brunet. The library is open once a week for an hour, and is free to all connected with the college. There is nO printed catalogue. J. U. Marshall, librarian. There are two societies of students possessing valuable libraries, namely: the Belies-Lettres Society, 5,000 volumes; the UInion Philosophical Society, 4,500 volumes. CHESTER. Athenaeum Library —1 000 vols. 109 [ 120 ] EASTON. Lafayette College Libraries —5,402 vols.-The college library, begun in 1833, contains (January, 1849) only about 402 volumes. The libraries of the literary societies (the Franklin and ---— ) are larger and valuable, containing together about 5,000 volumes. The college was founded in 1832. Professor J. N. Coffin, librarian. The Easton Library-3,751 vols.-Trhis library was founded in 1811. It contains, (1850,) besides 3,751 volumes of printed books, a small number of manuscripts, maps, engravings, and coins. It increases slowly from the proceeds of a semi-annual, tax upon the proprietors, amounting to about 75 dollars a year; A brick building, G} feet by 35, forming one room 177 feet high, was erected for the library in 1811. The library is open Tuesdays and Saturdays from 3 to 5 o'clock. About 1,500 books are lent out each year. Peter Baldy, librarian. ERIE. The IrviiVn Literary Ins'itute was formed July 4, 1839, and incorporated in 1847.'1'he library contains 1,015 volumes. Thefunds are raised by a semi-annual assessment of members and the loan of books. The amount will average 5()0per annum. Voluntary subscriptions are occasionally made for the library. The institute occupies two rooms in the court house-a large hall for weekly meetings, and a private room -for the library. A catalogue (16 pp. Svo.) was printed in 1848. The library is open every Saturday, from 6 to 9 o'clock p. m. The members of the institute, and sjibscribers at $2 per annum, have free'access to the books. The institute maintains a course of' free lectures every winter. They have been well attended. Lucian Rus't, secretary. FALLSINGTONN BUCKS COUNTY. -The Fallsington Library Company was founded and incorporated in lS02. The 1st article of its constitution provides, that "no book or boolks shall ever be introduced into' this library which. shall have been written with an intention to discredit. the Christian religion, or bring into disrepute any society or denomination thereof." Dach member pays the sum of.$5 entrance fee, and an annual assessment of $1. The presetlt number of shareholders is 45. Number of volumes in the library, 1,65). Sum expended for books annually, $25. [See constitution of the F. L. Co., 12 pp. 12mo., Doylestown, 1836; and catalogue of books belonging to the F. L., 31 pp. 12mo. Newtown, 1844. GETTYSBURG. Pennsylvania. Coellee Librai ies-6,373 vols.-The college library commenced with the college in 1832, and contains (in 1849) 1,773 vol. unes, about, 50 medals, and 400 or 500 coins. About 100 volumes are added annually. About 80 to 100 dollars are expended yearly for books. The library occupies a l'oom in the,college edifice 42 feet by 22. It is opened onqe a week for about an hour. Professors, tutors, resident graduates, and students, are entitled to use the books; others can borrow' [ 120 ] 11o books through an officer of the institution, There are two literary socie, ties; (the Phrenakosmnian and PhilomatheTan,)"having libraries of about 2,000 volumnes each; a. scientific society, with 2(}0 volumes;.and a German society, with' 400 vlumes in the German language: making an aggregate of: 6,373 volumes connected with the college. Professor MI. L. Stoever, librarian.: Library of the Theological Sem'ihary of the General Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in the' United States.-The library was begun in 1825, and contains about 8,500 volumes, and a few MSS. The additions during the last ten years arnount to about 80(0 volumes. There is no printed cata!ogue. The library is opened for the use of the students every Saturday, one hour. The constitution limiits its use to the faculty and stidents of the institution. By. courtesy the professors of Pennsylvania College, located in the same town, are allowed the use of the books. The use is in all cases gratuitous. S. S Schmucker, chairman of the faculty. HARRlSBUJRG. Penslsylvania Stae Librar-y -10,000 vols. —This library was founded.28th February, 1816, and contains, at present, about 10,000 volumes. It occupies two rooms in the capitol, each about 40 feet long by 30 wide and 20 high. A catalogue was printed in 1839, containing 168 pages Svo. The library is open during the session of the legislature and supreme court, daily fr'omn9 a, m to I p. m., and from 3 p. m. to S p. m. Books are lent out to officers of the State government and members of the legislature. Strangers can read in the library, but are not by law permitted to take out books. James Johnston, librarian. RIATBOROUGH. finion Library-3,430 vols.-The Union Library Company of Hatborough, Montgomery county, was founded in the year 1755, and incor. porated in 1787. The library contains (1850) 3,430 volumes. It increases at the rate of about 100 volulmes annually. There has been no permanent fund till quite recently. Nathan Holt left by will a donation of $5,000, of which he directed $3,000( to the purchase of a lot of ground, and'the erection of a suitable building thereon. The remaining $,(,000 is to be placed out on landed security, and the interest devoted to the purchase of books. In 1849 a stone building was erected, for the above mentioned $3,000. It is 33 feet by 40, and finished after the plan of the Mercantile Library of Philadelphia, ill one room 16 feet high. There is a printed'catalogue, (64 pp. 8vo.) of which five editions have been issued. It includes a historical account of the institution, its constitution, by laws, &c. The library is statedly open two days in the week. Any person, by consent of the directors, may become a. member on the payment of $10 and an annual tax of one dollar. Strangers and nonsubscribers are allowed to use the books in the building, at the discretion of the librarian. Joseph Morton, librarian. JONESTOWN. The Siwatara Literary Association has lately been formed at Jonestown, the object of which, as stated in the second article of the constitu I1 ii [129] tlion, is "c to establish a library and museum, and to encourage such e:ercises as will tend to spread general and useful informatilon." LA'NCASTER. FPrnkiin Clolege Librarty. —This college has a small library of 750: volumes, including pamphtets. F. A. Muhlenberg, jr., librarian. [See Marshall College, Mercersburg.] The Library of the Mechanics' Institute in this place contains 2,000 volumes. [See Rupp's History of Lancaster County.] Julianac Library.-A library was established here in 1770 by Thomas — Penn, and named, froit his wife, the Juliana Library. [Ludewig, in the Serapean.].LEWISBURG. Lew.isburg University Libi'ar,!-600() ols.-This library was commenced in 1849. A subscription of about $10,()00 has been made for the increase of the library; and it will become available, by instalments, within the next three years. Professor George R. Bliss, librarian. MEADVILLE. Alleghany College Libraries-S,000 vols.-The college was founded in 1815. It possesses in its libraries about 8,000 volumes. The college library is composed almost entirely of three bequests-the first in point of size by Hotn. James Winthrop, LL. D., of Cambridge?, Massachusetts, who died in 1821; the second, by the Rev. William Bentley, D. D., of Salem, Massachusetts; the third, by Isaiah Thomas, esq., LL. D., of Worcester, Massachusetts. A catalogue of the library (130 pp. Svo.) was prepared and printed in 1828 by the Rev. Timothy Alden, who also compiled the catalogues of the libraries of the Massachusetts and New York Historical Societies. In the Alleghany Library catalogue each bequest is separately registered, under the name of its giver. "In the catalogue, the intelligent will perceive that there is an extensive range of the best editions of the Greek and Roman Classics, and of the ancient Fathers of the Christian Church; that there are books in thirty different languages, ancient and inodern, with lexicons and grammars, and elementary books for studying nmost of them; and that in history, ancient and modern, in belles-let(res, and other branches of literature and science, there is a most excellent collection." [See Remarks of Mr. Alden, Catalogue, p. 136.] Tle' Library of the Meadville Theological School- 5,300 vols.-lThis institution is under the' direction of the Unitarian Congregationalists. The library was founded simultaneously with the school, in 1844, and contains 5,300 volumes. For the five years since the library was established, nearly 900 voltumes per annum on an average have been added to it. Somewhat more than $250 from the funds of the schoo' have annually been appropriated for the purchase of books. The library is open twice a week-one hour each time. Students and officers of the institution are entitled to the use of the books. A discretionary power of' lending to any literary gentleman is vested in the fac [ 120 ] 112 ulty, and has always been exercised when applied for. No charge ismade for the use of the library. Between 2,000 and 3,000 books are lent out annually. The number is increasing with the growth of the library. The private libraries of the officers of the school are as largely composed of works of reference, and as freely open to students, as the public library. They contain about 3,700 volumes. Professor F. Hftidekoper, librarian. MERCERSBURG. Library of the Th/eological Semninary of the German Ref)ormed Synowd of lNorth, Alnerica-6,000 vols. -The library was commenced with the seminary, in 1825. It contains at present (1850) about 6,000 volumes, mostly in German. The increase has been small-not mlore than 50 volumes per annutm. No catalogue has been printed. The library is open one'hour each week. A fee is charged to the students for the use of the library. John W. Nevin, D. D., seniorprofessor. Marshall College, Libraries —7,000 vols.-The college library contains about 1,000 volumes. The Diagnothian Society has a library of 3,000 volumes, and the Goethean Society also has about 3,000 volumes. Each of these libraries is in a separate hall. The college library is distributed among the professors-each professor having charge of those books pertaining to his own department. There is at present no room appropriated to the books. The institution was chartered in 1835. Measures have been taken for uniting this college with Franklin Col lege, Lancaster. Thle corporate name will be Franklin and Marshall College. The success of this plan will depend upon the raising of $25,000 for the erection of buildings in Lancaster, and $1,5,000 for the endowment of a professorship in Pennsylvania College, Gettysburg. NORRISTOWN. The Library Company-2,515 vols.-The Norristown Library Coinpany was founded in May, 1796, and (in 1850)) possesses 2,515 volumes, (to wit: 4 folios, 30 quartos, 872 octavos, and 1,609 duodecimos, besides phamphlets.) There is no permanent fund. There is an annual income of about eighty dollars arising from an assessment of one dollar upon each shareholder. The sum thus obtained is mostly devoted to the purchase of books. In 1835 a small wooden building was erected expressly fi)r the library; it is 15 feet six inches square. A catalogue (40 pp. 1ISmo.) was printed in 1836. The library is open every day. Shareholders pay $5 for a share, and $1 annual tax. Books are lent, for a small charge, to ether persons. About 200 are thus lent annually. R. Adamson, librarian. PHILADELPHIA. The Library C'ompany and the Loganian, Librarqy-60,000 vols.-Th-e following facts of general interest, respecting the history of this venerable and useful institution, are extracted from ati article written for Waldie', Portfolio, by John J. Smith, es(q., the librarianr 1 13 [ 120 ]. 4" The first entry in the records of the Library Company, is in.the following words:'' The minutes of me, Joseph Breintnall, secretary to the directors of the Ilibrary Company of Philadelphia, with such of the minutes of the same directors as they order me to make, begun on the 8fth day of November, 1731. By virtue of the deed or instrument of the said conipany, dated the first day of July last. " The said instrument being completed by fifty subscriptions, I subscribed myname to the following summons or notice which Benjamin Franklin sent by a messenger, viz: "'To Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Hopkinson, William Parsons, Philip Syng, jr., Thomas Godfrey, Anthony Nicholas, Thomas Cadwalader, John Jones, jr., Robert Grace, and Isaac Penington. "' GENTLEMEN: The subscription to the library being completed, you, the Jirectors appointed in the instrument, are desired to meet this evening at 5 o'clock, at, the house of Nicholas Scull, to take bond of the treasurer for the faithful performance of hlis trust, and to consider of and appoint a proper time for the paymen; of' the'money subscribed, and other matters relating to the said library. " JOS. BREINTNALL, Secretary. "' PHLADELPHIA, November 8, 1831.' " At this meeting a treasurer, William Coleman, duly executed a bond with sureties, and B3enjamlin Franklin proposed that the said Coleman attend at suitable places to receive the subscription moneys; which, says cur secretary,' it was tihe general opinion, should not be delayed, lest the directors be disappointed in sending it to England this fall to lurchase books, or that other disappointments, prejudicial to the library design, should happen by delays or negligence on any hland.' "'Thle price of a share was fixed at forty shillings, and on the first even. ing of attendance for that purpose ten. persons appeared and paid the amttount of their subscriptions. Several individuals, however, were dila-' tory in meeting their engagements, and B. Franklin printed and sent thlem notice either to pay on a certain evening, or signify their determina, tion to relinquish the copartnership. Much difficulty and no little fotr bearance appears- to have been the lot of the* directors and treasurer, ill collecting from some:of the original subscribers; but, satisfied of the utility of the project, at a meeting on the 29th of March, 1.732, the-sum: in hand: being' above half' the amount originally intended to be raised, it was col. cluded to be the interest of all concerned to send for some of the book, immediately. Thomas Godfrey, at this meeting, informed- the directors. that Mr. James Logan had heard of the plan, and would willingly giave his advice in the choice of books; the minl-te on the subject is in these words:'Upon this information,'I'homas Godlfrey was requested to return' the thanks of the, committee to Mr. Logan for his generous offer; a~nd the colmmittee esteeming Mr. Logan to be a gentleman of universal learn.ing, and the hest judge of books in, these parts, ordered that Thomas Godfrey:shou:ld wait onr himn alnd request him to favor them wnith a catalogue ot' suitable books against' to' morrow evening, which'1.: G. readily agreed to do.' Mis.-8 [ 120 4 "With the advice of Mr. Logan the list was made out, and Robert Grace,'to expedite the affair,' agreed to draw on Peter Collinson, mercers in Gracious street, London, for' $45 sterling at 65 per cent. advance the current rate,' in favor of and to be remitted by Thomas Hopkinson, then ab out sailing for England, with directions to purchase as many volumes as he could for the money. The cafalogue of this first effort evinces considerable judgment, and was very carefully prepared wil'h a view to facilitate the acquisition of knowledge in the various departments required by the wants of a young community. "In October, 1732, the first importation ofbooks was received by Captain Carnock in good order. T. Hlopkinson informed the directors that he had received advice from T. Cadwalader and P. Collinson in adding and omitting various books; and that' Peter Collinson, who had given great assistance, had moreover made the company a present of two valuable Iooks.' His claim is thus established of having been the first donor to the yet infant library. The importance of the step thus taken, although it was on a smalflS scale, can be justly appreciated; only by a knowledge of thd fact, which is stated in the reply to Peter Coltihnson, that there was no manner of provision made by the government for public education, either in tllis or the neighboring provinces,'nor so much as a good bookseller's shop nearer than Boston.' " The books were taken to'Robert Grace's chamber, at his house in Jones's alley,' and there placed on the shelves, a catalogue made out, and Dr. Franklin undertok to print the blank promissory notes for the librarian to fill up, and get subscribed by those to whom he lent books. The rules and regulations adopted were few and simple. The first librarian, Louis Timothee, gave attendance from 2 to 3 on Wednesdays, and on. Saturdays, from 10 till 4. He was allowed to permit' any civil gentleman'to peruse the books of the library in the library-room, but not to lend or to suffer to be taken out of the library, by any person who is not a subscribing members any of the; said books, Mr. Jalies logan only excepted.' Timothee, it appears, occupied Grace's house, and he was to receive at the expiration of three monrths three pounds lawful money certain,' and a further'reasonable reward,' as should be agreed on in consideration of services and rent.'"In December, 1732, several new applicants presented themselves, and were admitted. Dr. Franklin produced the printed catalogue, which he presented without charge. " The original number of fifty subscribers was not completed till the 22d February, 1733, when Joseph Growden signed the constitution, be. ing the fiftieth member. " William Rawle appears to have been the first American donor, having, on the 12th of March, 1733, presented' six volumes or books of the works of Mr. Edmund Spenser.' " On the 15th of May, of the same year, it was agreed by a committee of directors to draw up an address to Thomas Penn, proprietor,' in order for his countenance and protection in an affair so useful and well intended as the library, and which the proprietor signified through his secretary, Mr. George, that he approved and designed to encourage.' " Mr. Penn replied that he took the address'kindly,' with the assurance that ihe should be always ready to promote any undertaking so useful. 115 [120] He presented several articles to the institution, and it is to the honor of the proprietary family that they promoted the design as long as they continned to preserve any influence in the province.'" Mr. Timothee having vacated his office, Benjamin Franklin, ole of his sureties, offered to take his situation for the current year, in consideration of Tinmothee's having been serviceable to hlim; he o(cupied the station of librarian for three months and a day, and was succeeded by, Willitmn Parsons., l)ring the periodof Franklin's service as librarian, the roomn was agreed to be open but once a week, on Saturdays from fbur to eight-it hlaving been observed that borrowers rarely caime opi Wednesdays, and four hours were found amply sufficient to supply all applicants. The librarian's salary was then reduced to X6. "' The increase of books was supposed to raise the value of a share annualiy ten shillings, and I find the price gradually increased. "On the 12th of December, 1737, the directors were informed by the secretary that the proprietor was pleased to say that nothing remained to delay his grant of a lot of ground he intended to bestow on the company for their library. In May, 173S,. a letter was received from John Penn, with a present of an air-pump. The first paragraph conveys information highly honorable to the. company. It is dated London, 31st of January, 1738, and begins:' GENTLEMEN: It always gives me pleasure when I think of the Library Company of Philadelphia, as they were the first that encouraged knowiedge. and learning in the province of Pennsylvania.' "A suitable reply and a vote of thanks for the lot and the air-pump were ordered to be returned to the generous donor. The pump excited considerable. curiosity among the citizens frequent notices of application to borrow it being niigiuted; a commitee was appointed to provide a case and frame for it, with glass lights in the door,'to took ornamental in the libraryroom. "The first, and, I regret to add, one of the very few presents of money made to the institution, was from Dr. Walter Sydserfe, of Antigua, in 1738, whoA having the sum of X58 6s. 8(d. due him in this country, generously presented it to the company. In Junle, 1739, the number of members had been increased to 74.' On the 7th of April, 1740, the books were removed to'the upper room of the westernmost office of the State-house'-the use of which had been lately granted to the company by the assembly.' In a catalogue printed in 1741, in my possession, there is a short account of the state of the institution. Shares were then granted at the price of St;6 10s. In this year, John Penn, esq., presented a microscope and camera obscura, still in tlie company's possession.'' In 1746, Samuel Norris bequeathed the company p20. "'From 1748 to 1752; mrany of the minutes are missing, and I have only to note the reception of a telescope and a number of valuable books from Thomas Penn, esq. "In.1752,'a noble present of ancient medals' was received through Mr. Peters from Mr. Gray, mermber of Parliament for Colchester. "''In 1762 Charles Thomson, who afterwards became Secretary to Congress, was elected a direc.tor, and in April the long expected patent from the Penns for a lot of ground rin Chestnut street, near Ninth, was re [ 120 ] l-ld ceived. The lot was enclosed swith, a post-and-rail fence, and continued for mnany years to yield a small revenue. On Dr. Franklin's return from Europe he was unanimously re-elected a director by the board, to supply the place of Samuel. Shoemaker, resigned. " CUn tile 14th of February, 1763, the celebrated John Dickinson was elected a director. In an address to John Penn, November 21, 1763, occurs the following paragraph:' The encouragements the library met with in its infancy have had good effects, Many other libraries, after our example and on our plan, have been erected in this and the neighboring provinces, whereby useful knowledge has been more generally diffused in these remote corners of the earth. " Some dissatisfaction is noted at this period at the.new regulations, by which members were prevented from coming into the library and taking down books; in consideration of which it was' Resolved, That the librarian should prepare a bond, which should be tendered to. every member who should desire the privilkge of entering the library and exandliing the books there, at the hours of attendance on: Saturdays, by which he should bind himself to be answerable for his proportionable part of the loss that may arise from "'any books being lost or stole out of the library.' " This appears to have had the desired effect; as, however anxious members might have been to consult the books, they could not be supposed willitig to join in the librarian's responsibility for losses. " 1767. Mr.'Hopkinson visiting England, the directors, in order not to lose his services on his return, were allowed to appoint a proxy, He brought home with himn a few rare books, purchased by Dr. Franklin, with the company's money, and a present from Benjamin'West,' formerly,' says the minute,' of this city, but now of London, historical painter: a woman's hand, taken front an Egyptian mummy, in good preservation.' This hand, which has sometimes been called Cleopatra's, is still in the building, and, notwithstanding the length of time which it has been exposed to the action of the air, is in perfect preservation. " 1768. On the 20th of February, 1768, a law was enacted for adnitting new members for the sum of'.10. "1769. At a meeting of the directors,.February 13th, 1769, the foilowing gentlemen, viz: George Roberts, Jonathan Shoemaker, James Pearson, Charles Jervis, D)avid Evans, Anthony Morris, jr., and Moses Bartrarn, being a conimittee of the Union Library Company of Philadelplhia, waited on' the'board, to signify.vtieir approbation of the plan which had been sonme time iil agitation, of uniting: the two institultions. The directors replied,'that they thought such a scheme might better answer the intention of public libraries, than if they were to continue in. separate bodies;' and on the 13th of March a law was enacted, giving the directors'full power and authority to admit the members of the Union Library Company,' &c. "Of the value of this accession of books I have no data to form a judgment. The Union Company owned the house in Third street where their books had beeni kept, and'it was for a considerable period a souirce of revenue, until sold. Benjamin Franklin, at this time in London, handed the orders for books to William Strahan for shipment. "CThe institution having now acquired additional consequence by the accession of new members, and an increase of books, the board petitioned the assembly of the province for -permission to erect, on some. part of: the 117 [ 120] State-house lot such a building as would prove an ornament to tile city, and continue to accommodate their' rapidly increasing' library. This ap. plication was refilsed; and at a general meeting of the company, convened by advertisement, on the 5th of October, 1771, it was deemed iniexpedient to build elsewvhere, and the projectvwas for the present suffered to rest. It was not till the 25th of September, 1769, that the room was opened three days in the week; these days were Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, for four hours each, and two librarians were then appoint. ed, viz: John de Maurengault and Ludowick Sprogell, at an annual salary of 2)20 each. " 1771. Another junction was formed in'177' with the, Association Library Company, but there are no data by which to judge of the extent of this institution. The Amicable Company, also admitted about this time, is only casualty mentioned, and the two collections were probably of no great'value. " 1773. Early in'the year 1773, the second floor,of Carpenters' Hall was rented, and the books removed fromn'the room.in the State-house, which was now too small for their accommodation; the library was then first opened daily, from two o'clock'till seven, under the charge of'Charles Cist, at an annual slary'of ~60. The books were here first plAced behind the protection of latticed doors. The increase of the cabinet of coins seems to have been a favorite project: a great number are noted as having been presented from'time to time. In October, 1773, several specimens of minerals, and 53 curious coins, were presented'by'Edward Pole. Unfortunately, tihe secretary, in reporting the gift, was obliged'to add the'following memorandum:' but the library being entered by some thief (as supposed) last night, he carried off all the coins and tokens, together with some change which was left in the drawer.' Mr. Pole, however', received the thanks of the directors, and the articles were advertised, but.never recovered. "1774. On the 31st of August, 1774,, it was,'upon motion, ordered that ttie librarian furnish the gentlemen who are to meet in congress in.this city, with such books as they may have occasion' for during their sitting, taking a receipt for them.' Congress enjoyed this privilege during the whole period of its sittings in Philadelphia, and the.members experienced much inconvenience from the want of a similar institution for reftrence after removing to Washington,' before a good library had been collected in the capitol. The members of the legislature of'Pennsylvania likewise enjoyed the use of the books for a long period, free of charge. "'1 776. In May, 1776, an advertisement appeared in the Pennsylvania Gazette, and other journals, requesting a general meeting of the company, in order to consider of' the propriety of empowering the directors to remove thebooks and effects of the company in case any event of the war should make that measure necessary. Two atte/mpts to get together.enough members to pass such a law failing, the books remained, and were unmolested. "The British army had possession of Philadelphia from September 26, 1777, to June 18, 1778, but it does not appear that the company sustained any loss front those who comp:sed it. The officers, without. ex: ception, left deposites, and paid hire fbr the books borrowed by them.'"1'777. In'1777 the library room was occupied by the sick soldiery, and Messrs. Alison: Jones, and Hughes were'appointed a committee, on f 20 3 118 the 11th of March, to wait on General.Gates, commanding officer in this city, in order to procure, if possible, an order for their removal.' During the whole progress of the war, the importation of books was of course suspended. The funds thus accumulated were expended, on the conclusion of peace, in a large importation of the standard works which had appeared in the interval. By the will of the Honorable William Lrogan,. the institution received this year a very handsome bequest of books of' ancient authors, being a more extensive and valuable gift than any here tofore received. They may all be traced'in the catalogue by the L attached to each. (" 1779. Jno. Todd, librarian, received.100 per annum and a share. " 1781. On the 4th of May, 1781, the directors agreed to receive 3Ig shillings state money in lieu of a bushel of wheat, by which the annual payments were the previous year directed to be made. "1783. The committee on importations remitted X,200 sterling to London on the 10th of June, 1783, nine years having elapsed since their last order. Jos. Woods and William Dillwyn were selected as proper agents, fronm their well-known attachment to literature, and knowledge of books; they acted during the remainder of their lives to the satisfaction of the directors, and Jos. Woods's son is now the agent. In their letter the committee of correspondence state,' we shatl confide entirely in your judgment to procure us such books of modern publication as will be proper for a public library, and though we would wish to mix the utile with the dulce, we should not think it expedient to add to our present stock anything in the novel way.' This has been the uniform plan pursued, with the exception of a few of the best class of novels and romances; the consequence has been that, with the very great increase of the number of volumes, the shelves are supplied with books of real rherit in most other departments, and are not lumbered with the temporary trash so greedily devoured by the sickly taste which procures its mental supplies from circulating libraries. "1783. November, 1783, Dr. Franklin presented six volumes of the natural history of the south of France." The erection of a building for the accommodation of the library having been long a matter of discussion, " at a general meeting, held June 1, 1789, a large number of members appeared, either in person or by proxy, and a law was passed giving the directors power to proceed, as soon as one hundred new members should be added to the list, to appropriate the money @n hand, reserving sufficient for the current expenses, and to sell the ground rents and real estate owned by the company. Bishop White was nominated by the directors chairman of this meeting, at which he presided. "'All the shares requisite, except nineteen, were soon subscribed, many of which were to be paid for in labor. The directors and treasurer and secretary assuming to themselves to procure the remainling nineteehn, the purchase of the lot and erection of the building was proceeded in with all convenient speed. The present site was purchased of Mary Norris and Dr. Logan. A number of plans were submitted fir approval, and the one prepared by Dr. William T'lhornton, with soime slight alterations, was adopted,, for which he received a share. It may be supposed that this undertaking was not without its difficulties, and I find that, owing to the low state of the funds, the directors, treasurer, and secretary, individually, 11 9;[120 ] advanced sums amounting to two hundred and fifty pounds, of which Josiah Hewes advanced fifty pounds, and the others from ten to twentyfive pounds. " 1789. The first stone of the edifice was laid on the 31st of August, 1789; the minutes state,'that, upon the suggestion of Dr. Benjamin Franklin, a large stone was prepared, and laid at the southwest corner of t.he building, with the following inscription, composed by the D)octor, except so far as relates to himself, which the committee have taken the liberty of adding to it:'Be it remembered, in honor of the Philadelphia youth, (then chiefly artificers,) that in MDCCXXXI, they cheerfully, -at the instance of Benjamin Franklin, one of their number, institute-l the Philadelphia Library, which, though small at first, is become highly valuable and extensively useful, and which the walls of this edifice are now destined to contain and preserve; the first stone of whose foundation was here placed the thirty-first day of August, 1789.' " 1790. By the 30th of December, 1790, the books were all removed'and ready for delivery, when it was resolved to have the room open daily, from one o'clock to sunset, and Zachariah Poulson was continued librarian, at one hundred pounds salary. During the progress of the building, more than the stipulated one hundred names were added to the list of stockholders-many apprentices having been allowed by their emlrployers to give sufficient labor to purchase the privilege of admission. Their names are faithfully recorded; and it may, in future, be interesting to their descendants to discover that they are reaping the benefits of, literary. instruction from the honest labor and the sweat of the brows of their progen itors. "' Among the benefactors of the library occur the names of Robert Barclay, of London, and of Abraham Claypoole, of Pennsylvania. The former repeatedly sent presents of rare or curious books, and till his death continued to correspond with his American friends, and to mention the institution with interest. The latter left the company, bywill, one hun-,dred pounds. " 1791. In January, 1791, the directors again tendered to the President and Congress the free use of the books in the library, in as full and ample manner as if they were members of the company. President Washington, through his secretary, Tobias Lear, returned thanks for the attention in a very handsome note. "1782. On the 18th of February, 1782. Doctor Parke informed the board that the heirs of James Logan had made a proposition to transfer to the Library Company of Philadelphia the Loganian Library, and also to convey to them, under certain conditions, a lot of ground in Philadelphia, and certain rents charge, together with the arrearages thereof, now due from estates in Bucks county. On this subject a committee was appointed to inquire into the condition of the property, and the terms intended to he annexed to the transfer. [1 I20] 120 "X' 1792. An additional five-foot lot having been purchased of Samuel M. Fox, on Library street, a building was erected for the accommodation of the Loganian books by the Library Company of' Philadelphia, for which-.the Loganian trustees pay an annual rent. "'COn the 4th of October, John Fitch's rvmanuscripts, respecting the steamr engine, were- deposited in the library, undler seal, with a'request lthat they might be kept unopened till the year 1823. This was done, and as they have undergone an examination, I shall not here attempt their analyzation. " 1793. On the 30th of' August, 1793, at a general: rneeting of the members, the price of shares was raised to forty dollars, at which sum they still remain.' 1799. In April, 1799, Henry Cox, of the kingdom of Ireland, pre. sented a large number of manuscript volutes relating to the history of his native country. They consist of the original correspondence of James the First with the Privy Council of Ireland, from 16t3 to 16t5, incrlusive, and a great variety of historical data, the value of which remains unknown. In one'of the volumes is an original letter from Queen Elizabeth, dated in 1568. Several valuable printed books are also in this collection. "1804. In this year the institution was greatly enriched by John Bleakly and the Rev. Samuel Preston. The former left, by will, one thousand pounds to the library, and the latter bequeathed a most valuable collection of rare and curious books, selected with great taste and judgment, together with two shares of United States Bank stock. Dr. Preston was influenced, in selecting this library for the reception of his own, by our countryman, Binjamin'West, who painted the portrait of the donor, which was, in the succeeding year, presented by Mrs.'West, as an appropriate ornament for the library rooms. To appreciate the value of Preston's library, it must be examined in detail. There are in the collection many rare books of plates, &c., of the most costly description, which the finds of the institution would forever have forbidden being purchased. "George Campbell was now elected librarian-ad office he filled for twenty three years, during which long period he was never once prevented:by sickness from attending to his daily duties-a circumstance almost unprecedented in the annals of a salary officer. Under his charge, the institution continued to flourish, and was again enriched, at the period of his resignation, by the bequest from Willianm Mackenzie of 500 rare volumes, and the purchase from his executors of the additional number of 1,466'. "'Since this period, about 5,000 volumes were purchased, on very favorable terms, from Jamnies Cox, an artist, since deceased, consisting of many expensive volumes on the fine arts, and miscellaneous books. They supplied a prominent deficiency, and many rarities are among them.":From the preface to the last catalogue we take the following: "Besides the books, the personal property consists in some available funds yielding interest, the sale of shares, the price of each of which since 1793 has been, fixed at forty dollars, and the annual payments of four dollars'from each member. The real'estate of the company consists of the lot and buildings where the-Philadelphia and Loganian libraries are klept. " The members dispose of their shares by transfer or will; but the as. 121 [ 120] sent of the directors, as well in such cases as in case of an original purcl'ase, is previously necessary-a restriction early adopted, in order: as much as possible to-prevent improper persons' fror having- access to a collection of a nature peculiarly liable to injury." Tie preface to the catalogue of the Loganicn Library contains the followving account of that establishment: "' This collecti,)on of rare and valuable books, principally in the learned and existing languages of the continent of Europe, owes its origin to the Ilonorable James TLog'an, the confidential friend and counsellor of William Penn, and for some time president of the council of the province of Penn. sylvania. Its;fiundation consists of a portion of his own private library, which, having collected at considerable expense, ie was anxious should descend to posterity, and continue usefully to extend to others the means of prosecuting those pursuits he had himself so.successfully cultivated. With this view, he erected a suitable building in Sixth street, near Walnut, for the reception of a library, and, by deed, vested it (with the books and certain' rents, for tile purpose of increasing their number, and paying a librarian) in trustees, f)r the use of the public, forever.' Thlis deed he afterwards cancelled, and prepared i but did not live to execute, another, in which some alteration was made in the funds and regulations. After his death, his children and residuary legatees-, with commendable liberality, carried into effect the intentions of Mr. Logan, and conveyed the building, books, and rents charge to trustees, who caused the library, c'osisting of more than two thousand volumes:, to be arranged, and a catalogue to be printed. "About one thousand three hundred volumes, collected -by Doctor William Logan, of' Bristol, England, a younger brother of James Logan, and by William Logan, of Philadelphia, son of the founder, were afterwards bequeathed to the institution by the latter gentleman, who acted for some time as librarian. After his death, in 1776, the library remained unopened during several years. "To insure its perpetuity, the. legislature of Pennsylvania, in 1792, at the request of James Logan, the only surviving trustee, passed an act annexing the Loganian library to that belonging to the Library Company of Philadelphia, under certain restrictions. This act constitutes the,directors of that prosperous company for the time being trustees, together with the eldest male descendant of the founder, and two other gentlemen to be by him appointed. " Since the two libraries were thus connected, the books of the Logaanian institution have been kept in a room appropriated to the purpose, owned by the Library Company of Philadelphia, in which they were first opened for the benefit of the citizens in 1794, in accordance with the original intentions of James Logan and'the act of assembly. "Very considerable additions have continued to be made to the collection by means of the filunds arising out of the sale of the lot and building in Sixth street, and from the rents of the lands in Bucks county, Pennsylvania, settled originally on the institution by the Logans, and by donations-particularly of that from the late William Mackenzie, esq., a native of Philadelphia, who bequeathed by his last will, in 1828,'all his books printed before the beginning of the eighteenth century, and eight hundred ~volumes more, to be chosen by the trustees, from his French books and Latin books printed since the beginning of the eighteenth century.' This [120] 122 valuable bequest consists of 1,519 volumes of great rarity and value; and subsequently 3,566 volumes were purchased from his executors. They had been accumulated by Mr. Mackenzie during a life extended beyond seventy years, which had been almost exclusively devoted to literary pursuits. During this period, one of his few intimate friends says' he believes he never had an enemy: at least, from the purity of his principles and the correctness of his conduct, I am sure he never deserved one.' ".The Philadelphia Library contained in February, 1785, 2,761 works, in 5;487 volumes; in July, 1807, 8,074 works, in 14,457 volumes; in August,, 1835, 18,762 works, in 35,221 volumes. The Loganian Library contained, when it was annexed to the Library Company of Philadelphia, in August, 1792, 3,064 works, in 3,953 volumes; in August, 1.835, 6,922 works, in 8,663 volumes. The Philadelphia and Loganian Libraries contained in August, 1835, 25,684 works, in 43,884 volumes; in August, 1849, 60,000 volumrnes. From $3,000 to $4,000 per year are expended in the purchase of books. The incomes of the institution isFrom annual payments of members - $3,80 From other sources, real estate, &c. - - 2,5;00 Total - - - - - - - 6,300 The books are arranged as they are received, according to size. The first catalogue was gratuitously printed by Benjamin Franklin in 1732; the second by Franklin in 1741, (56 pp. 12mo;) the third by Franklin and Hall in 1757, (132 pp. 8vo.;) others in 1764, (150 pp. 8vo.;) in 1770, (8vo.;) in 1789, (406 pp. Svo.,) with supplements, 1793, (38 pp.;) 1794, (34 pp.;) 1796, (38 pp.;) 1798, (48 pp.;) 1799, (32 pp.;) and S101, (23 pp.;) in 1807, (616 pp. 8vo.) The last printed catalogue was pubblished in 1835, in two volumes Svo., making 1,050 pages. This catalogue is classed on the system of Brunet, somewhat altered. The index is alphabetical. iUnder each sub-class, the titles are arranged alphabetically under the names of authors. Anonymous works are recorded after the others. In the supplements the division of belles lettres is included under that of science and arts. A supplement was published in 1844,,and a second supplement in 1849. A catalogue of the Loganian Library was published in 1837, (450 pp. Svo.) The first catalogue of this collection was printed in 1760, (116 pp. 8vo.) The library is open every weelkday front 10 a. m. till sunset. Persons entitled to the use of the library are, stockholders who pay,$4 yearly; others on deposite and hire. The hooks are lent out in great numbers, but how many per annum is not ascertained. The number of persons who consult library without taking away books is very considerable-the exact number cannot be stated. A deposite of double the value of the books taken, will obtain most of the books of the institution, if applied for by proper persons. John Jay Smith, librarian. Library of the A:mzerican Philosophical ociety- 20,000 vols.-The American Philosophical Society, the oldest of the scientific associations in "5*The whole number of volumes received by the.Loganian Library from Mr Mackenze's library was 5,()85, and by the Philadelphia Library 1,966-being a total of 7,051 volumes. The books of Mr. Logan's original collection, and those bequeathed by William Logan, are designated in the catalogue by an L.; those bequeathed by Mr. Mackenzie, by an M." 123 [120 the United States, was formed in 1742. The American Society for Prormoting and Propagating Useful Knowledge in Philadelphia was estab. lished in 1766. These two societies were united in 1769, and incorporated March 15, 1780, as the " American Philosophical Society held at Philadelphia for Promoting Useful Knowledge." The library contains about 20,00t0 volumes. The society has also an'" extensive collection of manuseripts, maps, charts, and engravings, and, in its cabinet, medals, coins, &c." The precise number " cannot readily be given."' The annual increase is about 200 volumes. Few books are purchased except scientific periodicals, &c., by subscription. The chief accessions to the library are by donations fronm learned societies and individuals abroad and in this country. The library is in the hall of the society, a brick buildirng 50 by 703 feet, erected in 1786, on a part of the " State House Square," in the city of Philadelphia, granted to the society for that purpose by the State legislature, in 1784. The books are arranged on the shelves in numerical order, each volumle having its number attached, Folios, quartos, and octavos have their respective systems of numbers. No catalogue has been printed since one in 1824. It is an 8vo. of 290 pages. The library has since that time greatly increased. A new catalogue is in, preparation. The laws of the society require the library to be opened every Friday evening from 7 to 9 o'clock, and at such other times as the librarian may think proper. All members of the society are entitled to the use of the library; and facilities are afforded, at the discretion of the librarian, to we{l known visiters of respectable character. Books are lent out to members. A considerable number of persons consult the library at the room. Charles B. Trego, secretary and librarian. -Mercantile Library-12,232 vols. —- The Mercantile Library Company of Philadelphia was founded in 1823. The library contained, January, 1849, 12,232 volumes, "principally of works of permanent value." " The directors have been careftill to exclude from the shelves books of a frivolous character, or ofdernoralizing tendencies." The annual increase is about 600 volumes. The building of the company is on the southeast corner of Delaware, Fifth, and Library streets. It was erected in 1845, at a cost, incltlding furniture, &c., of $23,199 4-2. The interior of the building is divided into nineteen apartments. The entire second story is occupied as the library and reading-room, and the intermediate story of the east wing is used by the directors: all the other rooms are rented. The present libra-.ian is James Cox. The Academy of Natural Sciences-12,000 vols.-The American Academy of Natural Sciences originated on the 25th of January, 1812. It awas incorporated in 1817. The library contains about 12,000 volumes. It had 435 separate maps and charts in 1836, when the catalogue of the library was printed; since which date the additions have been few. For the last three years the annual increase has been about 7t00 volumes. This is exclusive of periodicals, serials, and pamphlets. There is no permanent library fund. The increase is mostly from donations, deposites, and occasional purchases. The library occupies an apartment on the ground floor of the hall of the society. It is, about 45 feet by 28, and 14. fet high, with a gallery on all its sides. The books are arranged according to subjects. A catalogue was printed in 1 836, containing 300 pages 8vo. At that time the library contained 6,890 volumes. An ap At [120-] 124 pendix will soon be prepared. The library is open daily, Sundays excepted, from 11 a. m. till sunset. The members alone are entitled to the use of the books. The friends of members, however, are by courtesy allowed a'ccess to the library. William S. Zantzinger, M. D., librarian.'IThe cabinet is the best in the United States'. The collection of birds is said to be the largest in the world, containing about 25,000 specimens, many mounted in skins. The collection of eggs and nests of birds is.also the most extensive ever made. The collections of mammalia, fishes, reptiles, crustacea, insects) and plants, are superior to any others in this country. rl'he library is rich and valuable in all departments of natural history. In ornithology it is quite complete. For these magnificent collections the academy is mainly indebted to the munificence of three gentlemen —William Maclure, esq., Dr. R. Egglesfield Griffiths, and Dr. Thomas B. Wilson. Mr. Maclure presented 5,233 volumnes. Among them is a curious and important collection of pamphlets and books published in France during the first Revolution. The donations of Dr. Wilson, if less in number, are not inferior in value to those of Mr. Maclure. His valuable gifts are still continued. They are;presented with the wise condition that they shall never be taken from the building. The new building was commenced in 1839, on a vacant lot, corner of Broad and George streets. The edifice is entirely fire-proof. It is well adapted to its purposes; but, although ten years ago it was considered large enough to accommodate the collections for half a century, it is now crowded to excess.'The Apprentices' Library- 11,700 vols. —The Apprentices' Library Company was incorporated April 2, 1821. In 1841 a separate department was established for girls. The boys' library contains about 9,000 volumes;,the girls' library about 2,700. For the last three years the average annual increase of both libraries has been 900 volumes; the expenditure about 400 dollars per annum. The annual income of the-institution is: from members, $550; from investments, $450. There is a catalogue for each library. For the boys' library the last catalogue (1.43 pages 12mo.) was printed in 1847; for the girls' library in 1849, (52 pages 12mo.) The library is opened, for boys, on Monday,:Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday evenings, about 2- hours each; for girls, on Thursday afternoon from 3 to 7, and on Saturday afternoon from 3 to 6. Apprentices and others under 21 years of age are allowed the use of the' books gratis. About 24,000 books are annually lent to boys, and 7,000,to girls. The library is used regularly by about 800 boys and 250 girls. Members pay $2 per annuin, or $25 for life. The library is situated at the'south west corner of Fifth and Arch streets. From the annual report of the managers, presented March, 1848, we gather the following additional statements: "Mr. Thomas W. Goldtrap has bequeathed to the company one thousand dollars for the increase of the library. "It is not the object of this company to swell the number of volumes in its libraries, for effect either at home or abroad. The sale, a year or two since, of about 2,000 volumes, will probably be followed by another wvhen the present catalogue is disposed of. It is desirable that the libraries be kept fresh and attractive. Books as they are now prepared have a charm for youth, which the more ancient tomes do not possess; but it has 125 [12.] been the care of your board to reject that spurious literature with which the market has been inundated by persons whose object appears to liave been to make a book, regardless of historical accuracy. No work of a known immoral tendency is ever admitted." About 600, copies of a work published by the company, were, in 1847, distributed among the apprentices using the-library. The Athenaeumr Library-10,O000 vols. — We are indebted to an address, delivered at the opening of the new hall of the Athenseum, October 18, 1847, by Thomas J. Wharton, esq., for the following facts.respecting this institution: It was founded in 1813 by a few young men, "who, feeling the want of a convenient place of common resort in which their leisure hours could be passed without, danger to morals or tastes, came together and arranged a plan for the establishment of reading rooms." On the 9th of February, 1814, when the articles of association were, adopted, the number of subscribers amounted to 200; and on the'i th of March following the institution was first opened to the public, in the room over the boolkstore of'Mr. Matthew Carey, at the, southeast corner of Chestnut and Fourth streets. Chief Justice Tilghman and Mr. Du Poncean each bequeathed to the Athenmeum 8200. Dr. William Lehman, who died in 1&29, bequeathed to the Athenaeum the sum of', $100,00 for the erection of a suitable building. This legacy, by the prudent management of the treasurers, amounted, on the 1 st of January, 1847, to $24,845 45. It is now invested in the beautiful buildilg occupied by the Athenaeum, the Historical Society, and the contro:llers of the public schools. The society derives a; permanent income of $-,2,000 from the rent of thle rooms. The entire cost, including fitting up, &c., will be less than $50,000, leaving a debt, to be secured by mortgage, of less. than $14-000. "'The whole structure is 50 feet front on Sixth street, 125 feet on Adelphi street, and 58 feet high. It is an excellent specimen of the Italian style of architecture, treated with spirit and taste.. The. first story is divided into oflices, and a large room- of 37 by 60 feet, 14 feet high, for the comptrollers of the public schools. The second story is arranged for the uses of' the Athenaeun, and is divided inito a news-room, library, and chess room. The news-room is on the Sixth street front, and is 37 by 47 feet, anld 24.feet high; it wvill. be finished in pilasters, with, an enriched cornice and cone to the ceiling. T'he library is 37 feet wide, 65 feet long, and:24 feet higlh, and will be finished with.a columnar ordinance of- the Corinthian order, advanced from the sides of the room, forming a:centre cell or nave and aisles;.the latter will be;filled up with bookcases, set laterally friom the pillars to the wall,- and is designed at some future timeto be finished with a gallery, as the library extends.; the cornice will be. enriched with. modillions and ornament, the ceiling being in, panel. rThe chess rooml is 18 feety, square, and is an ante room between the twuo large rooms; a room, of the same size over this is intended for the directors' room. The third story is divided into 8 rooms (three of large size;) one of them, to be occupied by the Historical Society, is 26 feet by 3 T.feet, and 14 feet, high." "A feature (says Mrr. Wharton) of this institution, to wvhich I would ad. vert with complacency, but.certinty I-without boasting, is the free admission which. it has.always, afforded to stranlgers;,meaning by this term, per. sons not permanently residing in the city, or within tenmamiles of. it, introduced.,by members,. It may be worthy of remark: andremembrance, that, accorditig to a register;: kept. bY, our wi;.thy-tl'al: attenti:c..librarian, mnmre [120 ] 126 than 30,000 strangers have visited the rooms, and availed themselves of the facilities and conveniences which they afford. During certain years the number has exceeded 1,000 annually, including representatives of every civilized country and community. "Whatever may be the deficiencies of our catalogue, in respect to the standard works of English literature, I believe it will not be easy to find, in this country, a more complete or various'collection of periodical literature, from the daily journal, through the various monthlies and quarterlies to the annual registers. Our library consists now, (October, 1847) I ain informed, of nearly 10,000 volumes. We receive 24 foreign journals, scientific and literary; and 25 Anierican. We take 5 foreign newspapers, and 62 American; one at least, I believe, from every State. "'Among the curiosities of literature in our rooms is a large collection of pamphlets, bound into 148 volumes, which belonged to )r. Franklin, some of them containing his manuscript notes and marginal remarks; and a regular series of the Journal de Paris, bound in volumes, and continued during the whole eventful period ofthe French revolution.' The Library of the Pennsylvania Hospital —] 0,000 vols.-The hospital was established in 1750. The first medical book possessed by this ilistitution appears to have been a present, in 1762, from Dr. John Fothergill. It was Lewis's History of the Materia Medica. The next year it was determined to demand a fee from students attending the wards at the time of the physicians, visiting the patients, and to appropriate the money arising from thence to the founding of a medical library. Prior to the Revolution about 100 volumes had been presented, and two orders for books had been sent to London. Only 11 volumes were added to the library from 1774 to 1787. One of these was a pamphlet; another, "'Cullen's First Lines of the Practice of Physic, 2 vols. 8vo." "cost the apparently enormous sum of 135 5s. This, however, when subjected to the talismanic operation of Richard Wells's scale of depreciation, shrinks to the comparative trifle of X'1 15s. specie!" In the years 1787-'9 the amoiunt paid for books was S266 5s. lId. The total expenditure for books previous to 1790, was equal to $886 48. The first catalogue, published in the year 1790, contains of folios 21, quartos 77, octavos 341, duodecimos 89; total, 528 volumes.' The increasing number of students from this time has afforded a fund for the steady increase of the library. For several years the books were selected and purchased by the celebrated Dr. Lettson, who enriched the collection with many valuable donations. In the year 1800 Sarah Lane presented 142 volumes of medical books, some of them very rare and valuable. A supplementary catalogue was printed in 1793, and a new catalogue in 1806, containing 127 pages 8vo. On the decease of Dr. Benjamin S. Barton, his extensive and rare collection of works on natural history was purchased of his widow for $2,270. A supplement to the second catalogue was printed in 1818. Another, and the last catalogue of the library, was printed in 182M9, containing 324 pages 8vo. At this time the library contained 5,828 volumes. A supplement, paged continuously with the catalogue, from page 325 to page 426, was printed in 1837, at which time the library contained 7,30)0 volumes. The catalogue is thus divived: Alphabetical catalogue of' authors, pages 1-202; alphabetical catalogue of editors and translators, 203-211; inaugu 127 [ 120 ] ral theses, in two parts-Ist, an index to the universities, and names of graduates; 2d, a general catalogue in the, order of subjects, 213-241periodical literature, memoirs of societies, under the names of places where printed, 243-257; anonymous publications, arranged under classes, 259-268; index to subjects -part I, medical, surgical, and chemical, (alphabetically arranged) 269-30S; part 2, natural history a~nd miscellaneous, &cc., 309 —322. The library at present contains about 10,000 volumes, and occupies a large and elegant room in the hospital'. The books-are mostly medical, and pertaining to kindred sciences. In these departments it is probably the most extensive and valuable collection in this country. Libtary of the Lawi Association of Philadelphia —5,100 vols. —"In the year 1802 a few gentlemen of the bar associated themselves for the purpose of forming a law library, for the use of, the profession in this city; and, partially by donations which they made, and partially by payments from members of the company, succeeded, by degrees, in forming a col. lection, which, with the small number of books formerly known, was all that was needed. With the increasing number of reports in modern times, the library, as originally organized, fell very far behind the professional requirements of the day; and in September, 1841, an effort was made by a number of gentlemen to enlarge the collection, and to place it, generally, upon such a basis as should make it more'worthy of the bar to which it belonged. Between the 15th of October, 1841, and the 1st March, 1850, there has been laid out by the association, in the purchase of new books, the sum of $9,583'72, exclusive of $865 87, in which last sum is embraced the cost of binding such of them as were bought in sheets. " "lThe collection, we are happy to believe, is now complete in all those departments usually required in the. practice of the law. There exists in it a series of all the English, Irish, and Amlerican reports-a department in which we believe that no other library, either in Great Britain or the United States, is equally perfect. The department of text books is also reasonably good; and`, in addition to complete collections of the British statutes at large, and of the acts both of' our State and federal legislatures, in their authoritative, unabridged condition, there will be found upon the shelves of this library such digests and works of general jurisprudence as have obtained, with the profession, any title to authority. As a means of professional culture, and of extending among the bar a knowledge of the judicial decisions of England and of the United States, the collection affords all that as yet is practicable, and much of all that can at any time be desired. " In the course of nearly fifty years which has.passed since this library was founded, neither the State, the county, nor the city, have contributed a dollar to its increase; and while, even in its present conditions the payment eof a sum merely nominal makes the least opulent practitioner among us the possessor of a library larger than any which the most wealthy owns, it is yet certain, that as a public library, answering all the demands of a numerous and intellectual profession, stimulated by the keen spirit of ambition and reward, and. pushing its investigations through every av'hue of knowledge, the collection is yet far in arrear of what it might be. There are some departments in which it is entirely wanting, and others where it is very imperfect. The civil law has no place in it at all, [ 120] 1*28 and the canon and ecclesiastical law have much too small ant one. There is also a large class of books which do not come exactly within the title of law books, that yet belong to the law, considered as a philosophic science, or as a system of lofty morals. They are sometimes cited in courts, and would forr, at any rate, a graceful addition to a library which represents in its. corporate dignity an intellectual and elevated profession.'" [See circular letter of a committee of the Law Association.] About 2,)00 dollars a year are expended in the purchase of books. There is no vested fund. The income is derived from assessments of mem belis and occasional contributtions. The library occupies a room 50 feet square, in the county court-house. The last catalogue, containing 64 pages 8vo., was printed in 1849. The following are the most important rules of the library: "' The library is open from 10 o'clock a. m. till 3 p. m., and from 4till sunset, daily throughoutt the year, excepting during the months of July and August, on Christmlas and New Year's day, the 22d of February, and on Saturday afternoons and Sundays; at which times it is closed. " The following persons are allowed to use the library: 1, menmbers of the association and subscribers to the librarv; 2, judges of the court sitting within the city; 3, members of the bar fronm the country, attendinlg the sessions in this city of the supreme court of Pennsylvania, or of the- circuit court of the United States. " Persons desirous of using this library can have the use of it for life, free of any annual charge, by paying- the sum of $S 00. Or they lmay become menlbers of the association by paying $30 in the first instance, aiid afterwards an assessment of $1() a year.' Gentlemen of the bar who are not members of the association, nor sutbsbribers for life to its library, may become subscribers to it annually by paying, during the first two years after their admission to the bar, $6 a year; during the ensuing two years, 88 a year; and afterwards, $12 a year.'" NTo book: can be taken from the library-room by any person whomsoever, except for the purpose of being used itn the court rooms. The present librarian is John William Wallace, esq."Th/-e Libwry of the F, anklinz institute, of the State of Pennsylvania, for the promotion of the mechantc arts, was founded about the year i:hS0(}, and contains 4,300 volumes, not including pamphlets. The apartmlent occu pied as the library and reading-room of the: society is 45 feet by 414. A catalogue was pritlted in 1S47, containing 117 pp. Svo. The library is open every day, except Sunday, froim 9 o'clock a. irn till 10 p. in. It is intelnded primarily for::the use of the members of the institute. The books are lent: out. Not less than 1,000 an:nually consult the library without taking away books-. The library is but an- auxiliary meanrs of producing the effects desired: by: the institute —the improvelmeit of its rilembelrs and is: not made or: considered a separate branrchl or departmrteen-t. It is intended, like the collections of models, machines, &c., to be open fobr. constant reference to the umembers and their friends. William IarnMilton, actuaryV and c?fficio librarianr.'ibrajc of the German Society-7,341 vols.-Tlhis library contai~r both German and English books. A catalogue (218 pp. l2mo.) was 129 [ 1o 20;printed in 1839. [Ludewig.] It is nowr said to contain nearly 1S,000 voltries, (January, 1851.) 7'he Library of the foour mronthly meetilngs of FrienzCs, of Philadelphia, was foGunded inl 1741, by a beqlest of Tlhomas Checkley. A catalogue:(150 pp. Svo.) was printed irn 1831. [Ludewigj.] College of St. 77zomas of Villancova, near Philadelphia.- This is a new institution, chartered in LS17. It has no regularly organized library, but possesses about 2,000 books of all kinds. J. P. 0. Luzen, O. s. A., president. Libr'ary of the Univesity of Pennylvaniea-c 5,000 vols.. —The UniversitV was founded in 17.50. The library at present contains about.5,000 volumes..tA catalogute (10)3 pp. 8vo.) was prepared alnd printed in 1i'29, by JludiSi D )')son. Trhe following facts are stated in the preface: ~Tis library was begun by private donations of the friends of the institution; aumong whom the Rev. WUilliam Snmith, the first provost of the college and academy, and Dr. McDowell, one of his successors, deserve to be particularly noticed. During the'revolutionary war our little collection Nas enriched by a donation in botoks from his Majesty Louis the Sixteenth. Those books, printed at the royal printing office, consist chiefly of mathematical works; of works on natural history, among which is a c(ollection of Mi. Buffon's; and some of the Byzantine historians. They have been all carefully preserved, and will, it is hoped, long remain a mlemorial of the liberality of that great and unfortunate monarch." itle Philomathean Society of undergraduates, founded in 1819, possesses a library of about 3,000 volumtnes. The Zelosophic Society, founded in 1829, has a library of 1,250 volumes. Librcary f' the Am2erican tapt ist Publication SociL-ty-1,032 vols. The Library of the His'or'iCal Society —1,72S ols.-The' Historical Society of Pennsylvania was founded in 1S25. The library contains 1,728 volumes, itncluding 47 volumes of bound manuscripts. The society also has collections of medals and coins. Most of the books have been received within the last five years, and principally by donation. The library is kept in the hall of the society, a room in the third story of the AthenmTum, about 29 by 42 feet in size. The books are arranlged according to subjects. The shelves are distinguished by letters, A, B, C, &c., an([ each shelf has a distinct series of numbers, commencing with No. 1. The first part of the catalogue was printed in 1849. It contains 36'pages Svo., and comprises the departments of history, biography, and manuscripts. The library is open on the evenings of the. meetings of the society, narmely, the second Monday of each month, and is accessible to the members of the society, and only by courtesy, to others. No record has until lately beetl kept of the use of the library. Williamn Dtane, librarian. The following notice prefixed to the published catalogue gives some additional facts respecting the library: "The Historical Society of Pennsylvania was founded in 1S825. It met for nineteen years in one of the rooms of the American Philosophical Society, and had the use of a small closet in this room to contain its books. In the year 1844 the society removed to a room rented by itself for its exclusive accommodation, Its collection of books then amounted to about sixty volumes, in addition to sonie boxes of public documents from Washington, which had not beeln opened,as the society had no place iln which to place the books. Immnediately after the removal, the library Vll~.-9 increased rapidly, and a still' 0rther increase has ibliowed its removalto their present loc:ation in the Ath'ena.im bui!ditng solth Sixth street. The 11 brary nowT armountS to abo t 1,7'50 volumrnes, di vided into ten classes~. hist-ory, biography, manmuscripts, pamphlets, periodicals, voyages and travels, newspapers, public documients of Pennsylvania, public documentsof the United States, and miscellaneous. These observations have been considered necessary to explain why a society twenty-four years in existence has not a larger collection of books. Hatd it not been for thecramped position it was compelled to occupy before it had a roomn of its, own, it would doubtless ha;e long since reached its present size.-'.atnuary 10, 1849." An address before the society, delivered by William B. Reed, on the~ occasion of opening the llal in the Athenmeum, January 2S, 1i48 has been printed, and contains some interesting fiacts concerning the society, besides valuable remarks and suggestions respecting tfhe objects of such an institution. PITTS BUIRtG.,le Y5oung Men's 2Jercantile Lib7ary and Mechanics' lIstitute —l,l. 88 vols. —Founclded September, 1 S47; incorporated March, 1849. The library contains (January 1., 1850) 1,188 volumes, a small collection of- etngravings, and about 353 mineralogical specimens. A reading-room of' valu, able journals is connected with the library. Since the establishment of the, institution, about 500 volumes have, each year, been added to the library, and about 450 dollars been expended in the purchase of books. The association occupies two rooms, each 29 by 55 feet, forming the 2d and 3d stories of a well built brick building. A catalogue is in preparation. T'he library is open daily from 8 a. m. till 10 p. m. The persons entitled to the use of the library are: mernbers by the pay. mnent of $4 per annum; life members by the payment of,$35 at one time; and honorary mlembers elected by the directors. About 2,200 books were lent out during the last year. J. Finney, jr.,. president. Y'heological Seminzary Libra,/.i, —1,500 vols.-This seminary -was incorporated in 1828. It is under the direction of the Associate Reformed Church. Washington College Libraries —3,300 vols. WVrESTCHESTER. PYte Chester County Cabinet of Alatural Sciences, at Westchester, Pennsylvania, was founded in March, 1S26, and incorporated in 1831. Its library contains 450 volumes, of which 150 are works on the natural sciences, chiefly botany, zoology, and geology; and 300 miscellaneous, general science, languages, and literature. It has a collection of original letters, from the principal general officers of the American army of' the Revolution; and also the autograph signatures of 10i3 distinguished patriots of the Re o!'tion, miltary and civil, cut fiom their letters to Gen. Anthony Wayne-all presented by his son, the IHon. Isae= Wayne. It also has several charts of the coast survey fron Professor Bache; a very few engravings and Medals, and about 400 coilns (300'copper and 100 silver,) am-olng which are S6 silver and 59 copper coins from 21 different governnients, collected during the circumnavigating cruise of the United States ship Peacock, in 1S35-'37, by the late Lieutenant Darlington, United' States navy, and presented by him. The additions to the library have been made very irregularly, and probably do not average more than 15 or 20 volumes annually. There is no regular expenditure for books. The greater portion of the boolks has been obtained by donation. A three-. story brick hall, roofed with tin, was erected il 1836 fbr the use of the. "Cabinet," and to contain its library and imuseum. The cost of the building was upwards of $5,~000. The hall of the "Cabinet" is 40 feet front by 50 feet deep; the lower story is fitted fir a lecture room, with a larboratory in the rear. The second story is a large room calculated fob an athenmu-m, or reading-room; and the third story contains the museuan and library of the "Cabine-t." There is no printed catalogue. The library is accessible to all the members at ieach meeting of the "Cabinet.:" rT'he books are lent out to members, when applied for. The Chester County Cabinet of Natural Science, in addition to thle library, &c., possesses one of lthe hest and most extensive collections of minerals in Pennsylvania; a splendid collection of shells, and of English and American birds; a herbarium of sevenl thousand species of plants, duly arranged, labelled, and catalogued; with various curiosities in nature and art. William Darlington, M. D., president. The/ Clester Coulty Athernteum was founded February 9, 1827,, a-ndi incorporated in 182S. The library contains i,431 volumes, consisting of' works on history, biography, natural science, travels, and the usual assortment of books proper for a village library. Until within the last six, years the institution w~- neglected;'within that time, by the exertion of' some public-spirited individuals, it has been resuscitated. and the annual increase is now from 130 to 160 volumes, and the annual expenditure for boolis from 11t( to 140 dollars. There is a written, but not a printed catalogue. The library is open every day, at all hours till 8 o'clock in the evening. The members and subscribers are entitled to the use of the. library on the following terms:-stockholders pay each $2 per year; subscribers $2 per year; minors $l; transient subscribers 6 cents per weekl for duiodecimos, 8 cents for Svos. The nuimber of books taken out forthe last three years has ranlged from 1,300 to 1,600 annually, and is increasing each year. Any respectable person call have the opportunity of consultrig the library, or taking home the books.'William Darlington, librarianL.. D EL A W A R E. DOVER. The State Library, and the Law Library, contain, together, abou;t 4,000 volumes. Since 1837 a'rooni in the capitol has been devoted ex~clusively to the use of the library. Occasional appropriations are madae by the legislature for the increase of the collection. About 100 volumes have been added annually for the last ten years. Books rmay be freely used by any citizen who subscribes the rules. Samuel C. Letherburyv librla.riant. .120] 132 NEWARAK. Delaware College Libraries-8,700 vols. —The college was founded in }1833. The college library contains 2,500 volumes. There are two so. tieties of undergraduates, with libraries of 1,500 volumes each. The private library of the president contains 2,000 volumes; and the private collections of two other members of the faculty contain 1,200 volumes. nhiese are all in the college building, and formn an aggregate of 8,700 voilumes, accessible to all persons connected with the college; and indeed t others wtlo may wish to use them for literary purposes. An effort is Ilaking to enlarge the college library. Rev. James P. Wilson, president. NEWVCASTLE. Public Library-4,000 vols.-The Newcastle Library Company was?Junded in 1812. The library contains about 4,000 volumes. It is sustained by an annual assessment of $2 on each share. The price of a share is $20. The library at present occupies a room in the town academy. Blamucl Guthrie, librarian. MARYLAND. ANNAPOLIS.'Tzhe State Library —A5,000 vols.-The State Library of Maryland was -ounded in 1827, and contains 15,000 volumes, besides 59 volumes of Mnanuscripts, 108 maps, 19 charts. The yearly aVerage number of volumes added to the library for the last ten years is 580. There has been an annual appropriation by the legislature of $500. There -is also in operationl a system of exchanges with other States. The library occupies a -room in the State-house. A catalogue (132 pages Svo.) prepared by David Ridgely, then librarian, was published in December, 1837, at Annapolis. -Tahe titles are classified under 37 chapters. The arrangement of the books upon the shelves corresponds with the divisions of the catalogue. The library is opened daily (Sundays excepted) during the sessions of the legislature, from 9 o'clock a. m. to the time of the daily adjournment of both houses, and from 5 to 9 p. m., except during night sessions, when it is kept open till the adjournment. The governor, chancellor, judges, State officers, members and ex-members of the legislature, lawyers practising in the court of appeals, and officers of the army and navy stationed at Annapolis, can take out books. Any, person may consult the library in the room. No record has been kept of loans or of visitors. Richard Swann, librarian. St. John's College Library-3,292 vols.-The library dates, with the college, from 1784, and contains 3,292 volumes. Occasional appropriations are made by the board for the increase of the library. The collection is in a room of the new brick college, 36 feet by 15, in 7 alcoves. The books are arranged according to subjects; only one catalogue has been printed-date 1847, pp. 38. The library is opened one hpur every Saturday. All persons connected with tlhe college are entitled to use the books; and they are occasionally lent, by courtesy, to others. About 800 volumes are lent in a year. William D. Greetham. librarian. 133 [ 12.. ] BALTIMORE. aThe Bnl~timore Library-15,000 vols.-The Library Company of Baltimore was founded in 1796, and possesses 15,000 volumes of printed books and five voli.mes of manuscripts: among them "Aristotelis Physica," 132i5. and "Nic. de Lyra, iVMatth.t" of the middle of the 14th century, with beautiy fill illumaintions; 20 collections of maps and charts; 100 volumes of engravings.. The income of the institution is derived from the annual payments of stockholders (about 265) and annual subscribers, and amounts to about $1,100 per annum. The building was erected in conjunction with the Marland Historical Society and the Mercantile Library Association, and was. a. gift from the citizens of Baltimore. (See Maryland Historical Society.) Te rooms of the Library Company are upon the second story of the edifice and consist of a library 47' by 53 feet, height 2)O feet, with a gal!eyy. Adjoining, at one end, is a directors' room, 14 by 16 feet; at the other end is a reading-room, 26 by 47 feet; and beyond that another, 14 Ly 32 feet. A catalogue was printed in 1798; a second in 1802; and a third in 1809. The last mentioned contains 196 pages 8vo., and has been corn tinned by supplements —the first in 1816, of 36 pages; the second in 1 822 of 40 pages; the third in 1831, of 2t pages; the fourth in 1841, of 28 pages. The library is open daily, except Sundays and certain holidays, in summer from- 8 a. in. to 6 p. im., in winter from 9 a. m. to 4 p. m. Persons; entitled to the use of the library are: stockholders paying 8100 for a 1'fiee' share, or $30 for a share and $5 per annunm, and subscribers at the rate of $8 per annum, or $1 per month. About 5,000 books are lent out ea6h year. Perhaps 100 persons, each year, consult the library without takinu away books. About 400 visitors each year. John S. Sumner, libraria n. St. lMary's College Library-12,000 vols.-The library was commenced with the institution in the year 1809, and contains about 12,000 volumes; a few manuscripts, among them a modern 4to. MS. entitled "Tableaa present des Etats Unis par George Novion," in 369 elegantly written pages, with. statistical tables: date, about 1791-2; some valuable maps. charts, and engravings. The annual increase is aboit 500 volumes. The library occupies two large rooms in the college edifice. The librarian is engaged in classifying the books according to subjects. There is:no printed catalogue. A complete MS. catalogue is in preparation. Thexre is no stated time for opening the library, but it is accessible at all times on application to the librarian. All persons connected with the institution. are entitled to the use of the books, and others are allowed the use on application. Books are sometimes lent out to read, but the practice is dis, countena-need at present on account of former abuse of the privileges XWith the permission of the superior, books may be lent to persons at a distance. Rev. M.. Feller, librarian. Thllis is a very excellent library, composed for the most part of them.1 logical and classical books, but not deficient in other departments.'There is a small library of some 600 volumes belonging to a society o~ students. The MV fe~caintile Library —v, OOO vols. —The Mercantile Library Associatfioz of Baltimore was established November, 1839, and incorporated January 18-42. The library contains (June, 1850) 9,000 volumes of books, I volumei of autographs, 20 maps, 15 framed engravings, 25 volumes of engravings. Tlhe yeardy average increase is about 700 volumes; the annual cxpendi 120o 134 tore for books $700. The library occupies the ground floor of the Baltimore Athenmum. (See Maryland Historical Society.) Its rooms correspond with those of the Library Company. A short catalogue, alphabetical, was printed in 1842, and a supplement in 1S44. Another catalogue (118 pages 12mo.) was printed in July, 1848. The library is.opened every day from 11 a. il, to 2 p. nm., and from 3 to 10 p. m. Ac-;tive members (who must be clerks by profession) pay for the privileges of the library $5 for the first year, and' 83 for each succeeding year. Hon~orary members (all persons other than clerkls) pay $5 per annum. James Green, librarian. The following table, compiled from the first six annual reports of the association (all that have been printed,) exhibits the early progress of the astitution. The last line shows its present condition: No. of volumes Dollars expend- Honorary Active mem- Use of librain library. ed during year members. hers. ry. for books. Volu mes. November, 1810.. 1, 400 1, 400 141 V125 2, 314 Do...1841.. 2, 100 80(0 150 262 4,204 Do....1842 2 839 890 122 312.......... o...1843... 3, 6}10 640...... 380 Do....1844... 4,393 854 112 i 31 7, 800 D0o....1845... 5,22 1 544............ 571 8, 500 June, 850.... 9,000 700 250 450 10,000 The Maryland Historical Society was founded in 1843, and incorporated March, 1844. The library contains 1,500 volumes, principally historical, and 270 volumes of' newspapers, published mostly in Maryland. The set of the Maryland Gazette commences in 1728, and. though this is imprfect, a complete series of papers printed in Maryland from that time to the present, exists in the library. The collection of manuscripts, though not large, embraces many of value and interest, especially those placed under the care of the society by the State legislature, as the journals of the old council, and letters to and from the governors and the proprietors. Among the MSS. are also several unpublished orders of General Washington, and some valuable letters from officers of the Maryland line, with regard to the southern campaign. A large and commodious building has been erected for the joint accommodation of the Maryland Historical Society, the Library Company of Baltimore, and the Mercantile Library Association. The Maryland Historical Society holds in fee the third floor of the Atheneum building; and this floor is divided into four inter-coinmiunicating apartments: a room for the use of the officers of the society, which is 14 feet by 23; a -meeting-room and library, 26 fbet by 47' and 23 feet high; a gallery of fine arts, 47 feet by 53, with a ceiling 23 feet high at the apex and sloping to 20 feet at the walls, lighted by a skylight in tile rof, affording 400 superficial feet of glazed surface; and a gallery for sculpture and casts from the antique, 14 by 23 feet. The rooms of the society are fiurnished in an elegant manner, with solid oak cases, tables, and chairs. The whole cost of the building was $28,182. The furnitare is valued at $8,000. 135 [120 ] As yet no regular catalogue of the library has been prepared for printm!in3' The ilibrary is open daily from 10 in the mlorning until 6 o'clock in the afternoon. The regbular meetings of the society are held Wpon the:first T'hursday evening of every inlo-tlh. Tihe iembers of the society,are, of course, en-titled to the use of' the library; but as the object of the institution is not only to collect valuable material, but to make it as generally useful as possible, the boolks, original papers, &cc., are at all times open to the examination and perusal of all who mnay. wish to refer to them, su0bject onlyv to the observance of such rules as are essential to their preservation. The books are not allowed to be taken from the rooms, except Xund~er cir,?nmstauces which appear to justify a departure from the rule; because, the library being chiefly valuable for parposes of reference, it is,thoughlt desirab!l that irivestigations should be conducted in the roomus as much as possible; and mucll inconvenience would result to the many from 4his partial accommodation of the few. The number consulting the qibrary is large, though it cannot be exac.tly stated. On!e ofkthe prominent features in the plan of the society was the estab dislhia:ent of chapters in the different counties of the State. It is hoped:that this novel but admirable project may, ere long, be realized. Francis B. 3iayer is thle acting librarian. From a letter of J. Miorrison Harris, esq., correspbnding secretary of the Historical Society, besides the foregoing statements, we quote the follow-ing passage, explanatory of the views of this energetic association, in the -establishment of the gallery of art: "The gallery of fine arts is intrusted to a committee who are elected to serve for one year,and who make all tie arrangements connected with exhibitions, &c. As this feature is not exactly connected with the purposes and legitinmate plan of an historical society, it may be well to say something in explanation of its connexion with our society. The idea was first suggested by an effort wtiich the society made, some years since, and still continues, to procure the originals or copies of the portraits of disting'uished men con nected writh the fbundina' of the colony, the events of its early history, and eminent in their associations with its annals down to the present.time. Our plan is to raie, by yearly exhibitions of good pictures, a funrd which will, by degrees, enable us to build up a gallery of our own, conlsisting of good copies of the best pictures of the old mtasters, and original pictures of merit by native artists; and we cherish the confident hope that, while the prosecution of this scheme will in no way inter. fere writh our hlistorical labors, it -will enable us to throw open, hereafter, to the man of taste and to the student, a well-selected collection of' paintings, vhichl willproduce upon the commlnity those good effects inseparable firom an elevateld appreciation of art." i'he follo wing is friom thle annual report made in February 1, 1849, by J. Spear Smnith, esq., president of tie society: " n the original project otf the Athenreum, it was deemed not only proper, but.essential, to embrace within it a gallery of fine arts. YVarious attemipts had precviously, and at differeat epochs, been made, to form andl sustain societies con ected wxith the subject, and in the hope of introducitig. the desirablle ac:comrpaninment of a perinamlelt gallery; but, notwithstanding the zed;l ar-d talente with which these nmeritorious essays were made, they taiiled of beirng attended wiith cxinlensurate success. If, therefore,.:such an olportunity as was now offered were permitted to escape, the -day seemed distant when Balttlmiore rwot'!d be in tho enjoyment of [ 120 ] 136 so attractive an addition to her public institutions. There existed also a. confident'belief that, underthe strong protection of the society, it could.. be alone intituted and successfully maintained. It was, consequently, no accidental circumstance which led to the union of a gallery with the society, nor did it arise from any.difficulty in the disposition of the space allotted to it. Being thus an element in the primary scheme, the architect was instructed to incorporate in the plan an apartment adapted in its proportions, and in the proper admission of light, to this object.'This was successfully accomplished, and with so much judgment as to have elicited the decided approbation of connoisseurs, and others versed in such matters. In accordance with the original design, the gallery fell under the administration of this society. This disposition of it seemed appropriate for many reasons, not the least of which was.the connexion, for the most part, of the productions of the painter and sculptor with historical persons or events. It was intended, also, to increase the attractions and popularity of the society, by affording an agreeable and tasteful relaxation to its members." The Odd Bellows' Library-3,541 vols.-The Odd Fellows' Librarywas established'in 1 849, though some books had been collected for thepurpose several years before. Last year, upwards of a thousand dollars were expended for books. An appropriation is regularly made from the funds of the different lodges, but no member is taxed additionally for the support of the library; yet every one has the full use of it. The Grand Lodge has appropriated a large room —about 60 fret by 20-on the.ifirst: floor of the hall, for its use; but it is hardly large enough to accommodate the numerous visitors. The hall is soon to be enlarged, and then, it is, supposed, a'fine suite of rooMrs wil! be assigned to the library. The only catalogue published, as yet, is one of the German books, (812 in numbter.) The library is open every evening, except Saturday, from half-past 7 to 11 in sumrner, and foomn half past 6 to 10 in winter. All the nmembers of' the Order in. Baltimore (about 8,000 in nlumber) are allowed the use of the books without charge. The circulation for one quarter ending July, 1S50, has been 2,331 volumes. John Shotton is librarian. Baltimore Female Collcge.-This institution was incorporated in 1850, witll power to confer degrees; it is located in St. Paul's street. It possesses a well-selected library of 2,800 volumes, to which the older pupilshave access. There is also a valuable collection of minerals, and a cabi. n:et of ancient and modern coins. Of ancient coins there are more than 500. [See catalogue of the B.' F. C. fbr 1S50.] Library of the Mi,,dico- Chirvrgia!l Society —2,000 vols. Library of the taedical Departb,:en t, University of ilars yland-1 0j00 vo's. Law Librory —1,000 vols. Several of the.Fire Coompanics in Baltimore possess valuable collectionsof books. The libraries of the Mechanical F:ire Company and of the, Patapsco Fire Cormpany number about 1,000 volumes each. Mechanics' institute Library —1,00t) vols. —'cThe Maryland Institute for the Promotion of the Mechanic Arts"' was founded in 184-, and incdrporated in 1849. It receives an annual grant of $500 from the State.. It-has' held three annual exhibitions of American manufactures. It supports a course of lectures during the winter mlonths, and has established a school' of design, which promises to be an important and highly useful branch of the institute. Among the objects of the association is the collection of a library. About 1,000 volumes have already been obtained5 137 [ 120 ] and vigorous efforts are making to increase the number. The institute is contemplating the immediate erection of a building for its purposes. CHESTERTOWN. Washington College Libraries —,100vols.-The College Library was founded in 1783. In 1827 the college was burned down, and only 1170 volumes rescued from the flames. In 1844 the college was revived, a new building erected, and 380 new volumes added. These, together with the valuable present of State papers, and other documents, by Hoti. J. A.. Pearce, form an aggregate of 1,000 volunmes, with some good colb lections of maps, &c. No yearly appropriation of money for the increase of the library has, as yet, been made, in consequence of the determination of the board to erect new buildings. After these are finished, a liberal sum will'be set apart for the purchase of books. There is a manuscript, but no printed; catalogue. Persons connected with the college are allbwed the use of the books without fee. Strangers are sometimes, by courtesy, permitted to use the library. S. S. Rogers, librarian. The Mount Vernon Society of Students, founded in 1847, has about 100 0volumes. EMMETSBURG. Mount &. Miary's College Library-4,000 vols. HAGERSTOWN. St..iamres College Libraries-3,500 vols. The College Library contains - - - 2,500 volumes. The Library of the Belles Lettres Society contains 500' The Irving Society Library contains - - 500 RO CKVILLE. The A.Montgomery County Library Association, founded in 1849, has a commencement of'a library. (115 volumes.) The nloney received by annual subscriptions will be devoted to the increase of the collection. Arrangements have been made for fitting up a room in the building formerly occupied as the county clerk's office for a library and reading room. The library is open daily from 9 to 3 o'clock. Persons become members of the association by subscribing to the constitution, and paying a small initiation fee. 0. W. Treadwell, librarian. The Academy at Rockville has a small library, containing about 150 yolumes, for the use of the students. SANDY SPRING. Sandy Sprin-g Library Comrnpany.-This library, founded in 1841, contains about 500 volumes. About 70 volumes are added each year, and about 40 dollars expended for books. A catalogue was printed some six years ago, containing 12 pages 12mo. The library is open daily from 6 a. m. to 10 p. m. It is resiricted to members of the company, who pay five dollars for a share, and $1 50 annual subscription. Joseph Gilpin, librarian. [1 2] 138 DISTRICT O F COLUMBIA. GEORGETOWN. College Lbraries- 26,100 vols. -The library of Georgetown College dates from the foundation of the college, in 1792, and contains at present 25,000 volumes. Many duplicates have been given to kindred institutions, and a valuable collection of astronomical works has been taken from the library and placed in the observatory attached to the college. About $350 a year are extended for books. The library is kept in a rooml 33} by 26 feet, most tastefuilly arranged with shelves of Brazilian wood, birds'-eye maple, curled maple, &c., the work of one of the members of the institution. There is also an octagonal room for state papers, journals, &c. No catalogue has been published, but one will soon be put to press. The books are arranged according to subjects. Only the faculty and students of the higher branches are entitled to take books from the library, and the person borrowing the book is strictly prohibited from lending it to any person, evenz iz the college. Books are very seldom lent out of the college; owing to the loss of several works, great caution is exercised in lending. Rev. J. Mt. Finotti, librarian. The Philodemic and Philonomosian Debating Societies have libraries of books in general literature, in all upwards of 1,100 volumes, purchased with the subscriptions of members, or presented by members on their admission to the societies. The college library is one of the most valuable in the country, particularly in theology arnd the classics. It contains a complete set of the Acta Salhctorum, the Church Fathers in the Benedictine editions, and many works of great value and rarity, at least in this country. WAS HINGTON. The Library of Congress —50,000 vols.-The first Library of Congress was founded April 24, 1800. It was collected under the direction of Dr. IMitchell, Mr. Gallatin, and others, and consisted of about three thousand volumes, when it was destroyed by the British army on the 24th of August, 1814. It was a valuable collection, and was much resorted to in the early days of the city. The total loss of the library induced Mr. Jefferson to offer his collection to Congress. It was purchased in 1815. It consisted of about 7.000 volumes, for which Mr. Jefferson received $23,000. It formed the nucleus of the present library, which contains (January 1, 1850) about 50,000 volumes, a fow manuscripts, a series of medals designed by Denon and executed by order of the French government, conlernomrative of' events during the reign of Napoleon; some valuable mnaps and charts, and busts of' several of the Presidents, with a few paintings of interest. rThe yearly average increase is about 1,800 volumes. $5,000 per annuwi are apprlopriated by Congress for the purchase of miscellaneous books, and'1,0(00 for law books. The library occupies three rooms in the Capitol, only one of which was originally designed for the purpose. The principal library-room is 92 feet in length, 34 feet in width, ard 36 feet. in height. It containls 12; alcoves-6 on each side-divided by a gallery. The books ar.e arrX.6rnged according to subjets, on the system of' Bacori. (Catalogues lavre been 139 [120 1 published as follows: In 1802 (10 pp. Svo.;) supplement, 1803 (3 pp.) and 1808 (41 pp.;) in 1812 (101 pp. Svo.;) in 1815 (170 pp. 4to., containing Jefferson's library;) supplement, 1820 (28 pp.;) and in 1830 and'31 (362 pp. Svo.) The last catalogue was printed in 1840 (747 pp. Svo.) The additions since that time are in annual supplements. A new catalogue is in press. The library is open every day during the sessions of Congress. During the recess it is opened on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday of each week, six hours each day. Members of Congress, the President and Vice President of the United States, Heads of Departments, Judges of the Supreme Court, Secretary of the Senate, Clerk of the House, agents of the Library Committee, and Foreign Ministers, are entitled to the use of the library, and are allowed to take out books. The number of books antu-.ally lent out is not kiown, nor can the number of persons consulting the library be stated. It is very great during the sessions of Congress. John "S. Mleehan, librarian; E. B. Stelle and C. H. WV'. Meehan, assistants; Robert Kearon, messenger. In the catalogue the works are classed according to the system of Lord Bacon. This system was introduced by Mr. Jefferson, and, unfortunately, has been continued here, after its abandonment in most other libraries. It was not intended by its author as a bibliographical systemi, nor has any improvement which it has received rendered it convenient or useful for that purpose. The Library of Congress is one of great value. It is worthy of a minute and accurate catalogue. It would be comparatively useless without one, were it not for the catalogue of its contents written upon the memory of the librarians. In a catalogue of thie Library of: Congress every book, pamphlet, map, handbill, speech, and important article in a retview or magazine, should be entered carefully and accurately under the name of its author, and alphabetical and analytical indexes of subjects should be made. The catalogue should be a model performance. Such an one should not, of course, be required from the present force employed in the library, which is not sufficient fbr the regular work of the establishment. The making of a catalogue should be a separate affair. The librarian is appointed by the President of the United States, and is governed by rules adopted by the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives. A joint committee of the two houses is charged with the purchase of the books. Librar?/ of the House of Represetiesetaties-12,000 vols.-Besides the Library of Congress, there is in the Capitol a library for the use of the members of the House, consisting mostly of public documents, and containing several sets, nearly complete, from the first commencement of the government. The aggregate number of volumes is at present upwards of 1.2,000. The annual increase is about 400 volumes. The library occupies a series of closets, triangular rooms, and attics, near the hall of the House. It is open daily while the House is in session, and is the constant resort of members, who alone are entitled to -the use of it. There is no printed catalogue, but one in manuscript. Philip Williams, librarian. Library of the State Department-7,000 vols.-The library commenced with the':Department of Foreign Affairs," in 1781. It contains at present about 7,000 volumes and 500 pamphlets. The number of maps:and charts unbound is about 1,500. The annual increase is about 50 volumes. About $l00 are expended for books. The library is in the [120 140o building of the department, and occupies two rooms. The larger is 36 feet long, 15 feet 9 inches wide, and 14 high, divided on one side into seven alcoves. The smaller room is 17 feet by 15 feet 9 inches. A catalogue was printed in 1825, (small 8vo., 67 pp.,) and another in 1830 (small 8vo., 150 pages.) Besides the public library of the State Department, there is a large collection of manuscripts relating'to the history of the country, in the archives of the department. The number cannot now be accurately stated. Copyritt books-State Department.-Since May 31, 1790, when the first copyright act was passed, books and other articles have been accumulating in the State Department, deposited there in accordance with the provisions of the law. They number at present about 10,000 volumes, besides maps and charts; over 3,(100 pieces of music, and more than SOO lithographic prints and engravings. The average annual increase of books for the last ten years has been about 4!)0 volumes. These articles are kept in two rooms in the State Department, each about 18S by 21 feet and 12 feet high. They are arranged in close presses, according to their subject-matter. There is no complete catalogue. The rooms are open from 9 o'clock a. m. to 3 p. m. on office days. The books are not lent out. But few persons consult the libraryprobably not more than 50 a year. Charles E. -Weaver, librarian. uThe Library of the War Dcepartment, W- ashington, was organized about the year 1832; when Lewis Cass was Secretary of War. It contains about 7,000 or 8,000 volumes, all the government medals, (50 or 60 in number,) and is well supplied with maps and charts. About $2,000 has for the last ten years been the average annual expenditure for the purchase of books. The library occupies a room in the'War Department 50 by 18 feet, handsomely furnished. It is open every day, excepting Sunday, from 9 to 3 o'clock. The heads of departments and bureaus, officers of the army and navy, foreign ministers, and the clerks of tlh War Department, are entitled to the use of the books, and are allowed to take them from the library. Charles Lanman, librarian. Columbianl College Libraries-6,200 vols.-The library of the Colurnbian College was founded in 1821. It contains (January, 1850) about 4,500 volumes, and some maps, charts, and eigravings. The yearly average increase is about 50 volumes. The collection of a fund for the library has been commenced. The librarian is now preparing a catalogue for the press. The library is opened once a week, and kept open several hours. Officers, students, trnstees, and such other persons as they may recommend, may use the books. There are two societies of students connected with the college, possessing in their libraries about 1,700 volumes. Library of the Navy Department.-The Navy Department has no regularly organized library. There are, however, valuable collections of books in the office of the chief clerk, in the Bureau of Ordnance and Hydrography, in the Bureau of Yards and Docks, and in the Bureau of Construction. In all there are not less than 3,000 volumes, including Congressional documents. The Library of the Patent Office contains about 6,000 volumes. A catalogue was printed in 1847, (34 pages 8vo.) The library has greatly increased since that time. It contains a valuable collection of' Works on chemistry, agriculture, technology, engineering, &c.; complete series of many valuable scientific periodicals; the best encyclopedias, English, 141 [120] French, German, &c. It is in a roomn in the Patent Office, and under the care of a librarian appointed by the Commissioner of Patents. Treastury Department-2,000 vols.-Books have, from tirme to time, been procured by occasional appropriations by Congress, for a library of the Treasury Department. Until the present year, however, no such. institution has been regularly organized. Very recently Mr. John Taliaferro, of Virginia, has been appointed librarian; a roon in the Treasury building, 60 feet by 20, has been appropriated and fitted up for the collection; and mneasures have been taken for establishing a library upon a perma. nent foundation, and procuring for it books important to the officers of the department, for whose use the library is principally designed. The Library of the EnWgineer Departnient contains about 1,700 vollmes, including Congressional documents, of which the sets are nearly complete since 1805, many manuscript official reports, and a large number of maps and charts relating to the defences of the country. The yearly average increase is about 50 volumes. Books are purchased out of the contingent fund of the department, annually granted by Congress. The library is in the office of.the Chief Engineer, XWinder's building, and is open every day from 9 to 3 o'clock. Books are lent to the officers of the department, the clerks, and to other persons by courtesy. The assistant to the Chief Engineer is ex officio librarian. The present officer is Captain Frederick A. Smith, United Siates engineers. Washing-ton Library —5,000 vols.-The "Directors of the Washaington Library Company" were incorporated by act of Congress, approved April 18, 1814. The library contains about 5,000 volumes, and increases at the rate of about 50 volumes per annum. The price of a share is $12, subject to an annual assessment of $3. The library is open daily from 3 o'clock till 6 p. m. A catalogue was printed in 1835, containing 75 pages 12meo. The Library of the Smithsonian Inzstitution 6,000 vols.-The Smithsonlian Institution was established;by act of Congress, 10th August, 1846, upon a fied bequeathed by James Smithson, esq., of England. The act of Congress provides that the Board of Regents, to whom is intrusted the management of the institution, shall make an annual appropriation, not exceeding $25,000 a year, for the collection of a library. By a resolution of the Regents the whole income of the institution is to be perpetually divided into two equal parts; one half to be devoted to the publication of memoirs, reports, &c., the instituting of researches, and the support of lectures, &c.; the other part to collections in science, literature and art. Common expenses are to be divided equally between the two departments. As the museum and cabinet will require but small annual appropriations, the greater part of the half of the income devoted to collections will be expended for a library. From this provision, and from gifts, exchanges, and bequests, we may justly hope to see, ere long, upon this foundation a library worthy of the United States of America-one which shall release us from a provincial dependance in literary matters upon the libraries of Europe. As a full account of the collection at present belonging to the institution will be found in the librarian's report (to which this is an appendix,) it is unnecessary to give further details in this place. The library is open daily, during business hourA. The books are accessible to all who wisht to use them in the room. The use of the library is already considerable. The number of visitors is very great. C. C. Jewett, librarian. [ 120 142 The Natiomral I.nstitute for the tromlotion of ScieCzce was founded at Washington iR May, 1840, and incorporated by act of' Congress, approved 27th July, 1842. The library contains 3,1.73 volumes and pamphlets. It has three manuscripts, viz: two Arabic, and one illuminated Latin. There are, also, considerable collections of maps, charts, and engravings. In the cabinet are malny medals, coins, &c. The library has been received entirely by donation and exchange. It is of course quite miscellaneous; but it contairns mant V;aluable scientific and historical works, and' transactions of' learned societies. Many usefil and costly books have been obtained for the institute by Mr. Alexandre Vatternare, thle well known advocate of the system of international exchanges. The librarly occupies, temporarily, a room, 22 feet square, in the Patent Office of the United States. There is' nio printed catalogue, but one in mzanuscript. The library is always opened when calls are made especially for books;.but there are no stated times for opening it. No rules have been adopted respecting the use of' the library. Members of the institute are entitled to visit the library, and there consult books as they -wish; but they cannot take thetm away. Dr. James H1. Caustev,, jr., librarian..1efi;?rson Apprevntices.Library —2,000 vols. Library of the Observatorq —500 vols.-The observatory (depot of charts and instruments) was established in 1842, under the Navy Department. Its library is composed mostly of mathematical works. VIRGI NI A. BE RRYVILLE. The Academy Library-l, 000 vols.-The president and trustees of this institution, in their report to the president of the literary fund, in 1835, state:'"About 2.5 years since a lot of ground, containing about two acres, was procured in the town of Berryville, and a building erected thereon by private contribution, at an expense of about $3,000, which has since been constantly occupied as an English and classical academy. A few years sintce further subscriptions were entered into for the gradual purchase of a library of about 1,000 volumes, to be attached to the academy; which library is also in successful operation, and promises to be extensively usefill, both to the students of the academy and to the residents in its immiediate neighborhood." B ETHEIANY. CollegAe Libraries-'2,2SO vols. —The library of Bethany College was founded in 1840, and contains 1,224 volumes, 12 maps and charts, and 21 engravings. One-half of the matriculation fees received from students is devoted to the library. The fund consequently fluctuates with the number of new students each successive session. The library is opened one hour each week. All persons connected with the institution are entitled to the use of the library. Books are not lent to other persons. There are two literary societies connected with the college. The Neotrophia..n Society, founded in November, 1841, has a library of 562 volumes. The American Literary Institute, founded in Decelber, 1841, has a library of 494 volumes. J. D. Pickett, librarian. 14B3 [ 20o B3OYDTOWN')f, HfECi:LENB3URG COUNTY. Library otf fRanmdl1h M2kcon?, Coll/ece, near Boydtown1-6,000 Ivo.s.This institution was incorporated in 1832. Its library and nineralogical cabinet are valued, in the report to the president of the literary fiind, in 1835~, at.$2,500. The number of volumes in its libraries is stated in the AmLerictE.an Ailmanac, for 1850, at 6,000. 13'UN-SWICK COUNTY. Ebenezer A.cadriemy, incorporated in 1795, reports to the president of the literary fund, in 1835, "a small, library." CAIROLINE COUNTY. Jlapp~vahtanlockc Acardey. — Itcorporated 1509-'10. The trustees in their report to the president of the literary fund, in 1583.5, say:'"Connected with the institation is a library, selected, for the mlost part, by the late Colonel John Taylor, who may be regarded as the father of the institution, and purchased with funds obtained by the sale of the organ belonging to Mount Church. T'he library contains works on law, medicine, theology, history, biography, science, geography, political economy, &c., &c. It is, however, very inadequate to the wants of the academy; but such additions are made to it, from tinre to time, as its feeble mneans will al. low.'' CHARtLOTTES VILLE..Libracry of the UTiversity of Virginia -18,378 vols.-The library was founded in 1:825, and contains 18,378 volumes, 24 maps and charts, and 2,000 engravings. The yearly average increase for the last ten years has been 413 volumes. rhe yearly average expendittire, prior to 1848, $.500; for 184S, $1S000. The regular annual appropriation, out of the revenues of the university, is $500t. The Madison legacy of i$1,500 yields $90 per annum, fo:r the increase of the collection. The library occupies the third story and dome of the rotundo —a circular brick building, 75 feet in diameter, erected in 1825, expressly for a library, for $70,0t00. The two lower stories are used f:or lecture-rooms, laboratory, museum, &c. A catalogue was printed il 182S cortaining 116 pages Svo. The library is open daily for an hour and a half. IThe rector, visitors, professors, and students of the university, and no others, are entitled to the use of the library. To these persons books are lent out under certain prescribed limitations. About 3,000 are taken out annually. About 275 persons, ill year,, consult the library witythout tlkin0, awar books. W;illiamt'Westen-. baker, librarian. "'This library vras originally selected and arranged by MAr. Jefferson. It has since been augmented by several valuable donations, anmong whic'h are the-legacy of Mr. idadison, amounting to 587 volunmes; that of the late Christian Bohn, esq., a generous and enlightenled citizen of Richmond, amrounting to 3,3o80 volumes; and a donation of 23/1 works by an unknown and benevolent lady, through the Rev. Dr. Alexander, of Princeton. It contains an unusually large propcrtion of standard literary [ 10] 144 and scientific works in the principal European languages, toget'her xithl a rich and extensive collection of engravings." [Aninual catalogue, 18.18-'9 ] EMOIZRY, WAS5ING1TON COUNTAY. Eor al'nd Hfiea7r? CGollege Libraries-,001 vols. — he college library was foun(ed in 1839, and centains 2,591 voluirm es, 51 maps and charts, and. 63 coins. rThe yearly average increase, for the last ten years, has been 250) volumes. The average annual expenditure about 875, raised by a tax of $1 a year on each person using the library. A catalogue (28 pages 12mo.) was printed in 1QS46. The library is open one hour and a half each week. Any person paying the fee, and conforming to the rules, may borrow the books. E. Longley, librarian. There are two societies of students possessing libraries: the Hermresian Society, 2,693 volumes; and the Calliopean Society, 2,717 volumes. FAIRFAX COUNTxY. 7The Episcopal Theological Seminary of Virginia —4,995 vols.-'The library, founded, contains 4,995 volumes, besides a considerable number of' unbound periodicals and paimphlets. There is no permanent fund for the library. About $50 a year are appropriated by the trustees fobr the purchase of books. The library-room is about 30 feet by 15. The library is opened twice a week. Those connected with the institution, and a few gentlemen in the neighborhood, are entitled to the use of the books. About 650'books are lent out in a year. There is a small library (200 vrolumes) belionging to the Rhetorical Society. Professor Packard, D. I)., librarian. LEXINGTON. 1'Vashincgons z College Libraries-4,997 vols.-The college library wras founded in the spring of 1776. On October 13, 1774, a resolution was passed by the Hanover presbytery, appointing a committee to raise subscriptions for this purpose. In 1837 the library, though more than 60 years old, scarcely contained 700 volumes, and those were in a very shattered condition. It had no ftLnd or other means of increase. A small fee has, for several years, been1 imposed upon every matriculate, which'is devoted to the library, and yields fromn $125 to $150 per annum. Since 1837, about 230 volumes of public documenrts have been received from Congress, and about 420 volumes, "of a solid and substantial character," have been added by purchase. The library now contains 1,397 volumes. The college laws provide only for its use by students and professors, who can have access any day for consultation, and can take out books on the regular days twice a weeks, Ot'her persons would doubtless be allowed,the use of the books on applying for permission. There are, besides, two li.terary societies connected with the college, possessing libraries of 1,800 volumes ea(,h, Rev. P. Calhoun, librarian. VTirgnia Military Institate, -The library, follunded in 1841, contains 2,5C0 volumes. The average annual increase has been 250 volumes. For the last five years, the State legislature has appropriated $500) per annum for the library. This is the only permanent resource. A roorm, 145 [ 120 ] 20 by 20 feet, in the public building, is appropriated to the use of the library. The library is open half an hour each week. The use of it to offSiers and cadets is gratuitous. About 1,500 volumes a year are lent out. Any person of respectability can always procure a book on application. Col. Francis H. Smith, librarian. MADISON COURT-HOUSE. Library Associtationz —353 voDs.-Founded January 1, 1842. The library contains 353 volumes, 2 manuscripts, 25 maps, 6 charts. It is opened once a week, and kept open two hotrs. A person may become a mlember by paying $1 per annurm. T. J. Hlumphreys, librarian. NORTIHUMB ERLAND COUNTY. Academy Library-f150 vols.-Founded in 1819. The trustees in their report to the president of the literary fund, in 135, state: "' The trustees have commenced a library, and have procured about 150 volumes of books, a set of globes and surveying instruments, and some maps; and for the want of funds, are unable to proceed further in this way." PARKERS BURG. Literary Association-360 vols.-Incorporated January 11, 1844. The library was commenced in the atutumn of that year, and contains 360 volumes. About $40 a year are expended for books. The library is open every week-day during business hours. Persons entitled to the use of the books are: 1. Members of the association, who.pay three dollars per annum; 2. Subscribers, who pay $2 per annum; 3. Apprentices, wards, and children of members or subscribers (they being responsible,) at $1 per annum. The average annual issue of books is about 225. Non subscribers may obtain the use of books by depositing their value. S. C. Shaw, librarian. PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY. Unionz Thteological Seminary-4,306 vols.-This institution is under th`e direction of the Presbyterians. It was founded in 1812. The library was founded in 1828, and contains 4,306 volumes and some manuscripts. The increase is slow; less than 100 volumes a year. Efforts are in progress to raise a fund for enlarging the library. The books are kept at present in the gallery of the seminary chapel. There is a catalogue, printed in 1833, of 107 pages Svo. The library is open on Tuesdays and Fridays, one hour, All persons connected with the seminary and the faculty of Hampden Sidney College are entitled to the use of the books. The collection is a very valuable one, and is often consulted; but books are not lent out to others besides those mentioned, except on the personal responsibility of the librarian. The Society of Inquiry on Missions has 200 bound volumes and a multitude of papers and pamphlets. Rev. Samuel S. Graham, librarian. Hamrnpden Sidney College Libraries-8,000 vols.-This college was chartered in 1783. In 1835, the president and trustees, in their report to Mis.-10 [lo20] 146 the president of the literary fund, say.: " The college has a few books,. scarcely deserving the name of a library. The two societies have eachl a respectable library." "By the census of 1840, this institution had 66 students, and 8,000 volumes in its library."l [Howe's Hist. Coll.] This number probably includes the books in the society libraries. PRUNTYTOWrN TAYLOR COVNTY., Rector Colege Librar~y-2,000 vols —This college was chartered by the legislature in 1838. It was opened for the reception of students in 183 9 The library was founded in 1840. It is a 6"valuable collection of more; than 2,000 volumes, containing the Latin and Greek' classics, a choice selection of works of modern authors, Ernglish7 Frenc.h, Germatn, SISanish, &c. In the departments of theology, anatomy, mnathematics, history, and; moral science and law, are many standard authors."' The whole library was collected in contributions from a great number of clergymen, officers of colleges and seminaries, and individuals in the New England States, but mostly in Massachusetts. The room occupied by the library is 251leet square, in the third story of the brick building erected for the college in 1838-'39. The library is open one hour a week. All the oficers and students are entitled to the use of the library; the latter pay fifty centa year for the privilege. Books are also lent to personis living in the town and vicinity. Besides the college library,' the principal has a private library of 1,000 volumes, acessible to all the. students. Charles Wheeler7 principal. RICHMOND. State Library of Virginia-14,000 vols.-Founded in 1828, ancd contains about 14,00i0 volumes. There is a permanent fund derived fioiln sales of books and nmaps published by the State, devoted to the increase of the library. It will yield about $2,000 per annum. The library occupies two rooms in the capitol; the larger 35 feet sqiuare, with- a gallery containing an upper range of shelves; the smaller room is about 30 feet by 15. Several catalogues have- been printed. The last is "A Catalogue of' the Library of the State of Virginia, arranged alphabetically, under ditff ferent heads, with the number and size of the volumes of each work specified; to which are prefixed the rules and regulations provided for its government" —157 pages Svo.: Richmond,/1849; it is a handsomely printe&d catalogue, in which the books are arranged under twelve divisions. The' departments best supplied are those of law, politics, and history. The general collection is very good. About 200 volumes have been received through M. Vatternare's system of exchanges.- The library is open daily, Sundays and holidays excepted, from 9 a. m., to 3 p. m. Officers of government, judges of the courts, and members of the legislature are entitled; to the use of the library. The customary courtesies are extended to visitors and to persons engaged in literary or scientific research. A note payable to the governor for double the value of the book, o rset to which it belongs, must be given by any person taking a book from the' library,. conditioned upon its prompt and safe return. The note is to contain a further forfeiture for every day's detention of the book beyond the specifieds time. W. H. Richardson, librarian ex Ofcio. 147 [ 120] Thie Virginia Historical and Philosophical Sciety — 1,200 vols.-This oeiety was formed 29th December, 1831. The General Assembly, by an act of the 10th March, 1834, incorporated the society, and by resolution of the, 6th February, 1835, directed to be presented to it a copy of the large map of Virginia, and such books and papers belonging to the library fund as the joint committee on the library may designate. A leading object of the society was to collect and preserve books and papers, both in print and manuscript, relating to the history of America, and especially of Virginia; to make its library a repository of everything of the kind, as far as practicable. [See preface to C. Robinson's "Voyages to North America, 1520 to 1573,"' Svo.' Richmond, 1848. Prepared for the society.] The library of the society now contains -about 2t)0 volumes, and about 50 man/scripts, relating chiefly to the history of Virginia, and a few medals, coins, and relies. But few purchases have been made. The library is kept in a large room in the law building, in which the meetings of the society are also held. It is open for consultation daily at all hours. Members of the society can introduce others. No books are allowed to be taken from the room. Perhaps 100 different persons consult the collection in'a year.. Willi'am Maxwell, corresponding secretary -d librarian. The private library of Mr. Maxwell, lent to the society and deposited in their rooms, contains about 1,000 volul mes. Richmond College Library-!,200 vols. —This library, founded in 1843, contains 1,200 volumes, a few maps, and about 40 diagrams for illustrating natural philosophy. The library occupies a room (12 by 18 feet) in the college bu-ilding. It is opened once a week for half an hour, and fre-.quently at other times, by request. Students who have the gospel ministry in view, pay nothing; other students pay $1 per annum for the use of the books. The Mtu-Sigma-Rho Society has 60 volumes of books and a reading-room, with 6 periodicals, accessible by paying 64 cents per month. Robert Ryland, president. The Librargy Association-1,600 vols.-This association published in 1841 a catalogue of its library, inl 22 pp. Svo. ROMNEY. Library o the / iterary Society —, 000 vols,-The "' Literary Society of Romney" was founded on the 4th of February, 1819, and incorporated by an act of the General Assembly of Virginia, passed January 3, 1823. A leading object of its institution was the purchase of a library of valuable standard authors, by the annual subscription' of its members-an object which has been since steadily pursued, its present library of 1,00( vols. having been acquired solely by this means. By the liberality of the legislature (acts of the 6th of January, 1832, and of 15th of February, 1844,) the society, having then become possessed of considerable means, procured an act to be passed on the 12th of December, 1846, conferring upon it authority "' to establish at or near the town of Romney a seminary of learning, for tile instruction of youth in the various branches of science and literature." Irmmediately after the passage of this last act the "Romney Classical Institute" was fbunded under the auspices of the society, and is in a very prosperous condition. After 1853 the society will have received an endowment of $20,000; and will possess a permanent fund of [ 20] 148 812,000, yielding $720 per annum; -one-half of which is devoted to the support of the Romney Classical Institute, and the remainder to the purposes of the Literary Society-the purchase of books, philosophical apparatus, &c. In 1845 a handsome brick building (two stories high, main building 54 feet by 40, with a wing forming a convenient residence for the principal of the institute) was built by the Literary Society, for its own use, and for an academy. The building and grounds cost about $8,000. The upper story of the main building is devoted to the use of the society, and is divided into two roomls —a hall for meetings, and a library. The meetings of the society are held in public, semi-monthly, for the discussion of questions literary, moral, &c.; and lectures on various subjects are occasionally delivered before it, by its own members or others, on the invitation of the society. By resolutions of the society, the use of its library is extended to ministers of the gospel of all denominations gratis, and to citizens generally on the same terms as those on which it is enjoyed by its own members. A'l catalogue of the members and library" was printed at Romney, June 1, 1849: 16 pages 16mo.'There are at present twenty regular members, who pay $3 each per annum to the library fund; and eight library members, admitted under certain regulations of the society, and paying the same fees. Persons having the use of the library are furnished with keys, and may enter at any time. Clergymen of the village, or vicinity, and the principal of the institute, are the only persons to whom the privileges of the library have been gratuitously extended. The librarian is A. P. White, of Romney. The principal of the institute is E. J. ~Meany. WILLIAMSBURG. William and Mary College Library —5,000 vols.-This college, next to Harvard the oldest in the country, was founded in 1692. It is not known with certainty when the library was commenced. It now numbers about 5,000 volumes. It is supported by a matriculation fee, or tax, of $5 a year from each student, amounting to about $400 a year. The library is opened one hour a week. There is no printed catalogue. Professor M. 3. Smead, librarian. NORTH CAROLINA. CHAPEL HILL. Libraries of the University of North Carolina —-1,847 vols.-The University of North Carolina was incorporated December 11, 1789. The business of education was commenced early in the year 1795. At that time the library was begun. (See History of the University of North Carolina, American Quarterly Register, November, 1842.) It now contains 343 folios, 357 quartos, 2,536 octavos, and 265 duodecimos; in all, 3,5()1 volumes, besides a collection of manuscripts, principally relating to the history of North Carolina. The shelves of the room occupied as a library have been for some time more than full; and for this, among other reasons, little effort has been made to increase the library. A separate building is in contemplation, and will probably be erected during the ensuing year; and, when this is completed, it is expected that systematic 149 [ 120 ] arrangements will be made for the increase of the library. The library is open five times a week, an hour at a time. The faculty and the students use the library without fees. Ashbel G. Brown, A. M., librarian. There are two literary societies connected with the college which have valuable libraries. The Dialectic Society has 26 folios, 93 quartos, 2,478 octavos, and 1,938 duodecimos; in all, 4,535 volumes. A catalogue was printed- in 1821, (21 pp. 12mo.,) containing 1,673 volumes; another in 1835, (26 pp. 8vo.,) containing 3,060 volumes. The Philanthropic Society has 26 folios, 167 quartos, 3,314 octavos, 804 duodecimos, et inf.; in all, 4,311 volumes. A catalogue was published in 1822, (IS pp. 8vo.,) containing 1,473 volumes. These libraries are in buildings apparently connected with the wings of the other college buildings; separated, however, by a wall and copings of some four feet high. They were erected in 1847, of brick, at an expense of $10,000. The rooms are fitted up with alcoves 8 by 8 feet on each side. The central aisle is 20 feet wide; the length of the room 37 feet. All residents on the Hill who seem to be proper persons to have books, are allowed to use them without charge. The libraries are opened twice a week for an hour. The books in both are well selected, and in fine condition: they are much used. MECKLENBURG COUNTY. Davidson College Libraries- 1,200 vols. RALEIGH. State Library-3,-000 vols. SALEM. The Fayette Academy possesses a library, founded in 1804, containing about 1,500 volumes. The library is for the use of the teachers and pupils of the academy, which is an unincorporated institution of the Mo. ravian Church. E. A. de Schweinitz, principal. VALLE CRUCIS, WATAUGA COUNTY. Mission School Library —1,500 vols. WAKE FOREST. Wake Forest College Libraries-4,700 vols. SOUTH CAROLINA. CHARLESTON. The Library Society-20,000 vols.- The library was founded in 1748. On the 15th of January, 177S, it was nearly destroyed by fire; only 185 volumes of 5,000 or 6,000 being saved. It now contains 20,0(0 volumes. Its average annual increase for the last ten years has been 180 volumes, besides pamphlets. Average annual expenditure for the same period,-about [ 120 ] 150 $1,000. The income of the institution is derived from an annual assessment upon the members of $10 each; from rents of rooms and buildings belonging to the society, and from admission fees of new members, $25 each. It of course varies with the rise or fall -of rent, and the number of new members admitted. It is at present about $2,500. A brick building, erected and long occupied by the Bank of South Carolina, was purchased about ten years ago by the society, and the upper story, consisting of one room 40 feet by 35, and two others, each 20 feet square, was fitted up at an expense of $2,000 for the library. The rooms on the first story are rented as offices. A three-story brick building belonging to the estate is rented as a dwelling-house. "A catalogue of the books belonging to the Charleston Library Society, published by order of the society,' containing 375 pages Svo., was printed at Charleston in 1826. This is a classed catalogue, with an alphabetical index of authors and the titles of anonymous works. The preface contains a minute history of the society, with some excellent remarks on the arrangement and cataloguing of a library. Volume two of the catalogue, containing books purchased since 1826, in 144 pp. 8vo., was printed at Charleston ill 1845. This volume is classified, but the classification is different from that of the first volume. It has no index. "A list of books obtained by the Charleston Library Society since the, publication of the second volume of the catalogue of books, being the first supplement to the same, prepared by the librarian, and printed by order of the society," was published in 1847, at Charleston. It is alphabetical, and contains 23 pages 8vo. Several catalogues were printed before the destruction of the first library: in 1790, in 1802, in 1806, another in 1811, whlen the library contained 7,000 volumes. Some supplementary pages rwere printed in 1816 and 1818. The library is open every day, Sundays and holidays excepted, from 10 o'clock a. m. to 3 o'clock p. m. About 5,000 volumes are lent out annually to members of the society or to their orders. The book committee may extend the privileges of the library occasionally to others. William Logan, secretary and librarian. The following interesting sketch of the history of this important institution is taken from the preface to the catalogue of 1826. "The Charleston Library Society owes its origin to seventeen young gentlemen, who, in the year 1748, associated for the purpose of raising a small fund to'collect such new pamphlets' and magazines as should occasionally be published in Great Britain. They advanced and remitted to London ten pounds sterling as a fund to purchase such pamphlets as had appeared during the current year, acting at first under a mere verbal agreement and without a name. Before the close of the year their views became more extensive; and on the 2Sth D)ecember, rules for the organization of the society were ratified and signed, when they assumed the name of a Library Society, and made arrangements for the acquisition of books as well as of pamphlets.'Officers were first elected on the 1st of April, 1749, and a few members were added during the spring and summer of that year. But as soon as the benefits of such an association were distinctly understood, the s6ciety became popular, and before the close of the year 1750 numbered morle than 160 members. 151 E 120 ],"Efforts were made at an early period to obtain an act of incorporation. In the spring of 1751, through the influence of some of its members, a brill for incorporating the society was passed through both houses of Assembly, but was defeated by the governor, who refused his assent and:signature. In the spring of 1752 another bill was passed through the legislature, which shared the same fate; and in 1753 the agent of the colony in London was requested to make every exertion in his power to obtain from the Privy Council in Great Britain a charter for the society, or instructions to the governor to ratify the act which both houses of the 4Colonial Assembly had passed. Upon an application to the Board of Trade by the agent, and some gentlemen who interested themselves in behalf of the society, they were informed that the measure was not considered as contrary to his Majesty's instructions, but that it was unprecedented to ratify in England a bill to which the governor of a province had refused his assent.. "It is difficult now to ascertain the causes which created these obstrictions to the incorporation of a literary society. But the effect was injurious,,and had nearly produced a dissolution of the association. The members finally resolved to place their funds at interest, and make no further pur. chases until a charter could be obtained. A third bill, however, was passed in 1754, to which Governor Glen finally gave his assent, and on the 24th June, 1755, it was confirmed by the Crown. c"From this time the progress of the society was rapid and satisfactory. The members continued to invest a portion of their income in bonds, and soon began to embrace in their views the establishment of an institution for education in connexion with their library. "Such was the increase of their funds, that in January, 1775, the amount in bonds was 18,000, and between two and three thousand pounds were added to this sum between this period and the 1st of January, 1778.'"The library of the society, at the same time, was receiving regular additions from annual purchases and the donations of individuals, which were then frequent. Great attention appears, from the minutes of the society, to have been paid at this period to classical literature, and many discussions took place as to the portion of the funds which should be annually applied to this department of literature. The collection of classical authors and of commentators on the classics was not only respectable from its number, but valuable for the selection; for some excellent scholars then superintended this portion of its labors. "It was in all probability this steady adherence of the society to the future establishment of an academy or college, (for the professors indicated in the report of the committee were adapted to a collegiate course of studies,) and the complexion of the library, that induced Mr. John M['Kenzie, a lawyer of eminence in Charleston, who died in the summer of 1771, to bequeath a valuable library to the society fbr the use of a college when erected in this province. These books were received, dis-:tinctly marked, and always kept apart from the books of the society. "' The commrencemnent of our revolutionary struggle suspended all schemes of improvement. It soon became difficult for the society to collect its funds-it became more difficult to invest them; a large sum was placed in the treasury of the State, and the certificates of this debt were for a long time unproductive memorandums. 6 But a heavier calamity awaited the society. The fire of the 15th [ 120]- 152 January, 1778, which destroyed nearly one-half of Charleston, broke out a little after midnight in the immediate vicinity of the library. From the hour, the violence of a north wind which unfortunately blew, and the conmbustible materials with which our houses were usually built, the neighborhood was enveloped in flames before any effectual assistance could be rendered. The library, which then contained, according to the statement of Dr. Ramsay, who was a member at the time, between five and six thousand volumes, almost totally perished. A melancholy record on the journals states that only 185 volumes were saved, and many of these were volumes of mutilated sets. " M'Kenzie's library, from some circumstance, probably accidental, fared better than that of the society: about two-thirds of the books were saved, though many of the sets were broken. "' This loss could not at that time be repaired. The war closed ourcommunication with England, and the British maritime force intercepted our intercourse with Europe. A few books were procured in the city, but Charleston itself fell into the possession of the British in the spring of 1780& " From a report made to the society in October, 1786, it appears that Fr. J. Fariau, who had been elected librarian in January, 1780, remained in Charleston during the time that this city was occupied by the British troops; that he took charge of the library, removing it with him from place to place as- circumstances compelled him to change his habitation, and that. it was owing to his assiduous care that the remnants of these libraries were saved from entire destruction. " Immediately after the peace the society was reorganized, officers were appointed, and its meetings regularly resumed. But its funds were in a ruinous condition. Its members had been widely scattered by the accidents of war. Some had perished, many left the country, and those that remained could render but little effectual aid to its treasury. The country had been rendered desolate. The fortunes of individuals were prostrated, and where the bonds remaining to the society were eventually good, it was difficult to collect either the principal or the interest. For several years, although some few purchases of books were made, the society seemed to exist rather as a social club than as a literary association. " If a catalogue entered on the books on the 3d November, 1790, is faithful-and there seems no reason to doubt its correctness-the library of the society then contained only 342 volumes, and M'Kenzie's books were reduced to 403 volumes. The librarian's minutes corroborate this statement, for they show that, in 1790 and'91, it was uncommon for more than three persons to take out books in the course of a month, and in some months none were borrowed. " At length, in 1790, some debts due the society were put in a train for payment, and the indents which had been received for the money deposited at the commencement of the war in the treasury of the State, amounting to about $11,00, which, though frequently urged, it had wisely declined to sell, were funded and rendered valuable. It was then ordered that this stock should be sold; that $6,400 should be subscribed to the Bank of the United States, and that the remainder, with whatever sum should be received from their bonds or notes, should be applied to the purchase of books. The resolutions for the establishment of an academy were at this time finally repealed. The books which were imported in consequence of these orders, and which, from many circumstances, were delayed until the close of the year 1192, may 153 [ 120] be considered as the foundation of our present collection. From this time the increase of the library has been regular though moderate, and the early misfortunes of the society will account for its deficiency in ancient literature, and even in the political writings which preceded our revolutionary contest. In 1808, the books in the library amounted to 4,500 volumes; by the catalogue of 1811, to 7,000; and the number now probably exceeds 12,()00. "If this library should be found small, it must be remembered that it has been formed within a few years, from the very moderate contribution of its members. It has no patron to boast of-no act of public munificence to record. If we except a few donations of single volumes or sets of books,+ and one legacy from Benjamin Smith, in 1770, of about $600, ($1,000 currency,) we find no memorial of other assistance. " Previous to 1765, the library was kept at the houses of the respective librarians. ": Gabriel Manigault, esq., who'had been president or vice president of the society for many years, then presented the society with a lease for twenty-one years of a convenient building, in or near Kinloch court, and prepared it for the library at his own expense; and the library was removed there in the beginning of 1765, and continued until the fire of 1778. Mr. Carwithen died in the summer of 1770, and Will. Hort was appointed librarian; he resigned in a few months, and Thomas Powell was elected on the 4th February, 1771; after holding the office fourteen months he resigned, and Samuel Price succeeded in April, 1772; he continued in office until the end of 1778, and Fr. J. Fariau was elected in 1779, and again in 1780, and continued librarian until the summer of 1783. After the fire of 1778, temporary accommodations were procured for the library. In January, 1780, Will. H. Gibbes, esq., offered a part of his office; the remnants of the library, however, appear to have been cased up after this time, for, in April, 1783, a committee was appointed' to inquire for a proper room, that the books may be opened.' Mr. Dan. Cannon loaned the society a room in Queen street for a short time; but when Mr. John M'Call was elected librarian on the 1st.July, 1783, he removed the books to his office. In April, 1784, the intendant and wardens of the city offered the society a room in the Exchange, whither the books were removed. In October, 1787, the council required their room, and the library was placed at the corner of Broad street and the bay. In January, 1788, it was removed to the corner of Tradd street and the bay. In January, 1791, it was again removed to the corner of Broad and Church streets, and in November, 1792, finally placed in the room it now occupies in the upper story of the court-house. 1" When the court-house was rebuilt by subscription, after having been burnt in 1788, the members of the Library Society subscribed very liberally, and promoted the subscription with their influence, with an understanding that their books would be permitted to occupy some portion *" C It deserves to be noticed that-the individual to whom this society has been most frequently and perhaps most extensively indebted, is an inhabitant of Paris. Passing some time in Carolina with his father, many years ago, they received from some of its inhabitants those hospitable attentions which the citizens of this country take so much pleasure in paying to strangers, and the courtesy has never been forgotten. Scarcely a year for some time past has elapsed without our receiving from him some volume or work as a testimonial of his remembrance. I allude to Andre Michaux, the younger, the author of the splendid work on the Forest Trees of North America."' [ 20] 154 of the building-and in this arrangement there has been hitherto a liberal acquiescence." Apprentices' Library-S-8500 vols.-The society was incorporated 18th Idecember, 1824, and rechartered in December, 1840. The library was first opened June 1, 1824. It now contains about 8,500 volumes; about 50 maps and charts, and six portraits of gentlemen distinguished in the Revolution; also a philosophical apparatus, worth about 500 dollars, and a pair of globes of three feet diameter, and new. The average annual increase is about 500 volumes. The average annual expenditure for books is about $150. A brick building with a tin roof was erected for the institution in 1840, at a cost of $14,500. It is 78 feet long, 34 feet wide, and two stories high. The upper story is occupied solely as a lectureroom. The lower story contains a library 37 feet by 29, and two readingrooms, each 23 feet by 12. A catalogue (336 pages small 8vo.) was printed in 1840. The library is open every day (except Sundays) from 4 o'clock p. m. till 9 in winter, and 10 in summer. Books are lent to members of the society, their families, and apprentices, and to other young persons recommended by members as beneficiaries. Each member pays one dollar for admission, and two dollars and fifty cents per annum in advance. About 800 or 900 books, and sets of books, are taken out annually; or, on a daily average, about 22 books to about 18 applicants. All. strangers are welcomed to the use of the books at the library. Besides these, eight or ten residents resort to it daily as a reading-room. "The old books, and those not often consulted, unless bound with Russia leather, are apt to be injured by insects. They may be saved by taking them out every week or two and striking the backs together, also by clippings of Russia leather scattered about on the shelves." William Estell, secretary, treasurer, and librarian. The Library of the College of Charleston-2,000 vols.-In the year 1785, three colleges-one at Charleston, another at Winnsborough, and a third at Cambridge-received a common charter from the legislature of South Carolina. In 1791 a separate charter was granted to the College of Charleston. This institution was reorganized on the 20th of December, 1837, at which time an act of the legislature was passed authorizing the transfer of all the college property to the city council of Charleston. The city council is bound to maintain the college. The library was commenced about 40 years ago. In the year 1S25, a considerable donation of valuable books was made by the citizens of Charleston. The library contains at present about 2,000 volumes. "A Catalogue of the books in the Library of the Charleston College," containing 36 pages 12mo., was pKinted at Charleston in 1849. William Pe. ronneau Finley, president of Charleston College. The Medical College of the State of South Garolina-2, 450 vols.-The library of the Medical Society contains 2,450 volumes. About 120 dollars are yearly expended for books. The library occupies a room, say 22 by 18 feet, in the Medical College. A catalogue was printed in 1834, and another, containing 40 pages 8vo., in 1842. The library is open four times a week for two hours, and is freely accessible to members of the Miedical Society, and all others to whom they may grant permits. About 350 volumes are annually lent out; and about 250 persons each year consult the library without taking away books. Dr. S. L. Lockwood, librarian. 155 [ 120 COLUMBIA. South Carolina College Libraries-18,400vols.-In 1802, there was an act of the legislature to purchase books for the college library. The collection at present contains above 17,000 volumes, including an unusually large proportion of elegantly illustrated works. Its annual increase is about 500 volumes. There is an annual appropriation by the legislature of $2,000 for the library. A brick building was erected in 1838, for the use of the library, at a cost of $22,000. There are two rooms on the sides of the passage in the lower story. The library room is 100 feet by 40, and is modelled after the Congress Library. An architect was sent to Washington to copy the plan. A catalogue was printed in 1836, of 112 pp. 8vo., prepared by Edward W. Johnston. Another, 151 pp. Svo., was published in 1849. It is intended merely for temporary use, whilst a more perfect one is in preparation. The library is open every day in the week, except Sunday, from 9 o'clock till one. Persons entitled to the use of the! books are the trustees, faculty, and students; all who present $100 worth of books, and others who have a special permission from the trustees. Any gentleman can get a book by using the name of a trustee or professor. F. W. McMaster, librarian. Students' societiesClasiosophic Society Library - - 700 volumes. Euphradian Society Library - -700 7 The college library is one of the best selected in the country. The learned aid of Profbssor Lieber has been bestowed upon it.'the collection is far more valuable than many of twice its size. The legislature of South Carolina has abundant reason to be proud of its liberality, and satisfied with the manner in which it has been seconded by the officers of the college. Theological Seminary of the Synod of South Carolina and Georgia4,754 vols.-This institution was established by the Presbyterians in 1828, went into operation in 1831, was incorporated in 1832. The library was commenced in 1830, and contains 4,554 volumes. Most of the books have been presented by individuals; yet, for the whole time since the library was commenced, the average annual expenditure for books has been $243. The library is temporarily placed in a lofty room, 25 feet by 20, in one of the buildings of the seminary, and is open four or five times a week, one hour each time. There is no printed catalogue. The officers and students of the seminary, and, by courtesy, clergymen of the town, are allowed the use of the books. About 1,300 volumes a year are lent outL In answer to the question,'"Have the books been injured at any time by insects?" the librarian writes: " Much injured by a small shiny moth, which eats off the pasted titles of clothbound books, and sometimes by a blackish worm of the caterpillar kind, the product of a brown miller or moth, which eats leather binding. It is also found that, in this climate, except in the driest situations, and occasionally even in these, leather-bound books suffer much from mould-English leather-bound books less than American, and French perhaps less than English. One gentleman amongst us has suffered so much from this cause, that he will only have books bound in cloth; and these, if the letters are stamped on the back, without being on a title which is pasted, are injured less by mould and insects than any other." lo20 ] 156 The " Society of fnquiry," composed of students of the seminary, possesses about 200 volumes. It maintains also a reading-room, in which the principal newspapers and reviews of this country are taken, as well as the reviews of Great Britain, and one or two German publications. This room is accessible at all hours. There is also under the control of this society a museum, containing articles illustrative of the natural history and superstitious usages of heathen nations. Rev. George Howe, D. D., librarian of the seminary. FAIRFIELD DISTRICT. Furman Theological Seminary Library- 1,500 vols.-This is a Baptist institution, established in 1826. GREENWOOD, ABBEVILLE DISTRICT. Hodges Institute —500 vols.-The Sopronean Society of this institution possesses about 300 volumes. There is, besides, a reference library of 200 volumes. The institute was incorporated in 1848. It is the design of the trustees to make the institution one of the first order. Issachar Howard, librarian. LEXINGTON COURT-HOUSE. Theological Seminary of the Evangelical Lutheran Cliurch-1,560 vols.-The library, founded in 1833, contains 1,560 volumes, besides many pamphlets. The library is kept at present in the house where the lectures are given, and occupies a room 25 feet long and 10 feet wide. It is hoped that better accommodations will soon be obtained. There is a written catalogue, somewhat in arrears. The library is open for taking out and returning books every Wednesday from 8 to 12 o'clock, The library is intended for the use of the students of the seminary and the ministers of the Lutheran church. Others may be admitted to its privileges on application to the professor of theology, who has the superintendence of the library-Professor Ernest W. Hazelius, D. D., Librarian. G E O R G I A. ATHENS. Franklin College Libraries-10,267 vols.-The present college library was commenced in 1831, the former one having been destroyed by fire in October, 1830. It contains 7,267 volumes, 59 maps and charts, a medal struck in commemoration of the victory at Saratoga, 3 gold, 94 silver, and 249 copper coins, ancient and modern. The yearly average increase for the last ten years has been about 132 volumes. The annual expenditure for books, during the same period, about $600. The income of the library is derived from appropriations by the trustees of the college. In 1835, a brick building was erected for the accommodation of the library and miseralogical cabinet, at a cost of $3,000. It is 50 feet long and 40 feet wide, measuring from the outside of the walls. It is two stories high, with two rooms on each floor. The books are arranged according to subjects. A 157 [ 120] catalogue was published about twelve years ago. Another was printed in 1847, entitled " Catalogue of Books in the Library of the University of Georgia, by Professor James Jackson, librarian; published by order of the board of trustees: Athens, 1847:9' small 12mo., 69 pages. The titles are distributed under twenty-eight classes, corresponding with the arrangement of the books upon the shelves. The library is opened four times a week-Monday to Thursday, inclusive-and is kept open from half an houlr to an hour each time. The trustees, faculty, resident and undergraduates are allowed the free use of the books. Under-graduates are required to return or renew them every two weeks. Literary gentlemen and ministers of the gospel in the place are, on the responsibility of the faculty, admitted to the privileges of the library. The trustees and faculty alone are allowed to take books out of the town. Professor James Jackson, librarian. The Libraries of tile Franklin Society and of the Phi Gamma Society contain 3,000 volumes. AUGUSTA o Library of the MedicaZ Collefge of Georgia-4,000 vols.-This library, founded in 1833, contains 4,000 volumes. The average yearly increase is about 150 volumes. The expenditure for books, $200. The library occupies a room in the college building 25 feet by 35, and is opened daily during the forenoon. The faculty are allowed the use of the books by having the work taken out charged to the borrower; the students, by depositing $10 as security for the return of each volume. L. A. Dugas, M. D., librarian. The Young Mfen's Library —1,510 vols.-The Young Men's Library Association was founded 27th January, 1848. It expends about -200 a year in the purchase of books. The society rents two rooms, each 40 feet by 20, in a brick building-one for the library, and the other for a reading-room. The library is open daily (Sundays excepted) from S to 10 a. im., and from 3 to 10 p. nm. Persons become life members by paying $50. Regular members pay $4 a year. Members are allowed to introduce strangers to the use of the library for two weeks. The library at present contains about 1,510 volumes. Thomas Courtney, librarian. MACON. TVesleyan Female College Library —350 vols.-The college was incorporated in November, 1837, and opened for students in January, 1839. The library was commenced with the college, and now (January, 1850) contains about 350 volumes, a few valuable ancient coins, a respectable cabinet of minerals, and a few antiquities, mostly the fruit of private donations. The library occupies a room in the college edifice, and is accessible at all hours of every day. The use of the books is free to the officers and pupils of the school. MILLEDGEVILLE. Oglthoiorpe University Libraries —4,000 vols. —The college library was founded with the college, in 1838. It contains about 2,000 volumes, 120eo ] 158 mostly donations, and occupies a large and airy room in the college edifice. It is opened twice a week —one hour each time. The laws allow of the books being lent, within a mile of the college, at the discretion of the president. Persons connected with the college may use them without fee. The two literary societies (the Thalian and tile Phi Delta) have wellselected libraries of 1,000 volumes each. OXFORD. Emnzory ollege-2,700 vols.-The college library, founded in 1S39, contains 1,020 volumes, increasing by donations alone. It occupies a roorm 20 feet square in the college building. There is no printed catalogule. The library is opened four days each week, half an hour at a time. Pro. fessors and students are allowed to use the books without charge. About 250 volumes are taken odt each year. There are two societies of students.having libraries. The Pew Society has 725 volumes; the Phii Gamma'Society, 960 volumes. Rev. J. M. Bonnell, librarian. PENNFLELD. Mercer Uniiversity-4,000 vols. —'he library was commenced when the college was chartered in 1835, and now contains 3,000 volumes. The available funds of the college have hitherto been devoted mainly to the purchase of apparatus and the erection of buildings, whilst the library has remained nearly stationary. It is, however, expected soon to receive more attention. There are two other small but annually-increasing libraries connected with the college. S. P. Sanford, librarian. Tie Baptist Theological Seminary is connected with the university. SAVANNAH. Historical Society Library and Savannah Society L;brary-7,000 vols.The Georgia Historical Society was founded in June, 1839, and incorporated the 19th of December of the same year, It has published several volumes of Collections. The legislature confided to the care of the society the invaluable documents obtained in England by the Rev. Charles W. Howard, at a large expense to the State. "These are comprised in 22 volumes folio.'ifteen are fromn the records of the Board of Trade, six from the State Paper office, and one from the King's Library; forming a body of historical information full of the most interesting statements, letters, and reports relating to the colonial period of Georgia." The Savannah Society Library has been lately utiited with that of the Historical Society. They together contain about 7,000 volumes.-[See Account of the Georgia Historical Society, by W. B. Stevens, MI. DO American Quarterly Register, MIay, 1840, p. 344.]' This province [Georgia] was scarce thirty years settled before it had three fine libraries in the city of Savannah, the fourth at Ebenezer, and a fifth 961 miles from the sea, upon the stream of Savannah. In these libraries could be had books written in the Chaldaic, Hebrew, Arabic, Siriac, Coptic, Malabar, Greek, Latin, French, German, Dutch, and Spanish, besides the English, viz: in thirteen languages. " —[De Brahm's Georgia, privately,printed by G. W. Jones, of Georgia, in 1849, from an old IS. in Harvard University Library.] 159 120] ALABAMA. LA GRANGE. College Library-3,000 vols. MARIO1N. Howard College.-The libranry, founded in 1842, contains 1,500 vols. It is opened once a week for half an hour. S. S. Sherman, president. This is a literary and theological institution, and the library is conse. quently designed to be literary and theological. MOBILE. TThe Pranklin Societzq, founded 17th January, 1835. The library contains 1,454 volumes, with a few coins and maps. Of late years but few additions have been made to the library, the attention of the society having been mostly turned to maintaining a reading room. The Franklin Society and the societies of Free Masons have erected a brick building for their joint accommodation. The room of the Franklin Society is a parallelogram, 62 feet by 32. The library and reading-room are open daily for the use of metalbers of the society and subscribers to the readingroom. The books are used in the room. P. Hamnilton, president. SPRING HILL. College Library —4,000 vols. TUS CIJ A. 3 Tlhe Literary and Scientifi Cl'ub, formed in 1849, meet weekly to dis. cuss questions and submit essays, some of which have already been published. A fund is accumulating gradually for the purchase of books. The secretary is G. M. Wharton. TUSCALOOSA, The University of Alabamia —7123 vols.-The library was founded in 1831, and contains 4,500 volumes. The yearly average increase, for the last ten years, has been 159 volurnes. There is a stated annual appropriation of $200 for the library. Within the last five years the trustees have made two extra appropriations of $50)0 each. The library is in the " Rotundo,"' which is occupied, besides, as a chapel, and for public exhibitions. The library room is a large circular apartment, 85 feet in diameter.'The whole building cost $75,000. The foundation, to about four feet above the surface, is of sandstone; the residue of brick. The, first printed catalogue-a pamphlet —was published in 1838o The last-a volume of 257 pages Svo. —was printed in 1848. The library is opened twice a week, and kept open about an hour each time. The trustees, faculty, resident graduates, students, and donors to the amount of $100 to the library, are entitled to the use of it, and mny [120' 160 take out books. About 800 volumes are lent annually. Robert S. Gould,. librarian. The two students' libraries contain 2,6:3 volumes. The first catalogue of the library was prepared by Mr. Richard Furman. It was classified. The second was prepared by Mr. Wilson G. Richardson, M. A., now professor in the university. It is on the plan of the catalogue of Brown University Library. This elegant catalogue is highly reditable to the institution, and honorable to the industry, taste, and earning of the gentleman who prepared it. A few such publications will establish a high standard of excellence for the catalogues of even small libraries, and will demonstrate their value. "A catalogue," says Mr. Van der Weyer, " is like the eye of a library." Let the eye, therefore, be perfect, that the whole body may be full of light. F LORI DA. PENSACOLA. The Naval Hospital.-The library of the Naval Hospital was founded January 16, 1847, and contains at present 1,337 volumes, besides pamphlets. The library has been raised by voluntary subscriptions of the inmates of the hospital, and of benevolent individuals, officers of the navy, &c. Mr. Secretary Mason directed $150 to be given from the Naval Hospital fund. A considerable number of donations have been received. The library room is in the hospital, and measures 27 feet by 24, and 17 feet high. It is open from morning to evening every day. Any inmate of the hospital may take out one book at a time. The library is the property of the hospital, and is under the direction of the surgeon in charge. The present incumbent is Isaac Hulse, M. D., U. S. Navy. The steward of the hospital, Mr. G. L. Brown, is acting librarian. ST. AUGCSTINE. Judicial Library-2,000 vols. TALLAIHAS SEE. State Library.-The State Library was founded in 1845, and contains 2,000 volumes. The use of the library in the room is free to all persons. The library is under the care of the Secretary of State, Charles W. Downing. MI S SISS P P I. JACKSON. State Library-5,000 vols.-Founded by act of legislature, passed February 15, 1.838, appropriating $3,000 for the purchase of suitable books. Previous to 1842 there was an annual appropriation of $1,000 for the purchase of books; since then the appropriation has been $500 — one fifth of which is for law books. The library is on the third floor of the State capitol. "A Catalogue of the Library of the State of Mississippi, arranged alphabetically, under different heads, with the number, 611. [- 120 ] size) and cost: of- the. volumes of: each work specified, to which are prefixed the rules; and regulations;provided for its government,:" 27pages 8vo., wasprinted-at Jackson:in 1.839:; the same, with: additions, 34 pages 8vo., 1841; same, $1845a 43 pages 8vo.; same,'61 pages S8vo., 1847; same): 51 pages 8vo.,- 1849. The price of each book is given- in every catalogue, and forms a novel but interesting feature. The library is opened every day during the session of the legislature, Sundays ex. cepted, from 9 a. m. to 3 p. m. All persons are allowed to use the library wlen open, but no one is allowed to take out books but the trustees, State treasurer, adjutant general, judges of the United States circuit court, and members of the legislature while in session. Persons who have filled the office of governor of the State, chancellor, judge of the high court of errors and appeals, United States senator from the State, whilst they may be in the city of Jackson, are allowed to borrow books. For every book issued, a receipt or note of twice its value, or twice the value of the set to which it may belong, must be given, conditioned on its safe return, and the payment of all. forfeitures and penalties for detention:beyond the time limited by the laws. John W. Patton, librarian. CLAIBORNE C OUNTY~,.Oakland College-6,000 vols,-The college library, founded in 1.831, contaihs. 3,589 vol6umes, 200 maps and charts, 800 enaygravings and 200 mnedals and coins. In.1841, $3,000 were appropriated for books,.but the library ihas been increased principally by donations. An apartment in the iollege chapel, (a brick building,) 26'feet by 22, and 14 feet high,. is used for the library.'he books' are arranged according to donors. TIle library is opened once a week for an hour, and frequen:tly at other times. Books are lent to, all who'apply for them: few, however, are taken out except by the officers and! students of the college. Pro essor John'Cham berlain, librarian. The students' libraries contain 2,411 volumes. OXFORD, LAFAYETTE COUNTYo The tUniversity of lississippi, near Oxford, went into operation in, Noveinber, 1848. Its library contains about 1,600 volumes. The State has made' an appropriation of $3,000 a year for books and apparatus. The college has an income of $16,000 per year: seven professors and& eighty students, WASHMNGTON* College Library-1,000 rols. LO U I S I:NA.. BATON ROUGE. State Lt rary —r7,000) vols. —The -State Library was founded the 12th of MSarch, 1838, and contains about T)000 volumes, some MSS,. maps, engravings,, &C. The library has lately been removed to Baton Rogue and placed in a room in the capitol. A correct description and inventory: of it. Mis.-11 [120.] 162 will soon be'prepared. As yet, there is no printed catalogue. The aver: age annual increase is about 300 volumes. Anr annual appropriationi of $1,000 is made by the State legislature for the increase of the cpllection, The library is open daily from 10 a. m. to 3 p. m. Admittance is free to all persons, but no book is to be taken away except by members of the legislature during their sessions. Paul Caire, librarian. College Libraries-1,000 volumes. BRINGIE R S. Jefferson College Libraries-6,000 vols. JACKSON. Louisiana College Librarihs —2,000 vols. NEW ORLEANS. Public School Library —10,000 vols. —'"The Public School Library and Lyceum Society of Municipality No. 2" was founded December 3; 1844. The library contains [1850] 10,000 well-selected volumes. It has also two books of paintings, and five books of sketches. It is supported by subscriptions, donations, and voluntary contributions of the pupils of the public schools, and is fast increasing. An elegant room, 75 feet by 35, and 20 feet high, has been recently provided for the permanent accommodation of the library, in the new 2d Municipal Hall. The exact cost of this room is not perhaps known; the cost of the entire building is estimated at $300,000. There have been two printed catalogues: the first, numbering 29 pages, was published in 1846; the second, 155 pages, in 1848. The library is open daily (Sundays excepted) from 2 to 8 o'clock p. m. Subscribers pay $5 per annum. Pupils of the public schools may become life members by paying $9. The teachers of the public schools are entitled to the privileges of the library without charge. The librarian is Samuel H. McConnell. TEXAS. AUSTIN. The State Library.-The collection of books usually styled the State Library was commenced in 1837, and has been derived from donations. It numbers at present 1,001 volumes. The average annual increase is about S0 volumes. Tkne books are kept in the building of the State department, and are accessible to the public, without charge, during business hours, every day. About 300 are annually taken out, and perhaps 300 or 400 persons annually consult the collection without borrowing books. The library is in charge of the secretary of state, who is considered ex officio librarian. HUNTSVILLE. Austin College, incorporated in 1850;, is in vigorous progress, and colleoting a library. 163 [1 le ] INDEPENDENCE Baylor Utiversity Library — 300 vols. ARKANSAS. LITTLE ROCK. Lyceum Library-1,000 vols. TENNESS:EE. COLUMBIA. jackso, Cofllege Libraries-2,500 vols.-The college library was begun in 1834, and contains about 2,000 volumes. About 400 volumes have been added during the last ten years. There is a manuscript: cata, Vogue. The library is opened once a week for an hour. Students pay 59( cents per session for the ouse of the books. Rev. Joseph Sherman, LL. D., librarian. Students' libraries, 500 vols. The Female Institute Library 3,500 vols.-Established February, 1839-contains 3,50() volumes, and the richest collection of engravings in the State. About 350 volumes per year are added to the library. About $;50 are annually expended for the purchase of books. There is a manuscript catalogue. The library is opened one hour each day. Members of the institute pay $1 per annum for the use of the books. Books are not taken from the institute except by day pupils. F. G. Smith, rector. GREENVILLE. College Libraries-'3,000 vols, JACKSON. - West'Tennessee College was incorporated in 1843, and reorganized in 1849. It has four teachers and ninety-two students. It has begun to collect a libraryKNOXVILLE. East Tennessee University-4,5r00 vols.-The college library, founded in 1819, contains 2,300 volumes. It is supported by fees for the use of the books, with occasional appropriations from the fiunds of the university. It occupies a room 20 feet square and 14 feet high, in the main building of the university, which is of brick. The library is open regularly once a week, and, on application, at other times. Officers of the university are allowed to use the books without charge; students pay $1 a year for the privilege. About 15,0 books are lent out in a year; and about 240 persons consult the library without taking away books. There are two: literary societies connected with the college, (the Chi-Delta and thePhilomathesian,) which have each about 1,100 volumes, in rooms belonging to [ 20 3-16 the university, connected with the. society halls. These libraries have been founded but a few years, are rapidly' increasing and much used. Albert Miller Lea, librarian E. T. University. LEBANON. Cumberland University Library-4,000 vols.-The library, commeneed in 1844, the date of the charter of the university, contains some 4,000 volumes. William Mariner, librarian. MARYVILLE. College Libraries-3,700 vols.- This institution was founded in 1S21, and was called the " Southern and Western Theological Seminary." A. charter was obtained from the legislature in 1842, and the name of the institution cha/nged to " Maryville College." The library, commenced in 1821, contains 3,200 bound volumes, and about 500 pamphlets. The increase has been v:ery slow, not more than 25 volumes per year. The liixary is in a roomn 20 feet by 12, in the secor d story of a brick building belonging to the college. It is opened whenever application is made for books. Students of the college, and persons in and near the town, pay $1I a year for the use of the books. Clergymen educated at the college, arid residing within' one hundred miles, are allowed the use of the books without charge. The q' Beth-Hacma Society" of students has 125 vols. The'",Beth —Hacma-ve.Berith"' Society has 375 vols. John S. Craig, librarian of the college.. DMURFREES3 OROUJGH. Union University Library. —500 vols. NASHVILLE. State Library-8,000 vols.-The State Library has no legal existence or distinct name, but is merely the depository, under the',are of the secretary of state, of books and charts which have been accumulating ever spt-ce the foundation of the State. It contains now about 8,0t() volumes, mostly reports, public documents, and books presented. l'here is no appropriation foi its increase. A large and elegant room, 36 feet square and about the same in height, in the new capitol, will be assigned to the library. The library is now opened daily fiom morning to evening, (Sundays. exceptecd.) It is accessible to all - persons, and books are freely lent to..ai, w.lo app1y:for them W. B. A. Ramsey, secretary of state. hNviile, UUn verts: Librqries-9,456 vols.-";Davidson Academy" was incorporated by te General, Assembly of Noirth Carolina 29th:Decemeir, 1785. Its name, property, and rights were merged in "'Cim. berla.cd Cqllege,',' -incorporated.:by the legislatpre of Tennessee, 1 th Scpienber, 18M6. The legal,.style.and title of this college was changed to'"T'he U~:;ersty; of Nashvill'e by an act of the legisla.ture, 27th Ngovel.)er, 18'6. -The. library, was founded- in 1824, and co-ntains (184.9)' 3,144 volumme, and a few AMsS. Du.ring the: last four years the sum of $1_,216 75 165 [ 120,''] has been paid'for books. There is a catalogue in manuscript, but'nolie printed. Professor rN.'Cross is librarian. There are two society libraries, namely: the Agatheridan, with 3,576 -volumes, and the Erosophian, with 2,736 volumes; making with the colb'lege library a total of 9,456 volumes depo'sited in the college building, and which may be consulted or borrowed by any member of the university; also by others On certain easy conditions. Thie president, Philip Iindsley, D.D.,' and Professor Troost, have private'libraries, containitng 7,000 or 8,000 volumles. The three public libraries are said to contain i"many rare books in various languages; and very few that are;not useful."' Pranklln CGollege, (near Nashvilie,)-2,tOO vols.-The college library,.commenced in 1844, contains 1,200 volumes, and increases about 100 a year. The expenditure for books and collections in natural history is about $200 per annum. The library is opened twice a week for one hour. The members of the faculty have friee-use of the library, and the students pay $2 per annum. Perhaps 1,000 persons visit the library in a year. There are two societies of students, the Euphronian and the Apollonian, v with libraries containing together about 900'volumes. WASHINGTON'' COUNTY. Washinglton College Library-1`000 vols. K EN T U C'KR Y AUGUSTA. College Libraries-2,500 vols. BARDSTOWN. St. Joheph's College -S3,000 vols. The college library was founded in 1824, when the college was incorporated by the legislature of Ken. tucky'Before August, 1848, the library contained about 6,000 volumes. At that time the board of trustees divided the'library between this and several other institutions which they directed, leaving to St. Joseph's Col. lege about 500 volumes of theological, historical, and literary works, with a set of congressional documents. A new board of trustees, at present, controls the affairs of the institution, and they are determined to form a permanent and valuable library. It already numbers about 2,000 volumes. It: has also about 400 medals of the 1Sth, 16th, 17th, andI 18th centuries, and about"200 modern coins. The expenditure for books:from the general funds of the college is about $250 a year. The principal reliance for the increase of the collection is upon donations.. The library occupies a room 24 feet by 15, and 13 feet high, in the college building. The books are arranged according to subjects-each subject having one or more panels. There is no printed catalogue. The library is opened every day twice, to allow the professors opportunity for consultation-three-quarters of an hour in the morning and one hour in the afternoon. Books'are freely lent to persons connected with the college, and, by permission of the superintendent, to others residing in the immediate vicinity. There are two societies of students possessing Viseful libraries; the '[1"!-20'] 166 Eurodelphian (or English) Society has, a collection of works in English' literature, and the Eucerophradic (French) Society possesses a library of French books. Rev. John Roes, S..f J., librarian. C OVIGTON. Library of the Westerni Baptist Theological Institute-2,000 vols. — The library was founded in 1845, and contains about 2,9()O volumes. One thousand dollars a year is hereafter to be appropriated from the genera] funds of the institution for the increase of the collection. The librasry is opened on Tuesday aind: Friday of each week from S to 9 o'cloclc a. ni. All members of the institute anld ministers of the gospetin the city are entitled to the use of the library. Rev. Prof.- A, Druiry, librarian, DAN VILLE,-E Centre CGollege —5,050 vols. —The college libray, begutn in 1S24 contains 1,850 volumes. The endowment of the college is nearly completed to $100,000. After it reaches that point, systematic eifbrts will be' made for raising a large library fund. There are two libraries belonging to societies of students-the Deinolbgian (1,600 volumes) and the Chamberlain (1,600 volumes.) John C.. Youngpresident Centre College. FRANKiFORT6. State Litbrary —9,0CO ols. —Founded in 1834, and' contains about 8,000 or 9,000 volumes, mostly law books and public documents. There are not more than 200 volumes of miscellaneous works.. Inr 1840, the legislature appropriated $3,000 for law books for the courts and the legislature. The library is kept in a room, 50 feet by 20', in the State-house. A catalogue is in preparation and will soon be published. The library is opened daily during the sessions of the courts and legislature. Officers of the State government, members of the legislature, and lawyers attending the courts in Fralnkfort, are allowed the use of the books. The books are not lent out to others. R. D. Harlan, librarian. GEORGETOWN. Georgetown College Libraries-7,280 vols.-The library was founded ini 1837, and contains 6,500 volumes, comprising many costly works ic philology and theology, but chiefly scientific and historical books, a few manuscript journals of early settlers of Kentucky, and many maps and charts. It has also 64 miedals and 676 coins, comprising those of Burmah, Siam, Hindostan, the East India Company, South America, Dutch East Indies, &c. The average annual increase is about 500 volumes. The late additions of 800'volumes have been obtained by the president as donations, as-have'also all the coins, medals, and other articles, as idols, statues, &c. There is a charge of $1 per annum on each student for keeping the books~ in repair.'The library is in a room of the main building of' the college, 4 feet by 32, with lofty ceiling. The coins, medals, pictures, &c., are kept in a room devoted to the purpose, on the same floor as the library. The books are arranged on the shelves accord 167 [ 120] ing to subjects, under twenty divisions. A catalogue raisonni was printed in -, containing 76 pages 12mo. The' library is open twice a week, half an hour each time. All persons connected with the college are al. lowed the use of the books; undergraduates are taxed $1 each per annuni for the privilege..By permission of the president, books may be taken out by citizens. No application has ever been refused. Prof. I)anford Thomas, l ibrarian. Two voluntary societies of students are attached to the college-each having a convenient hall and a library. The two libraries contain 780 volumes. The Female Collegiate In7stitute-organized 1838-" has a select library:of 500 volumnes.".HARRODSBURG. Bacon College. —The college possesses about 1,800 volumes, accessible to all persons, but no regularly organized library. LEXINGfTON. Transylvania University-14,000 vols. The college library, founded in 179J, contains; about 12,000 volumes, in three library rooms in the three departments of the university, under the control of the faculties of arts, law, and medicine. Several catalogues have been published, but none: of recent date. H. B. Bascom, president T. U. Thestudents' libraries contain 2,000 volumes. LOUISVILLE. Th/e Louisville Library-3,500 vols. -was chartered as the'"Mercantile Library Association." Two years ago it; was reorganized and received the name of the Louisville Library. The library contains 3,500 volumes. The stockholders of the library are about to erect, on the courthouse square, a handsome building of stone and brick, 60 feet by 30,; to cost $5,000, for the joint accommodation of this library, that of the Kentucky Historical Society, and that of -the Louisville Law School; which, united, will form about 6,000 volumes. The room for the Louisville library will be 60 feet by 30, and 25 feet high, fitted up with alcoves and galleries. A catalogue was printed about 10 years ago, and reprinted in 1848. The library will be open every day and evening till 10 o'clock. Stockholders and subscribers alone aireentitled to take out books.:WilliamJ ohnston, librarian. Kentucley Historical Society I —000 -vols.-This society was organized March 1838, and has a library of 1,500 volumes. [Se?'Louisville Library.] Louisville Law SchIool has a library of about 1,000 volumes.. [See Louisville. Library.] Medical Department of the University of Louisville —1,000 vols.- "The library is enlarged from year to year by the purchase, not only of new medical works,:but of costly books pertaining to the allied sciences. Handsome additions have lately been, made to it, and other purchases:will be made in the course of the coming vacation. " —[Annual catalogue. 1849-'50.] [120]3 18 MAaRION COUNTY. St. Mal y's College Tibrary-5,000- vols. PRINCETON, CALDWELL COUNTY. Cumberland College (near Printceton) —1,210 vols.-The college library was fo'unded; in 1825 -'6. It contains about 1,000 volumes. Exertions are now making for its enlargement.:A new room, 30 feet by 18, has lately been fitted Lup for its accommodation. There are in connexion with the college two'literary; societies: the "'Erodelpliian,"'' organized in 1842, reorganized in 1847. It has a large hall, 30 feet by 18, well, carpeted and furnished, and a library of 160 volumes. Number of members 22. The other is the "Amicitiae-Societas," constituted April 28, IS49, with 8 members. It has a large hall well fitted up, and about 150 volunes. Richard Beard, president of Cumberland College., SHELBYVILLE. Shelby College Libraries —4,000 vols.-"An extensive theological and classical libralry is attached to the college;,Which will be accessible to such students as; may choose to- enjoy its advantages.: The number of volumes,amounts to about 4,000.. A reading-room is connected with the library, which is furnished with the leading American and English reviews and other periodical publications.". "Two 4literary societies exist among the students: one-chartered in 1848, under thne of Phi-,Mu —has some 25 members, a small but well-selected library, and receives regularly the pricipal reviews, English and American, assoon as published. The other, auxiliary to this, is for the benefit of the younger portion of the students. Both are making strenuous exertions to i'ncrease their libiraries and other means of intellectual improvement. Any aid the' public may see fi:t to afford will be thankfully acknowledged. Convenient rooms will be provided, and handsomely fitted up, during the coming session of 1849-'50, in the new building.:" [College catalogue, 1849.1 OHIO. ATHENS. The University of Ohio-2,750 vols.-The college library was founded i:n- 1804, and contains 1,250: volumes. A catalogue was printed in 1828, containing 12 pages. The library is opened once a week for an hour. All connected with the university may use it without charge. The institution has lately been reorganized, after a suspension of three years on account of debt. Professor William J. Hoge, librarian. Students' libraries, 1,500 volumes. BLENDON FRANKLIN COUNTY. CCentral College Library-550 vols. —The library was commenced in 1843, and contains 550 volumes. It is open one afternoon in two weeks. The faculty and trustees are entitled to use the books without -charge, The students pay a small fee. J. S. Henderson, librarian. 169 [ 120 iJ The YOUn~g Mfen's Mercantile Library.Associations-10,00 0 vols.-The association was formed in 1835, and incorporated January:S, 1836. It posseses a:library of 9,767-volumes, a few maps, globes, portraits, engravings, &c., &c. In-July, 1846, at which time the library was removed to its:present location, it nunibered 4,000 volumes. The rate of increase, fbr several years, had been about 700 volumes per year. For the last two years. 2,600 volumes a vear have been added. The annual appropriation for books, for the: last two years, -has been 2,500: dollars a year. Provious to that, it had been about $800 per annum. The funds for the increase of the library are derived fromn the annual su'bscriptions, which amounrt to say $5,000, from.which current expenses are to be deducted and,a readirng-room sustained&.'In 1846 a'building was erected at the joint expense of the Cincinnati College -and the' Library Association. It cost $36,000, of which the Association owns $10,000. The style of the edifice is Grecian. Dimensions-front, 140- feet; depth, 100 feet; height, (four stories) 58 feet. The construction is: of the most permanent char-'acter, of -Dayton limestone, the roof covered, with- iron. The rooms of -the Library Association fornl the entire front of the: second story. Library 29 feet by 45; reading-room, 29 by -45; directors' room, 16 by 14, with a room for. stowing:away newvspapers, &cG.; and a room -now occupied as the Merchants' Exchange, 59 feet by 45, intended here:after:for the library. rThe "Catalogue of the Young Men's-Library Associationin Cincinnati," printed at Cincinnati' in 1846, contains 145 -pages 8vo. The "Supple. mentary Catalogue,"' &c.,`was printed in 1848, and paged continuously *with the catalogue, the two t foarmin g' 260'pages 8vo. The catalogue is alphabetical, with a classified index; is very' well prepared, and- handsornely printed. An earliercatalogLue was printed in 1844, 62 pages 8vo. T'lhe library is open daily (Sundays. and holidays' excepted) fro 9 a.m. till 10 p. m. The library is for the use. of the members, of the association and others, at the discretion of the board of directors. Members pay $1 initiation fee, and the further sum of $3: as an annual subscription. About 15,000 books are lent out each year; and about 2,000 books are consulted, by about 100 different persons, in a year, without taking them away from the library. The present librarian is Thomas Gales Foster. Besides the library, this institution maintains an annual course of lectures. The printed annual repor'ts of the board of directors show that the establishment is conducted with great energy and intelligence, and that it is eminently and' increasingly useful. Lane AS'eminary, at Walnut Hills, near Cincinnati.-This institution was incorporated in 1829, and commenced full operations in 1832. It is under the direction of the Presbyterians'. The library, founded in 1837, contains 10,000 volumes, 4 ancient manuscripts, and 33 volumes of engravings. It is: intended to appropriate $500 a year, from the funds of the seminary, for the increase of the library. There is a manuscript catalogue. The library is open twice a week, regularly. It is for the free use of the faculty and students. Other persons wishing to consult the library are always accommodated by the librarian. Professor C. E. Stowe, librarian. St. Xavier College, Libraries-5,600 vols.-The library was founded in November, 1841, and contains something over 5,000 volumes. It E1l20] 170 increases at the rate of about 400 volumes a year. The college having no endowment, nor any established fund, there is no permanent appropii-ation for the library, but only svuch as occasion justifies. The library is in a hall of the college building, 40 feet by 25. There is a manuscript catalogue. The library is open daily from 7 to 8 a. m., and from 4- to 6 p. m.; on Thursdays from 9 to 12. The use of the books is confined to those belonging to the college;:but by courtesy any literary, or other respectable person, may have access upon application. There are two societies of,students possessing libraries: the Philopedian has 300 wellselected books; and the Philhermenian, nearly the same number. Rev. J. De Bleeck, president. Thle Ohio Mechanics' Institute-3,265 vols. -The library was founded and incorporated in 1829, and contains 3,265 volumes. The institute possesses also a philosophical apparatus, said to be the best in the State. For the. last ten years the annual average increase has been about 200 volumes, and the expenditure for books about $100. The library is supplied principally by donations and occasional special subscriptions., The institute is erecting, by subscript;ion a building on the corner of Vin and 6th streets.,-It is of brick and iron. Estimated expense, $32,000. It will be finished in 1850...The outside dimensions are 90 feet on Vine street, 75 feet on:6th street. It has four stories, attic and basement. It is intended to lease about three-fourths of the building to;others. A catalogue, 48 pages 12mo.,, was printed in 1841. The library is open six days in the week from. sunrise till 10 o'clock pa. in.; S:undays} from sunrise: to sunset.- Members pay $3 per annum, ladies and minors 50 cents per annum, for the'use of the books.'rhe total number of volumes lent out from, September 1,:1848, to September 1849, was 5,069. Samuel Warner, actin: librarian.::.:: The Historical andPhilosophical Society of Ohio.-Founded February 11, 1831. The library contains about 1,000 volumes, and about 2,500 pages of historical manuscripts, in English and:French. All the books have been procured by donation.: The library is opened daily for four hours, and accessible: to all who; wish to consult it. Perhaps one hundred and fifty different persons a:year avail themselves. of its privileges. G. Williams Kendall, librarian. Apprentices' Libriary-2,200 vols. 7'he Medical College of O/tio.-The: library, founded in 1826, contains 2,129 volumes, 50 volumes of:engravings, and the manuscript theses on medical subjects -by the graduates. It occupies two. rooms.in the college edifice. The books are arranged in 9 chapters, viz:i 1, anatomy; 2, chiemistry; 3, surgery; 4, m-ateria, medica; 5, obstetrics; 6, theory and practice of medicine; 7, periodicals; 8, miscellaneous works; 9, engravings. A catalogue was printed in 1832, but:the library has been considerably enlarged since: that time. The library is open Mondays, Wednesdays,.and Fridays, from 1- to 5 o'clock p. m. It is for the use of the trustees, professors and students of the college. Alexander Denniston, librarian. ~Orphan Asylun.- Founded 1840: has 400 volumes. Miss Wood, librarian. Woodwiard College Libraries-i-,400 vols. 171 [ 120 ] CLEVELAND. T'he Western Reserve Medical College —1 000 vols. Cleveland University.-A tract of 275 acres of land has been pl:rchased for $34,000. It is expected that, after some 50 or 75 acres shall have been reserved for the college, the remainder will yield a handsome fund for the purposes of the college. It is proposed to erect one large edifice for public rooms. The students will lodge in private houses. Active measures are in operation to open the institution for students by 1st March, 1850. [Letter of A. Mahan, president, in New York Tribune, November 28, 1 5o.] COL-UMBUS. State Library-12,500 vols.-The State Library of Ohio was founded in 1817, and contains (1850) 12,500 volumes. It increases at the rate of about 500 volumes a year. The State publishes its own reports, the profits of which, amounting to about $S00 per annum,'are appropriated to the purchase of books for the library. The library is under the control of commissioners, consisting of the governor, secretary of state, and State librarian. The room occupied.by the library is 118 feet by 22. A catalogue is published every three years. The last, printed in 1848, contains 92 pages 8vo. The library is open daily, (Sundays excepted,) from 7 o'clock a. rn. to 6 p. m. in summer, and from 7 a. m. till 9 p. m. in winter. The library is free: to members of the legislature and officers of State, and it may be. used by others by consent of the library commissioners. The number of volumes lent annually is about 1,800. About 3,000 persons annually consult the library. John Greiner, State librarian. DELAWA RE. Ohio Wesleyan University-2,780 vols.-The college library was founded in 1845, and contains 2,000 volumes. It is open once a week for an hour. The students pay 50 cents a term for the use of the books. The faculty use them without fee. Professor McCabe, librarian. The Letagothian Society of Students, instituted 1845, has a library of 335 volumrnes, increasing about 100 vols. each year. It has also about 250 mineralogical specimens and curious coins. The Chrestomathian Society, instituted 1846, has 450 volumes; annual increase, 60 volumes. GAMB [ER.' Kenyon College Libraries-7,550 vols.-The library of this college is called the Library of the Theological Seminarv of the 1)iocese of Ohio. It was founded in 1S24, and contains about 4,550 volumes. The library is kept in the building of the 1Theological Seminary, and occupies a room 40 feet long, 18 feet wide,; and 12 feet high. A catalogue was printed in 1837, cor-taining 76:pages Svo. The library is open one lhour each week, and is free to the members of the college and seminary. Rev. M. T. C. Wing, librarian. The students' libraries contain 3,000 volumes. ['120] 172 GRANVILLE. College Libraries —3,000 vols. —The library, founded in 1836, contains 1,000 volumes. Open every Saturday for the use of the officers and students. Rev. Silas'Bailey, president. Students' libraries, 2,U000 volumes. HILLSB OROUGH'. 7The Library andMuseumr Association of Oakland Female Seminary.The association is composed of the pupils of the seminary and ladies in Hillsborough. It was formed in 1840. The library contains about 400 volumes, besides a collection of shells and minerals. About 40 volumes a year are added to the library. A catalogue (S pages) was printed in January, i848. Another will be- published soon. The library is open every school-day,: whenever the!pupils or others wish to exchange books. Pupils pay $lfor membership; other ladies, $2. About 3,000 volumes were taken out the last year, which is a greater numberrthan ever before. Nancy F. Parker, librarian. HUtDSON.,Western Reserve College-7,634 vols.-The college library was founded in 1826, and contains 4,555 volumes, exclusive of periodicals and pamphlets, -unbound, which amount torabout 200 volumes. ~ The average tannual increase for the last ten years has been 133 volumes, mostly donations. About $50 a year- have been appropriated for books. A brick:building: 62 feet by 42 w.as erected for:chapel and library. The library-room is 40 feet square. A catalogue (18 pp. 12mo.) was printed in -. The library is open each Saturday afternoon. The faculty use the books without charge. The students pay $1 50 per annum. About 1,000 books are lent out each year. There are two societies of students connected with the college possessing libraries, ontaining together 3,066 volumes. Professor HenryN. IDay, librarian. iMA'RIETTA. Marietta College Libraries-6,400 vols. —The college library was founded in 1835, when the present college charter was obtained. It now (1850) contains 4,300 volumes. Its average rate of increase has been of late about 120 volumes-annually. The library is open for one and a half hours every Saturday. The use of the books is free of charge to the trustees and faculty: the students pay $1 per year. A subscription has lately been opened for $10,000, and is nearly filled up, for the benefit of the library. It is proposed to dxpend about half of this sum immediately in the purchase of books, and to fund the other half. A brick building, 65 feet by 53, and three stories high', has just been completed. On the first floor are the laboratory, room for philosophical apparatus, and recitationroom for the senior class. On the second floor, the library, the cabinet, the Hildreth cabinet, and a rhetorical-room, used at present as a chapel. In the third story are two large rooms for the societies, with recesses for the libraries. The whole cost of the building was between $7,000 and 173 [ 120e] $8,000. The library-room is, say 53 by 25 feet, and 14 feet high. A catalogue of the library (42 pp. 8vo.) was printed inl 1840. "The college library embraces, in addition to works of general literature, a valuable collection of philological works, procured in.Europe.' It also contains a large collection of text-books, which furnishes, at a trifling percentage, nearly all the'text-books used in the preparatory and college courses; and a considerable portion of these are the best German editions of entire works. " In addition to these, there are three libraries belonging to the college societies, carefuilly selected, and placing within the reach of students a considerable amount of useful reading. "' The present number of volumes in the several libraries is as follows: College Library, general literature - - 2,650 philology - 1,0()0 6 text-books - - - 650 Psi Gamma Society Library - - - - 850 Alphna Kappa " - - - 750 Society of Inquiry ".- - 500 Total 6,400'9 Dr. S. P. Hildreth has lately presented his valuable cabinet to the college. T'his cabinet contains;' more than 4,000 specimens in the various departments of natural, history, arranged in cases and drawers, labelled, numbered, and entered in a catalogue under their respective heads." /he Mi2tarietta Library Association-. l,)00 vols.- This association has been in existence many years. A brick building, two stories high,' was erected by it some twenty years ago for a library and lecture room. A thousand dollars have lately been raised for the purchase of books. The librarian is Thomas Vinton. There is also at Marietta a library collected from the proceeds of a part of the township reservation for religious purposes. It is now under the care of the Universalist Church. NEW' ATHEINS. Frainklin College Librarics —2,000 vols. OBERLIN. Institute Libraries —4,000 vois.-This institution was chartered with university privileges in 1833.-.'4. It embraces a theological, college, teachers', ladies', and preparatory department. There are about 4,( 000 volumes in the libraries, as stated in the American Almanac for 1850. OXFORD. Mieami UJiiversity Libraries -6786 vols. —-3Miami University was founded in 1809. A graimiar school was established in 118. The' university begarn its operations in 1S24. The library of the uiiversity was founded in' 1812, and contains 3,4S6 volumes. It increases at the rate o-f about 200 volumes a vear. Some appropriation is generally mtade for each year to purchase books: for five years previous to August, 1847, it was abopt [ 120 ] 174 $250 a year. Now, it is $150. The universitylibrary and the two society.libraries occupy three separate rooms, each 32 feet in length, 18 feet in breadth, and 18 feet. high. The university library is open every Saturday morning for half an hour, and generally for two or three hours every afternoon. Persons entitled to the use of the books are-the faculty, free; students, who pay fifty cents a session; also the inhabitants of Oxford, on the same terms as the students. The number of volumes lent out, of the library during the year ending October 1, 1848, is 489. This is perhaps about the average. There are, in connexion with the institution, two students' libraries: the Erodelphian, containing ]:,500 volumes, and the Miami Union, containing 1,800 volumes. James C. Moffat, librarian. SPRINGFIELD. Wittenburg College Libraries —5,265 vols. -The library was founded May 4, 1846, and contains 1,406 volumes. About 100 dollars per year are expended for books. The library is opened once a week, and kept open one hour each time. H. K. Geiger, librarian. The Excelsior and Philosophian Societies, composed of students of the college, possess valuable libraries. The Excelsior library contains 2,054 volumes and increases about 600 volumes per annum. About 150 dollars are, each year expended for books. The Philosophian library contains 1,805 volumes and increases about 522 volumes per annum. About 135 dollars are annually expended for books. Lyceum Library. -The Springfield Lyceum was formed November 19, 1832, but till 1849 it had but few members. Its library numbered but about 300 volumes. Lately a new impulse has been given to the institution: a reading-room has been opened and supplied with 33 of the best reviews and newspapers, and public lectures have been commenced. The number of members has increased to 150, paying annually three dollars each. The room is open daily. Edward M. Doty, librarian. STEUBENVILLE. City Library.-The Steubenville City Library was founded in 1847, and contains 550 volumes. A catalogue is in press. The libraly is open every Saturday evening from 6 to 8 o'clock., Members pay 10 cents a mnonth for the use of the books-others 20 cents. David F. Cobb, librarian. ZANESVILLE. Atheneunm Library-3,580 vols.-The Zanesville Athenmum was incorporated in 1828. The library contains 3,580 volumes, and increases at the rate of about 100 volumes a year. Two catalogues have been printed: one, 20 pp. 12mo., 1831; the other, 72 pp. 8vo., 1843. The library is open daily. The librarian is in attendance Wednesday and Saturday evenings. Stockholders pay five dollars per annum: subscribers thre dollars. 175 [ 120 ] INDIAN A. BLOOMINGTON. Irndiana State University Libraries-5,000 vols.-This institution was founded in 1816. In the catalogue for 1848 are the following notices of the libraries connected with the university: "The college library is open to all of the students on paying a subscription of 50 cents per session. Each subscriber is permitted to take out a volume every Saturday. "This library has recently been augmented by a purchase of about 2,000 dollars worth of books, some of them rare, and valuable. It embraces a choice collection of Greek, Latin, French, and English classics, the best standard works on history, biography, and the sciences, together with a selected variety of miscellaneous literature."'"There are two literary societies connected with the university-the Philomathean and Athenian Societies. Each has a well selected library of several hundred volumes." In the Law School, a good law library is provided for the use of the students. The aggregate number of volumes in the libraries may be stated at 5,000. A catalogue was printed in 1.S40, containing 50 pages Svo., pre. pared on the plan proposed by Professor Park in his "Pantology." Monroe County Library-4,000 vols. C RAWFORDSVILLE. Wabash College Libraries —6,100vols.-Wabash College was established in 1833. The library was commenced in;1835, and burnt in 1838. It was a choice collection ofi about 2,000 volumes, exclusive of the textbook library. A new collection was begun in 1839. It contains 4,300 volumes. There is a small fund slowly accumulating for the purchase of books. It is proposed soon to erect a new building for the library and other purposes. The library is open once a week, and is accessible to all persons connected with the institution. Students pay 25 cents a term for the use of the books. There are two societies of students-the Lyceum and the Calliopean. Each has 900 volumes.'Professor Caleb Mills, librarian. EVANSVILLE. Vanderburg County Library-2,000 vols.-The saute of $1,000 has been placed in the hands of the treasurer, and about an equal sum is due from the county, for the purpose of founding a county library. An agent will purchase the books in the spring. The library will be open to all inhabitants of the county on the payment of $- per year. John Ingle, jr., treasurer; J. A. Corbet, secretary. FRANKLIN, College Libraries-600 vols. [ 120] 16 GREENCGASTLE. Indiana Asbury University Library —2,700 vols. SOUTH - IHANGVER. Hanzover College Lbraries-4,OO /vols. —This institution was founded in 1829. In-the triennial catalogue! for 1849, it is stated: "-By the liberality of friends in the East and elsewLhere, a very valuable library, and. an extensive an4d excellent cabinet: of minerals, have been: recently obtained." The; number-of volumes:at present (January, 1850) is 1,700. There are t-wo societies of students possessing; libraries —the Union Literary Society, 1,500 volumes; Philalethian Society, 1,500 volumes. -:INDIANAPOLIS. The State Library —7,000) vols.-Founded by aict of legislature, Februaryi 1, 1825; and contain$s about 7,000:volumes, exclusiveof duplicates and surplus legislative acts and journals. It has also niany valuable maps and charts; some cuributs. Mexicanl armor and'arms; a:portrait of " Beato Simon de Cassia; "' painted i.n 1751; a painting of the "' Tipleca.noe battle-grounnd,' 150: square: feet;' and a small callection, of minerals and fossils. The average increase is aboutt 250: volumes per annum, including congressional documents. The average expenditure is about $20() a year. The legislature imakes, alnnually, a specific'appropriation for th!e increase of the State library. It is usually $300-part of which goes to pay for newrspapers, periodicals,- alid b inding. The library occupies four rooms on the first floor of ithe State-house-together, 80 feet long, 24 feet wide. The last printed: catalogue:lwas published in 1841, and contains 36 pages Svo. The library iss open daily (Sundays excepted) fromn 9 a. m. to: 6 p. mi.: during,the sittings of the legislature, the supreme cour-t of Indiana, and the districti -ourt oft thee United States-at otheri times, every Saturday from: 8: a. m tol 4 p.'n.: Persons entitled to te use o the library are: members of the; legislaturei ministers i of Ithe gospel,:editors of newspapers i, physicians, engrieers,- on the,pu-blic' works, judge,s of the United States. and State dourtsj attorneys of the: supreme court, officers of State benevolent institutions, secretaries and clerks of the legislature, and all persons elected to office by the legislature. T'o such persons, the books may be lent out for a period not exceeding 30 days-the books not to be taken from the seat of government. About 1,600 are taken out annually. JohnB:,. DilTle, librarian. LA;PORTE. Indianca Medic ol (Colle-ethe mnedical depart ment of Laporte unlliversity. The catalogue for 1845-'6 states:'During the: past winter a wmedlical atnd scientific library association, connected with the institution, was formed. Students can have access to the library by complying with necessary regulations.' LOGANSPORT. The Sg~ourney Library-3,000 vo1s. 1,77 [120] NORT lP BEND. St. Mary's Library-2,000 vols.-The University of Notre Dame du Lac, at North Bend, established 1842, possesses a library of the above name, containing 2,000 volumes. It is kept in a fine room, 21 feet by 14, in the college, and is open daily from I to 5 o'clock for the use of the professors, students, and neighbors. About 1,000 books are lent out annually. E. A. Dussaulx, librarian. VINCENNES. Public Library —1,700 vols.-The Vincennes library was established ullly 20, 1806, and contains (1850) 1,700 volumes.:It is:kept in a room, 15 feet square, in the City Hall. The first catalogue was printed in 1813; the next and last in 183S, of 17 pages 8vo. The library is opened once a week for three hours. Any individual may have the use of the books by paying $2 annually. Willis M. Hitt, librarian. COUNTY LIBRARIES. The State of Indiana provided, in the law laying out the State intow counties, for the appropriation of a piece of land in each county to the establishment of a public library. The income of the money arising from the sale of certain reserved iots was to be appropriated to the purchase of books. Monroe county has already procured a valuable library of 4,000 volumes: it is located at Bloomington. Vandenburgh county, as already stated, is about to establish one. Other counties, it is believed. have already commenced their collections, but we have not as yet been able to procure exact statistics concerning them. In some cases, the attempt to establish these libraries has failed, and the books collected have been sold at auction.' The difficulty arose from the want of a':librarian. No salary having been provided for such an officer, the books were neglected, and the library finally, abandoned.'Historical SJciety of the County of V4-io.-From the anniversary lecture delivered before this society in March, 1844, by Rev. Robert B. Croes, we learn that one principal:object of the society is to collect a library. I L L I N 0 S 8 CHICAGO. Mechanics' Li6rary —,000 vols.-The Chicago Mechanics' Irnstitute was founded in 1842, and possesses 1,000 volumnes, 40 maps and charts, and 500 minerals. It expends for books about $150 a year. The institute has a bequest of real estate, situated in the city, valuled at $5,000, as a permanent fund, but at present unavailable. The library is atpresent kept in a brick building adjoining the Mechanics' Hall. Two catalogues have been published-one printed in 1843; the second, (30 pages 12no.,) in 1847. The library is open for consultation every evening, and for the delivery of books once a week, The library is free to all persons for special reference.'Members of the institute, their families and apprentices, Mie..-12 [ 20] 178 may use it without charge. Other citizens pay $3 ier annum; apprentices, $1. About 2,000 volumes a year are lent out. A., D. Taylor, librarian GALESBURG'. Knox Man,,al [L4bdr College Library-i I,400 vols. —The library was founded in 1844, aned:contains 1,400 volnmes, besides 400 text books and 500 volumes belonging to the preparatory department. About $4(0 a year are expended for books. The library is open once every two weeks for an hour. College students pay $1 a year fdo the use of the library. About 300 volumes a year are lent to the faculty and students. The Adelphi Society of Students has a sm.tll library, purchased a few months ago for $10 0. q Ghe"' ("u o thautic Society" ihas $75 strbscribed for the pnrchase of books, J. S. K-uhn, librarian. GODFREYe.Monticello Female Seminary, 4 miles from AYton, ITlinois, foinded 188. —"''. The library consists of, nmore than; 1,000 vols. It is accessible to all pupils.>' [See 11th annual catalogue.] JA OKIS ONVILLE illineois College Library —-4,000 vols.-The, library was founded in 1830, and contains - 4,000 volumes.- It is open twice a week, one hour each time., William Coffin, librarian. LEBANON.i McKendree Clleg'e Libraries —,825 vols.-The college. library was founded in 1820, and. contains 1,200 volumes. The average increase is;about 100 volumes a year, mostly donations. A catalogue will soon be printed. The library is free to ail persons connected with the college. About 400 volumes are taken out ann ually. The library is open once a-week for one hour-.:. The Philosophian Society of Students, founded in 1846, has.a library of 465 volurmes, The Platonian Society, formed 1849, has 160,volumnes. Professor A. W. Cummings, librarian, McKendree College. SPRINGFIELD. Stae Library of Illinois-4,000'vols.-This library contains 4,000 vol-.umes or more, exclusive of duplicates. Fromr the last annual report of the librarian, presented'to th-e legislature 9th January, 1849, it appears that the sum of $191 29 7was expend}ed the preceding year for r miscellaneous books. This sum was the proceeds of the sale of the State laws, which are by law appropriated to the library. The secretary:of state is ex oficio librarian; but, in the report referred to, he suggests "whether tlis department,' consisting of this peculiar description of property, belonging to the State, of thousands of dollars in value, does not merit the personal sole attention of a competeni t ersbon selected'for the exclusive purpose," &c' "A c6atalogue of the books belonging to the Illinois State Library, prepared by II. S. Cooley, secretary of state and ex oficio librarian, January, 1848," was printed at Springfieldin 1848, containing 47 pages 8vo. The L V~~~~~~~PC~~ ~ ~ ITO [120o ataklgue is dNriided into seven parts: 1, jurisprudence;`2, miscellaneous xrorks-;', t'asrs and judicia! reports of the State; 4, legislative journals and reports of the State; 5, law's of the several States; 6, laws, documents,: &c.,'of the United States; 7,' pampWlets, maps, &c The library is required to be open every day, (Sundays excepted,) du-'ing the session thethe legisattire,'from 8 a. m. till 5 p. m. -Books may be taken ouit by members and officers of the General Assembly during its session, and at any time by the governor, officers of the'executive departm'ents, justices of the s'upreme coulrt', and attorney enerals r'he librarian. says, at the close -of his'last report:;'.The tndersigned would respectfully call thle attention of the legislatuIre to the fact that our library probably embraces a less n idmber and a Bless valuable and useful collection of miscellaneous books than is found in any of the libraries of our sister States, which suggests the importance of providing, by law, for a small suml to be appropriated yearly, from the public: treasury, for the purchase'of scientific and'other works for 4this departmen't'of the library.`ST.'cCLAR COUNTY. T/le Germnan Library'of St. C/lair.county-l,821 vols.-We are indebted to Mr. Anthony Schott for the: following interesting account of the library founded and sustained by the intelligent and educated German settlers in St. Clair county:'"About the year iS30 the wave of immigration from Germany reached the Mississippi' river, and but shortly afterwards it was swelled to an unprecedented height by political causes on the old continont. The consequences and reactions of the French revolution of that year, in and on Germany, caused a great number of persons to despond of any meliorations in the State affairs of Germany, and to seek for an asyliim from the renewed and increased oppressions in their fatherland. Those who wended their way to America were in great numbers froim the professional classes, and mostly men in the prime of their lives, who, with youthful ardor, had entered into' the political arena, and many of whom had been more or less implicated in the efforts fiuitlessly made to obtain the liberty of'the press and more liberal constitutions. Upon them the following book exerted an immense influence:' Duden's Account of aResidenee in the Western: States of Nortlh Amelria;' (first edition: Ebberfield, 1829.) It was written in an earnest and philosophical manner, in as tyl7eas it: were, expressly adapted: to the well educated classes. To that book, it may safely be ascribed, that between 1830 and 1840 so large a number of German emigrants: settled in the counties of St. Louis, St. Charles, Washington, Franklin, in Missouri; and of St. Clair, in Illinois. Thus, in 1836 we found some: 5,000 to 6,000 volumes of books in the possession of new settlers in St. Clair county, Ill., who lived not very far apart and mostly in social intercourse. It was, therefore, practicable to provide for a common centre, in which these books, if not immediately, yet in the future, might be collected, instead of being scattered and lost. The impulse was given by Sparks's.Writings of Washington, offered by a trading agent and desired by many, but: too expensive for any one alone. This book was fitly made the corner-stone of a common library, to be built up by a very small annual contribution, ($2) by donations, (and of course they were very often books discarded fron the shelves of the donors for their worthlessness to them:; though I have' had the sati:sfaCtdof' of seeing many of them used to good purpose, which 1 never hlaad ex. pected to take down again,) and eventually by legacies, Ou'r smali means have been since 1840 still more limited, by a deduction of 20 per cent. of the yearly income for a reserved fund designed to purchase at the county seat a building for the library, when our books shall have be come too numerous to be contained in a room of the libarian s farm-house9 (not in a log-house built for that.pirpose, as Dr. Lurdewig says in his article on'the libraries of the United States, in Natimann's Serapetnm, No. 9, Leipzig, 1846, where he also errs in giving another library to the Gerimans at Belleville,) and to buy, by free lodgigs therein, the services of a' young professional man as a librarian,- when they would no smore be rendered grataitously.' Under these circumstances, we feel some satisfaction that toe German Library Society of St. Clair county, Illinois, incorporated by act of our legislature in 1839; now contains 885 Works, in 1,821 voltunes; that there are among thenl some corlections of comparative value, (the works of the great men of our Revolution;) Congressional documents, due to the favor of our senators and representatives; continued files of several Germart and American newspapers and periodicals; publications in reference to the liberal movements in, Germany since 183f; on emigration; on ancient German literature; on agriculture; on mathematics, &e.; and that We have reason to hope that our library, whenever it will be proper to transfer' it to Belleville, will be firmly enough established to paws through the ihcrease of expenses coincident with the expected increase of means and usefuilness, which hias frequently prostrated similar institutions- e. g., the St. Louis Bibrary, in 183. "* In the catalogue, as far as it has been printed, the books are numbered according to'the time they came into the possession of the society; but we have an Alphabetical catalogue, containing the full titles on detached leaves; and thirdly, (not a so-called scientific' catalogue, ibr which our iibrary is too small, but) a catalogus nzaterar m, where,. under proper heads, all dOur books treating on the same subject are nakmed.-".EPPAR,ALTON. SShurte'College Library- 1 V,20 vol.-The library contains I,520 books, and 700' pamphlets and magazines. About..60' or 70 books are added each year. The -library is open, one hour each week. Trtusees, the faculty.and students of the institattin, and such literary'geTn.men in the vicinity as the committee may designatei are entited to thenise of the library. The Alpha Zeta Society of Students, recently establishedi possesses a small library. Washington Leverett, librarian...'XI t S S"'O Ui R I. cAPEP GftRARDEAU'. St. Mary's College. Library-2, 400 vals. 1181 [ -120 e OLTjMBIA. Mis.souri Uqliversity Libraries-I:l,200 vols.-The college library was foun'ded in 1842; and contains 675 volumes. One appropriation, which was of $1,200, has been made for books. It is not wholly expended. The endowment of the university is $100,000, invested in bank stock.'The library-room in the university building is 36 feet by 24. It is open one hour every two weeks.:The use'of the books is without charge to officers and students. The Athenian Society of Students has 200 vol-,umes; the Union Literary Society, 325 volumes. R. S.' Holmes, college librarian:' FAYETTE.. oward High School Librrary-500 vols.-This flourishing institution occupies the buildings designed for Fayette College, which, though charlered, never went into operation. It has a library of 500 volumes, com-;menced; in 1849. There is a. fiend yielding $100 annual income to be continued for the increase of the library till it reaches 2,000 volumes. It will probably be continued longer. W. T. Lucky, principal. JEFFERSON CITY. State L;brary of Missouri-4,637 vols. —The library was established by law in 1829. In 1831 the sum of $150 a year was appropriated for the purchase of books. In 1833 the annual appropriation was raised to $450. On the' 15th November, 1837, the library was destroyed by fire, and everything valuable lost. The library at present contains 4,637 volumes, and.32 maps and charts. It derives'a small income from the sale of the State reports,' laws, &c. The library-room is in the State House. It is one half of a circle, 56 feet in diareter, 16 feet high. During the session of the General Assembly it is kept open from 9 a. m. to 5 p. m. daily. During the recess it is opened occasionally, as the librarian may ldirect;. State offlicers and members of the legislature may take out books, by giving receipts to the librarian. All other persons who desire it may onstult the: books in the room. The clerk of the supreme court is made, by iaw,a er qfficio librarian. Present officer, William E. Dunscomb. T the Historical and Philosophical Society of Missouri, 300 vols.From the first number of the "Annals" of the society, (29 pp. Svo., 1848,) we take the following account of the society and its collections:' In the year 1844 a few individuals made an effort to establish a Historical and Philosophical Society for the State of Missouri, similar to institutions successfully established in other States. On the 18th of December,:in that- year, a meeting was held in the Senate chamber, in the city of Jefferson, at which measures were taken to organize the society, addresses were delivered explaining its object and utility, a constitution adopted for its -government, fourteen gentlemten enrolled their names as members, and a committee was appointed to apply to the General Assembly for an act of incorporation. The Rev. Dr. Goodrich presented to the society a volume of ancient travels in America, and a fac-simile engraving of hiero-:glyphics, found in an Indian mound in Illinois, and these constituted the beginning of a library and cabinet which will probably become extensive,and valuable. The constitution declared the objects of the society to be [ 1201 182 to collect and preserve all papers, memorials and documents connected with the early history of Missouri, and all statistics in any way pertaining to the population, mineral, navigable and agrieultural resources. of the State, and to make publication thereof from time to time. In- conformity to the request of the society, an act of incorporation was passed and approved by the. governor on the 27th day of' February, 184L5.' ince that time an act has been passed granting- to the.society the use of a room in the capitol, well adapted to its purposes. The society is located at the city of. Jefferson, but branches or auxiliary societies may be established in any other part of the State*.' The first annual meeting of the society was held on the 20th of January, 1845, at which officers were chosen for the ensuing year, new members admitted, several distinguished citizens of other States were elected as honorary members; the presentation of some books, mineral specimens, and other articles, was announced, and resolutions were passed requesting the co-operation of the citizens of the State.' "' The second annual meeting of the society was'held on the 19th -of January, 1846; at which addresses were delivered, the presentation of ad'ditio.ns to the library, cabinet', and.museuim, announced,'resolutions passed, and officers chosen for.the, succeeding year."' " The third annual meeting occurred on the 19th of January, 1847, at which reports of officers were heard,-resolutions adopted, officers for the year selected,, and addresses delivered.; "On the 17th of January, 1848; the.fourth annual meeting or the society was hield,at which' the' reports of the officers were made and approved, some appropriate speeches were delivered, and officers for the present year selected. "A rooim has "been fitted up for the reception of' books,. pamphlets, papers, manuscripts, curiosities, and other articles, and the foundation for a library,.cabine.t-and nmuseum has been laid; and hopes are entertained that the liberality and public spirit of the citizens of Missouri will cause the same to be rapidly increased by many valuable additions. -" All editors and publishers of weekly newspapers and peTiodicals are solicited to present to the sod ciety regular files thereof' in order that they may be bound in volumes and carefully preserved. The authors. of all books, pamphlets, and publications of every kind, are requested to donate a copy of the same for the use of' the library. The society invites the contribution of all old letters and manuscripts, illustrating the history of the discovery and early settlement of Missouri and of the western country. Files of all newspapers and periodicals that have been: heretofore published in the State, will be very acceptable. Ancient and'curious books and pamphlets are desired as additions to the library, particularly all such as relate to the western country. A copy of.every book and pamphlet that was ever published in the, State is desired; no publication should he considered too unimportant to enter into such a collections. One object of the society is to collect and preserve the fleeting and ephemeral publications that otherwise would be buried'iy oblivion. Citizenis throughout the State may make many contributions to the society without much troulble or inconvenience,.' PALMYRA. Masonic College Library-2,500 vols. ~Saint Charles College Library -390 vols. 183 [ 12 ] ST.. LOUIS.University.Libraries-13,580 vols.-The college library, founded in 1829, contains 12,500 volumes, increasing at the rate of 200 volumes a year. It occupies a room 40 feet by 20 in the college building; opened once a day' All persons connected with the university are entitled to the use of the books. Others are permitted to consult the library at any time. There are three libraries belonging to societies of students: The Philalethian, with 630 volumes; the Orthological, 200 volumes; and the Phileuphradic, 250 volumes. Caspar Girsch, librarian. /Mercantile Library Association-4,299 vols.,-This association was founded' in 1846. From the fourth report of the directors (January, 1850) we gather the following facts: The present number of members is S89. During the year 1849 $1,888 40:were expended for 1,060 volumes; and 470 volumes were presented. Fromt the origin, of the library $4,901 40 have been expended for books. Those presented during the same time were valued at $1,766. Whole number of volumes in the library, 4,299. Anr alphabetical catalogue, with a classified index, forming about 300 pages 8vo., is now in press. Use of the books during the year, 4,743 volumes. 38 periodicals are taken. Of 20 of these the sets are complete. The librarian is William P. Curtis. Great pains seem to have been taken in the selection of books; and all the affairs of the institution. appear to be conducted with much energy and good judgment. Law Library-1,500 vols.-The Law Library was established in 1840, by members of the bar, and is kept in a room of the court-house. MICHI GA N. ALBION. Wesleyan College Library —700 vols.-The Wesleyan College, founded in 1848, is making arrangements for the: gathering of a library. The preparatory department, which has been longer in operation, has a library of about 700 volumes. C. T. Hinman, president. - ANN AaRBOR. Michigan University —5,000 vols.-Founded in 1837.'The library of this institution was purchased a few years since in Europe, and consists of between 4,()00 and 5,000 volumes of well-selected standard works, in the various departments of literature and science. There are two literary societies connected with the college, which hold weekly meetings during term time, and possess valuable libraries of select and miscellaneous books." [Catalogue, 1848-'9.] Professor Abram Seager, librarian. DETROIT. St. Philips College Library-3,000 vols. Young Iffen's Society Library -1,815 vols.-The Detroit Young Men's Society was formed in 1833. Its library at present contains 1,S15 volumes. The annual increase has been about 100 volumes; but of late 1o20] i84 a new and vigorous impulse has-been given to the society. The number of paying members is 103, including many of the first citizens of the place. A new brick building has' been erected by the society, and will be ready for occupation iri October, 1850. The building is -95 feet by 24. The lower story will be rented; f6r' stores. The second story contains, besides two, offices, a'large- hall for lectures; 70 feet by 40. The third story is divided into two'-rooms: one for a library, and the other for a committee-room, &c: This edifice, when completed, will have cost about $8,000, Te. The lot;on which it is built (valued at $5,J00) was given to the society by the land board of "he th endistrict., It is:: eligbly situated on Jefferson: avenue-the principai' commercial'street of the city'. It. is expected tfhat therent of those parts of the building not occupied by the society will, in She course of a few years, pay for the building, and yield a considerable revenue for the support and enlargement of the institution. The library,. when removed, will be placed in perimanent glass as'es; and arranged according to subjects. The rooms will be open at all times of the day, for menbers of the society, and their friends not citizens. Members are elected by the:board of managers. They pay $2 each as initia2 tion.fee, and an annu-al assessment of $:2. The: society is' not:'solely a library association, but;it embraces also another department- that ofleetures and debates. A- catatogue of thlie library (43 pages 8So.) was printed in 1842. John: S.:an Alstyne, librarian.: LANSING. State Library-4,400 vols —The library was founded A. D. 1836, and contains 4,400 volumes. Fromn. 1839 to 1848 there were no additions by purchase. In 1848, 395 volumes were purchased for $620, and 226 volumes were presented. In 1849, about 400 volumes were added to the collection. The library is kept in a room of the capitol. A catalogue was printed April 1, 1846;, The library is 9pen every day from 9 a. m. to 12 m., and from 2 to 4 p. im. State officers and members of the legislature are entitled to take out the books.' The secretary of state is ex officio State librarian. A clerk in his office has charge of the library, under his direction. MONROE. Public Lbrary-1,500 vols;. SPRING ARBOR. Central College Library- i,6'00' otsl 300 TOWNSHIP LIBRARIES, -43,926 vorLs. "The law has for several years made it the duty of the supervisor to assess a half-mill tax upon each dollar of the taxable property of his township for the purchase of a township library, a portion of which tax may, when certain conditions are complied with,, be applied to the support of schools. "The'constitution of the State pr'ovides that'the clear proceeds of all ines.assessed in the several counties for any breach of the penal laws, shall;be exclusively applied to the support of said libraries.' "'Although, according to the returns, there are but 300 township libraries -in the 425 townships of the State from which reports have been received, 185 [ 12 ] still, there is a very gratifying increase in the number of these libraries, the number of volumes they contain, and the extent of their circulation. There are thirty more township libraries reported this year than last, containing in all 43,926 volumes, which is 6,938 more than they contained, according to the reports received, for the year 1846. These libraries circulate through 1,349 districts, which shows an increase of 268 over ally former year. Communlications received from several counties afford very gratifying evidence of their increased usefulness." [Mr. Mayhew's report, 1847. The amount of mill tax for township libraries in 1847 was $7,368 75. The amount of fines, &c., collected, $807 15. 74 SCHOOL DISTRICT LIBRARIES 3,294 VOLS. The statutes formerly provided for these libraries. Now, however, the nioney formerly applied to them is devoted to township libraries. There are, however, still left seventy-four of these district libraries, with an aggregate of 3,294 volumes. I O WA. BURLINGTON. "The'Iowa Historical and Geological Institute' was organized December 18, 1843, but tenl years after the departure of the'red men,' by four citizens of this city, and now [December, 1849] numbers over thirty members. The object of the association cannot be better communicated than by transcribing a portion of the preamble of the constitution:'We, the undersigned, agree to organize an institution, to be located permanently at Burlington, Iowa, the object of which shall be the establishment of a cabinet of curiosities, of a library, and of a depository of records and papers relating to the primitive settlement, early history, and geological features of iowa.' "'l'he objects of the association have been steadily kept in view, and constant additions are being made to the geological and historical departments, as well as to the library. The geological and mineralogical specimens amount to about two thousand, and some of them are exceedingly rare and valuable. The collection of historical papers, records, and facts relative to the early settlement and history of this State has demanded the special attention of some of the members; and thus has many an important historical fact, that otherwise, by the death or'removal of the actors, would have been lost, been collected and preserved among the archives of the institute." [Letter from David Rorer, corresponding secretary.] DAVENPORT. The college at Davenport, Iowa, is in active operation. It has commenced the formation of' a library. IOWA CITY. State Library of Iowa- 1,600 vols.-The State Library was founded in 1839, and contains about 1,600 volumes. The yearly additions have been [ 120] 186 very small, derived from an exchange of law books and public documents between the States, and donations by Congress, probably not exceeding ten volumes a year. The library-room is in the capitol, and measures 42 feet by 21, and 14 feet high. A catalogue was printed in 1839, and another in 1845, containing 18 pp. 8vo. The library is open every day during the sessions of the legislature and the supreme court, from 9 o'clock a. m. to 9 p. In.; at other times it is open on Wednesday and Saturday afternoons. State officers, members of the legislature, and members of the supreme court' bar; are entitled to the use of the books. Lemuel B. Patterson, State librarian. This infant State has' already made legislative provision for a State university, with several branches; a system of district schools, with normal schools, and district libraries, A superintendent has been elected-Mr. Thomas H. Benton, jr, He has lately published, in a handsome pamphlet of 140 pages, " Statutes of the State of Iowa relating to Common Schools, including forms, regulations, and instructions, respecting'proceedings under those Statutes," 8vo: Iowa City, 1S49. This contains plais of school houses, selections of books for district libraries, &c. There is a Presbyterian College at West Point; Lee county. WISCONSIN. BELOIT. Beloit College Libraries-1,000 vols. —The catalogue of Beloit College and Seminary for 1849-'50 states that - the libraries connected with the college now amount to over 1,000 volumes, and arrangements are made which will insure their progressive increase."I MADISON. State' Library-,000 vols.-Founded in 1836; contains about 4,000 volumes, including pamphlets and magazines. The sum of $5,000 was appropriated by Congress in 1836 for the purchase of books. Since then no additions of importance have been made, except the laws and reports received from the different States. The library is placed in a room of the capitol,, measuring18 feet by 42. There has: been: no printed catalogue, but one will be published by January 1, 1850. Books are lent out to the: members of the legislature, judges of the supreme court, and the State officers, to be returned in six days. About 5,000 persons consult the library yearly...It is opened during the sessions of the legislature and supreme court, from 9 a. nm. to 8 p. m. Privileged persons can always have access to the books. George P. Delaplaine, State librarian. University of the State of Wisconsin, at College Hill, near Madison.This institution was incorporated in 1849. A State Historical Society has been formed, and has commenced the gathering of a library. The first annual meeting of the Society dwas held at Madison, January 15, 1850. MILWAUKIE. Tile Young Men's Association of the City of Milwaukie has a library 187 [ 120 3 of more than 1,000 well-selected, volumes. In the reading-room are to be found many of the valuable periodicals of the day. The library is open for the delivery of books every Wednesday from 2 to 5 o'clock, and Saturday evenings. The reading-room is open every evening. A catalogue of the library (18 pp. 12mno.) was printed in 1848. MINNESOTA. ST. PAUL. -Minnesota Historical Society.-This society was incorporated by the legislative assembly of the Territory on the 10th of October, 1849. It has already issued "Annals of the Minnesota Historical Society," 8vo., 28 pages: St. Paul. The officers of the society invite exchanges and contributions towards the formation of a library. Alexander Ramsey, president. Territorial Library-3,000 vols.-The act of Congress establishing the Territory of Minnesota, approved March 3, 1849, contains an appropriation of $5,000 for a library, to be kept at the seat of government, for the use of the officers of thie Territory, and other persons, under suitable regulations. The library (December, 1850) has been organized: 3,000 volumes of good books (law and miscellaneous) have been purchased, and a catalogue (30 pages Svo.) published. Charles Cavileer, librarian. ST. ANTHONY FALL. The St. Anthony Library Association was incorporated November I, 1849. During the winter of 1849, a series of lectures was delivered before the association. Just after the incorporation of the society, a purchase of books was made, as a nucleus of the proposed library. There are now, perhaps, 200 volumes upon the shelves. CALIFORNIA. C A L I F 0 R N I A. MONTEREY. "A good beginning for a public library has been made by the formation of the Monterey Library Association, and a subscription of $1,400. The plan meets with decided public favor, and an order has been forwarded to New York for books." -New York Observer, May 18, 1850. TERRITORIES OF OREGON, NEW MEXICO, UTAH. The acts of Congress establishing these Territories contain appropriations of $5,000 to each for the purchase of Territorial libraries. Tlrhe library of Oregon has already (January, 1S51) been purchased. Dr. Bernhisel, an energetic and intelligent agent, has been appointed to collect the library for Utah, and has made good progress in the work. MILITARY LIBRARIES. We are indebted to a distinguished officer for the following account of the military libraries connected with the United States army: t 120] 18B " Under authority of the'General Regulations for the Army,' libraries, consisting of newspapers, pamphlets, ahd bound books, are formed at most, if not all, the military posts occupied: by our army. The fund for the purchase of these is accumulated by sarvings in the bake-houses on soldiers' bread, and taxes on" the sutlers of the posts. "The number of volumes is generally but a few hundred, and not more than a thousand, probably, at-any one of the largest posts; and the number is constantly varying, by the wear and tear of the books in the hands of soldiers, and by the interruptions occasioned very frequently of late by the removal of the troops or division of the companies comprising the garrison, as, in all such cases, the detached troops are entitled to take with them, their proportionate shares of the library. "'The formatione of these libraries, and the instituting of schools for in. struction of soldiers and children at the military posts, have had a very beneficial effect, in the education of those who, without these advantages, would never be able to read, and inducing an application of time to books which otherwise would be. spent in- idleness and indulgence- in evil habits;."' a Mis. No. 50. 189 CLASSIFICATION. In the following Table are exhibited, in seven classes, the number of libraries in each State with the number of volumes which they contain-gathered from the foregoing notices. These several classes of libraries may be characterized, in general terms, as follows: 1. State libraries, including those of the general government and of the executive departments, and those of the State courts. Almost all the States in the Union have organized State libraries. Those which have not, possess collections of books which will ere long serve as the foundations of such Libraries. These libraries are composed, to a great extent, of public documents of the general and State governments, with works on statistics, political economy, history, &c. Some of them, as the Library of Congress, the New York State library,&c., take a much wider range, and are extremely valuable collections for general reference. 2. Social libraries, including athenaeums, lyceums, young men's associations, mechanics' institutions, mercantile libraries, &c.-These libraries are generally composed of popular works for reading rather than for reference. But among them are many of the best collections in the country. We think, that any one, looking over the catalogues of these libraries, would be surprised and gratified to find them generally so well selected. In some States, almost every town has, under some name, a social library. Most of these collections, it is true, are very small, containing less than a thousand volumes; but there doubtless are a great many, far more considerable in size, which have been unintentionally overlooked. 3. College libraries, (exclusive of students' libraries.)-Our colleges are mostly eleemosynary institutions. Their libraries are frequently the chance aggregations of the gifts of charity; too many of them discarded, as well nigh worthless, from the shelves of the donors. This is not true of all our college libraries; for among them are some very important collections, chosen with care and competent learning, purchased with economy, and guarded with prudence,though ever available to those who wish to use them aright. 4. Stuldents' libraries, in colleges, professional schools, academies, &c.-The societies formed by students in our seminaries of learning, for mutual improvement in debate and composition, for the most part possess libraries. These are generally useful collections of books of a popular character. Sometimes (in Yale College particularly) they are large, well selected, and admirably arranged and kept. Dust seldom gathers on the books in such collections. 5. Libraries of professional schools and igicorporated academies. This class includes theological seminaries, law schools, medical colleges, and military academies as well as high schools, generally termed in this country "academies." The professional schools, several of them, possess the best special libraries in the country. These institutions (particularly the theological) are so frequently connected with academies, that it was found most convenient to group them together. The notices in the body of this work will generally enable the reader to subdivide this class, as well as the other classes, if desired. 6. Libraries of Learned Societies,-scientific, literary and historical. These libraries are mostly composed of the Transactions of similar societies and of periodicals which contain the current records of science and letters. They have been mostly procured by donation and exchange. Some of these collections are extensive and iniportant. The historical societies are doing great service in gathering and guarding the precious memorials of our early annals. 7. Public School Libraries. Several of the states, have taken great interest in supplying every township and school district with a library. Other states have commenced such collections, and it is to be hoped that they may be greatly multiplied. They are not intended for pupils alone, but for all the population of the district or township to which they belong. They are composed of valuable books, designed and adapted to communicate useful knowledge in a popular way, and to cultivate all the higher elements of character. They are in continual use, and it is impossible to overestimate their beneficial influence. Another class of libraries of which it has not been in my power to collect the statistics comprises Sunday School Libraries. The aggregate number of books which they contain is very great. These books, though mostly for juvenile readers, are always of a moral or religious tendency, and they have vast influence in forming the intellectual as well as the moral character of the people. IJ Tabular view of public libraries in the United States. State libraries. Social libraries. College libra- Students' libra- Libraries of Libraries of Public school Totals for States. ries. ries. academies and scientific and libraries. professional historical schools. societies. States. No. Volumes. No. Volumes. No. Volumes. No. Volumes. No. Volumes. No. Volumes. No. Volumes. No. Volumes. ~~~~~~~~~~ Maine........ 1 9,000 2 6,370 2 16,800 6 13,134 2 10,800 1 300 17 452 31 56,856 New Hampshire. 1 4,700 9 13,878 1 6,400 5 16,200 7 10,700 2 2,800 25 2,500 50 57,178 Vermont..... 1 3,500... 3 13,032 6 8,667..............13 9,100 23 34,299 Massachusetts... 1 7,400 23 126,269 4 71,693 15 28,735 9 45,450 10 44,572 700 91,539 762 415,658 0 Rhode Island........... 5 25,104 1 24,000 2 7,600..2 3,000 35 19,637 45 79,341 Connecticut..... 1 3,000 3 14,234 3 29,138 7 38,666 3 6,300 1 7,000 1 300 19 98,638 r New York. 3 34,099 21 151,894 8 43,376 7 19,319 171 143,465 4 25,253 8,070 1,338,848 8 284 1,756,254 New Jersey... 1 5,000 3 4,300 3 18,000 2 7,000 1 9,000 1 825 6 *2,180 -17 46,305 ~ Pennsylvania... 1 10,000 16 125,385 10 37,875 12 29,350 7 38,300 5 38,478 29 *8,131 80 287,519 Delaware....... 1 4,000 1 4,000 1 2,500 6,200........5 16,700 Massachusetts... ~4,000 1 4,000.~ ~,...~:.................... 16,0 Maryland....... 1 15,000 9 32,156 6 25,592 4 1,700 3 3,150 1 1,500 722 *5,467 46 84,565 Dist. of Columbia 10 100,200 2 7,000 2 29,500 4 2,800...... 2 9,173..... 20 148,673 Virginia. 1 14,000 4 3,313 9 45,790 8 10,466 5 12,951 1 1,200 2 *1,460 30 89,180 North Carolina... 1 3,000....3 9,401 2 8,846 2 3,000........................8 24,247 South Carolina...................2 28 500 2 19,000 4 1900 5 10,264.1............. I *"250 14 59,914 Georgia...................... 1 6,510 5 15,637 4 4,685 2 5,000 1 2,000 11 *1,800 24 35.632 Florida.... 2 4,000 1 1,3379... 1 *200 4 5,537 Alabama................. 1 1,454 4 13,000.. 2: 2,623.............. 30 *1,000 37 18,077 Mississippi. 1 5,000........... 3 5,189 2 2,411........................... 102 *3,050 108 15,650 Louisiana..... 1 7,000 1 10,000 4 13,000........ 6 30,000 Texas..... 1. I 1,001.............. 1 300.........2 330 4 1,631 Arkansas............. 1..... 1,000.............................. 1 1,000 Tennessee. 1 8,000..... 9 20,84 8 1 35.. 1 *5,100 21 47,356 Kentucky. a1. 9,0001 10 37,150 10 7,190 3 4,000 1,500 I 1,100 27 6,3,440 KentuclryI I 14,1000 47 3,313/ Oihio. 1 1,500 8 21.295 13 35,510 19 20,20.5 3 1.,529 1 1 00 3,5 48.04,34 Michigan..... l 1 4,400 2 3,315 4 10,300......... 1 374 47,220 381 65,235 Indiana........ 1 7,000 4 10,700 6 17,300 4 4,800....... 200 1 40,000 Illinois.. 1 4,000 2 2.821 4 8,120 2 625 2 2,000.16 2,350 27 19,916 Iowa....... 1 2,500...................................................... 4 160 5 2,660 Wisconsin.......1,000 1,00.............................. 33 2,1 3 5 7,163 Minnesota....... 1 3,000 1 20Q0..................2 3,200 -[ _._._._.- --! ----- Total.... 39 288,937 126 611,334 126 586,912 142 254,639 227 320,909 1 34 138,901 9 1,552,332 10,199 3,753,964 * For the sums marked with an asterisk, I am indebted to the courtesy of Mr. Kennedy, superintendent of the 7th census. Much saluable information respecting public and private libraries will be furnished by the Census, when the returns are all,eceived and digested. ffa 192 Mis. No. 50. GENERAL SUMMARY. Whole number of Libraries, exclusive of those of the public schools 694 Aggregate number of volumes. 2,201,632 Whole number of Libraries containing, each, 1,000 volumes, and upwards - - 423 Aggregate number of volumes in these Libraries - - - 2,105,652 Average size - 4,977 Number of Libraries reported, containing less than 1,000 volumes, each - - 271 Aggregate number of volumes in these Libraries - - - 95,980 *Number of Libraries containing 1,000 volumes and upwards, and less than 5,000 - 198 Number of Libraries containing 5,000 volumes and upwards, and less than 10,000 175 Number of Libraries containing 10,000 volumes and upwards, and less than 20,000 - 43 Number of Libraries containing 20,000 volumes and upwards, and less than 50,000 - - - 11. There are but five Libraries containing, each, 50,000 volumes and upwards, Namely: - - Harvard University — Public Library - - 56,000 Law Library - 14,000 Theological Library - - 3,000 Medical Library - - - 1,200 Students' Libraries - - 10,000 84,200 The Philadelphia Library, (including the Loganian Library) - 60,000 Yale CollegeCollege Library - - 20,515 Medical Library - 900 Law Library - 1,900 Students' Libraries - 27,166 50,481 The Library of Congress - - 50,000 The Boston Athenaeum - - - - - 50,000 *In this statement, and in those which follow, the Libraries of societies of students and those of professional departments are counted with the Libraries of the Colleges or Seminaries with which they are connected. INDEX TO THE APPENDIX. Page. Abbot, Ezra;.. 34 Adamson, Rt...................................................... 112 Alabama, libratics in....159............................................... Albany, N. Y.................................................. 73 Albion, Mich.... 183 Alden, Rev. Timothy.. 26, 93, 111 Alexander, Rev. A.... 107 Alleghany city, Pa............................................... 107 Alleghany College, Meadville, Pa..........i.l.l.... 111 Alpha Delta Phi Society, Harvard University.... 35 American Academy of Arts and Sciences, Boston....4............... 4 American Academy of Natural Sciences, Philadelphia........... 123 American and Foreign Bible Society, N. Y.... 97 Amfer'can Antiquarian Society, Worcester, Mass. 43 American Baptist Publication Ssciety, Philadelphia. Pa.... 129 American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions, Boston.. 28 American Ethnological Society, New York city................ 9.7 American Imntitute, N. Y.............. 95,-...,....... 95 American Oriental Society, Boston......................... 29 American Philosophical Society, Philadelphia.... 122 American Statistical Association., Boston.................... 29 Amherst, Mass....................................1............ 17 Annapolis, Md......... 132 Ann Arbor, Mich...................................... 183 Anderson, Prof. M. B............................................. 10 Andover, Mass.......................................... 18 Appleton, Samuel.................................................. 14 Apprentices' Library Company, Philadelphia.......... 124 Apprentices' Library, Charleston, S. C......... 154 Apprentices' Library, Cincinnati, Ohio.... 170 Apprentices' Library, New York, N. Y.......... Archives, preserv tion of............. 1 Arkansas, libraries in the State... **...168. Assembly Library, Albany, N. Y.... 77; Astor, J. J..... 89: Astor Library, N. Y... 88 Athenmum Society, Bowdoin Collee, Brunswick, Me....... 8, Athenmeum Library, Chester, Pa............ 108 Athenreum Library, Nantucket, Mass.................................. 38 Athenreuum Library, Philadelphia....... 1 25 Athenaeum Library, Portland, Me........................................ 8 Athenimumr Library, Portsmouth, N. H..... 14 Athenmum Library, Providence, R. I..... 60 Athenurum Library, Rochester, N. Y..... 98 Athenaunm Library, Roxbury, Mass................................. 38 Athenaeurn Library, Salem, Mass......... 39 Athens,............................... 156 Athens, Ohio................................................................ 168 Auburn, N. Y..........................................., ". 79 Augusta, Ga..... 157 Augusta, Ky., College Libraries.........................................165 Augusta, Me................. 6 Austin, Texas..................... 162..................... i62 Ayrault, Stephen..... 51 Backus, Rev. Isaac.... 55, 6l Bacon College, Hlarrodsburg,.Ky..... 167 Bacon, John, M. D...... 24 Bailey, Rev. Silas................................ 172 Baker, Prof. OsmanC....................................... 11 Baldwin, Christopher. C.. 0........ 46 Baldy, Peter.......................................9.................... 109 Baltimore, Md..........133' 13 194 INDEL6 Page. Bangor, M e 7.......................................... 7 Bardstown, Ky. 165 Barnard, Henry.... 2, 67 Barnes, Phineas........................................................... 10 Bartlett, John R........................................................... 3, 97 Bartlett, Hon. Win......................................................... 11 Bascomn H. B.......................................................... 167 Baton Rouge, La........................................ 161 Baylor University, Independence, Texas........... 163 Beard, Richard.... 168 Beecher, Dr. Lyman................................................... 82 Belknap, Jeremy..... 12, 26 Belknap,Jolm........................... 12 Beloit, Wis...... 186 Bernhisel, Dr.............. 187 Beneficent Library, Middlebury, Vt....................................... 16 Bentley, Rev. Win, D D..... 44, l1l Benton, Thomas H., jr..... 186 Berkeley, Bishop..... 49, 70 Berryville, Va..... 142 Bethany, Va...............................................142 Bigelow, John P... 48 Blackstock, James.....68 Blendon, Franklin county, Ohio............ 168 Bliss, Prof. Geo. R....................................................... 111 Bloomington, Ind............................................. 175 Bonnell, Rev. J. M..... 158 Boston, Mass...... 19, 31 ~Bours. John..... 51 Bowditch, Nathaniel, L. L. D............................................. 40 Bowditch Library, Boston............................................2..... 0 Bowdoin College, Brunswick, Me....... 7 Bowen, Horatio Gates..... 56 Boydtown, Mecklenburg county, Va.......... 143 Breintnall, Joseph.....O 113 Bringiers, La..... 162 Bristowe,, Rev. Dr.....O 93 BrOokfield, N.H..... 15 Brooklyn, N. Y...................................... 7!1 Brooks, Henry M... 41 Brougham, Lord.............................................. 27 Brown, G. L.....O 160 Brown, John.......O 54 Brown, John Carter. 58 Brown, Nicholas........................................... 54, 55, 57, 58 Brownne, Robert H............................................... 97 Brown University, Providence, R. I..... 53, 60 Brunswick, Me....... 7 Brunswick county, Va.............................................. 143 Buffalo, N. Y...................................................O 81 Bulfinch, George S................................................. 23 Burlington, Iowa..... 185 Burlington, N. J..... 105 Burlington, Vt........... 16 Butterfield, Wm..... 8 Caire, Paul..... 162 Calhour, Rev. P...... 144 California....... 187 Cambridge, Mass................................................... 31 Cambridgeport, Mass................................................. 36 Canonsburg, Pa...........108 Cape Girardeau, Mo............ 10 Carlisle, Pa.............................................. 108 Carlisle, Rev. Thomas... 56 Caroline county, Va............................................. 143 Carpenter, Cornelius N........................................................ 17. Causten, Dr. Jamnes H., jr......... 142 Cavileer, Charles........................................................ 187 Central College, Blendon, Ohio..... 168'Central Lodge Library, Spring Arbor, Mich..... 184 INDEX. 195 Page. Centre College, Danville, KY............... 166'Chamberlain. Jo hn.................*.......... 161 Champlin, Christopher G......................... 53 ~Channing,'Wm. E..... 5! Chapel Hill, N. C............................ 148'Chapman, Israel.......................................... 49 Chapman, Thomas......................................................... 68'Charleston, S. C.......................................................... 149 Charlottesville, Va..... 143 Checkley, Thomas.......................................... 129 Cheeseborough, David........................................ 5 Chester, Pa...................... 108 Chestertown, Md............................................................ 137 ~Chicago................................................................ 177 Cincinnati., Ohio...................................... 169 City Library, Brooklyn, N. Y..................................... 79 City School Library, Lowell, Mass.37 Claiborne Co., Miss............................................ 161 Clark, Jos.. M... 83'Cleveland, Ohio............................................................ 171 Clinton, N. Y................................................................ 82 Cobb, David F............................................................... 174 Cod man, John............................. 18 Coffin, J. N........................... 109 Coffin, William............................................................ 178 Cogswell, J. G............................................. 92 Cole, Thomas...I.40'College of New Jersey.......................................... 106 College of Charleston., Charleston, S. C............... 154 College of Physicians and Surgeons, in the city of New York.... I........... 97 College of St. Thomas of Villanova, Philadelphia....... 129 College of the Holy C'oss, Worcester, Mass................................... 47 Collins, Henry...................................... 49 Colman, Henry........................................ 41 Columbia, Ms............................................... 181 Columbia, S. C................................................~.......... 155 Columbia, Tenn............................................................ 163 Columbia College, New k city.............................93 Columbia College, Washkigton, D. C..................1...... 40 Columbus, 0............................................................... 171 Concord, N. 1H.............................................................. 11 Conference Seminary, N. H.......................................... 14 Connecticut.................................................................. 64 Connelly, H.. I................. 84 Copyright books, State Department, Washington, D........................... 140 Corbet, J. A........................................... 175 Courtis, Ambrose S....................................................... 29'Courtney, Thomas......................................................... 157 Court of Appeals, Rochester, N. Y.................................. 98 Covington, Ky.............................................................. 166 Crafts, Mr................................................................. 38 Craig, John S.............................................................. 164 Crawfordsville, Ind............................................ 175 Crocker, Mrs. Hannah Mather................................. 44, 47 Cross, Prof. N.............................................................. 165 Cumberland College, Princeton, Ky........................................... 168 Cumberland University, Lebanon, Tenn..................... 164 Cummings, A. W........................................................ 178 Curtis, William P.................................................. 183 Danville, Ky.............................................................. 166 Darlington, William... 131 Dartmouth College, Hanover, N. H..13 Davies, Charles S........................... 10 Davenport, Iowa........................................................ 185 Davidson College, Mecklenburg county, N. C......................... 149 Davisj Ira................................................. 17 Day, Henry N..................................................... 172 Deane, Samuel.............................. 10 DeBleeck, J........................................................ 170 Delaplaine, Geo. P..a.. 186 196 INDEX. Page. D e la w a re............... 1................ 131 Delaware College, Del........................... Dslawware, Ohio................................................ 171 Demilt, Miss Elizabeth....................................................... $6, 93 Dernosthenean Society, New Ipswich, N.. H..... 14 Denniston, Arexander......................................... 170 Detroit, h...... 183 Dickinson College, Carlisle, Pa....... 10o Dillaway, Charles K................................................ 9[~ Dillon, John B............ 17t5 District of Columbia..................... District Schcol libraries, ai...... 10 Dobson Judh ib................................................. 12~9 Dodge, H.......................................... 96 DOty, Edward.M...... 174 Dover, Del............................................................. 131 Downing, Charles W...... 160 Drury, A-.. 15~ Duane, William.......................................... Dublin, N. H i...................................... 12 Dugas, L. A.....................................7........ 157 Duncan, Alexander....................................... 61 Dunscorob, William E O........................................... 181 Dussaulx, E k................................................... 177 East Hampton, N. Y2..85 East India Marine Society, Salem, Mass....................................... 41 Easton, Penn.............................................................. 109 Easton, Jonathan.... 51 East Tennessee University, Knoxville, Ten..163 East Windsor, Ct.. 64 Ebenezer Academy, Va.................................................... 143 Edwards, Morgan................ 54 Ellery, Christopher. 51 Elliott. Rev. David, D. D.................................................. 108 Elton, Romeo.............................................................. 56 Emerson, Brown......................................................... 41 Emmetsburg, Md....... 1:3;7 Emory, V" ashin ton county, Va......................................... 144 Emory and Henry College...... 144 Emory College, Oxford, Ga......................................... 158 Endicott, Charles M..... 41 Engineer Dpoartmen{ Library, Washington, D.C....................C..... 141 English Hfigh School, Andover, Mass...... 19 Episcopal Theological Seminary of Viriinia, Fairfax county... 144 E, rie, Pa............................................ 109 Essex Agricultural Society, Salem, Mass.................................... 41 Essex Institute, Salem, Mass..... 40 Essex Soulhern District Medical Society, Salem, Mass..... 41 Estell, Wilhi....... 154 Evansville, Ind........................................................... 175 Everett, E dward........................................................... 48 Exeter, iN. H..........................................~........... IH2 Fairfax conty, Va..... 144 Fairfax district, S: C...................................................... 156 Fallsington, Bucks county, Pa............................................... 109 Farmner, john.......................... Fayette Academy, N. C........ 149 Fayette, 55o..... 181 Feller, M.....~.................................3........................... 133 Felt, Josep h B........~26 Female! -;~'itute, Columbia, Tern........................................ 163 Finley, illiam P......... 154 Finney. J.,........................................... 130 Finotd, J......... 138 Fisher, John................................................... 15 Fisher, Maturin L......................................... 46 Florida................ 160 Flusling, I Y.............. 8 Folsom, Chales.............................. Forbes, P... 88 INDEX. 197 Page. Fordham, N. Y................. $~ Forest Club, Houlton, Me........................................... 8 Forrest, Rev. R......,$4 Foster, Theodore.....(it Foster, Thomas Gales... 169 Frankfort, Ky.......... 1 Franklin, Benj...............................................1............ 114 Franklin College, Athens, Ga......... 156 Franlklin College, Franklin, Ind............................................... 15 Franklin College, Lancaster, Pa......... Franklin College, New Athens, Ohio.........................:................... 173 Franklin College, Nashville, Tenn........................ 165 Franklin Institute, Philadelphia, Pa......... 1 Franklin Library, Hudson, N. Y............................................ 84 Franklin Library, Lawrence, Mass.-''7 Franklin Society, Mobile, Ala.................................. 159 Franklin Society, Providence, R. I..... Franklin Society, grown University, Providence, f. I.......6 Free Academy of Ngw York city....................................... 97 Freis, AndrE....................................... 1 French, Ezra B..... 7 Friendly Association of Upper Middletown, Conn..... (8 Friends' Boarding School, Providence, R. I..... 61 Friends' Library of the Four Monthly Meetings, Philadelphia.................... 129 Frost, Reverend A............. 105 Furman, Richard..... 160 Furman Theological Seminary, S.........................................C... 156 Galesburg, Ill......... 178 Gambier, Ohio......171 Gardner, Francis........................................................ 29 Geiger, H. K.. a....... 174 Geneva, N. Y..... 83 Georgetown, D. C..... 138 Georgetown, Ky..................................................... 166 Georgia............................................................... 156 German Library of St. Clair county, II..................... 17.9 German Society Library,. Philadelphia.... 1'28 Gettysburg, Pa...... 109 Gibbs, J. W..... 18 Gibbs, Miss Sarah............................. C2 Gibbs, William............................. Gfger, G. M..... 106 Gilmanton, N. H.................................I........... 12 Gilpin, Joseph............................................................... I37 Girsch, Caspar...................-.......................... 183 Godfrey, Ill........178 Godfrey, Ill..........................................................18 Goodrich, Rev. Dr....................................................... 1!t Goodwin, Daniel R....................................................... 8 Gould, Dr. A. A........................................................'22 Gould, Robert S..... 160 Graham, Samuel S................................................ 45 Grant, S. Hastings..... 84. Granville, Ohio..... 172 Great Falls, N. H.............. 12 Greencastle, Ind.......................................... 176 Greene, Simon E......................................... 29 Green, James........................................... 134 Green, Samuel............................................................. 49 Greenville, Tenn......................... 163 Greenwood, Abbeville district, S. C........................................ 156 Greetham, William D........................................................ 132 Greiner, John........................................................ 171 Groton, Mass.............................................................. 36 Guild, Reuben A.........60 Guthrie, Samuel.........................3................2....... 32 Hagerstown, Md..... 137 Hamilton, N. Y..... 83 Hamilton College, Clinton, N. Y..... 82 Hamilton, P........ 159 Hampden Sidney College, Prince Edward county, Va...... 145 198 INDEX. Page. Hanovor, N. H......................................................... 1.~ Hanover College, South Hanover, Ind...... 176 Harlan, R. D...... 16t Harmon, N. W...... 37 Harris, J. Morrison......................................................... 135, Harris, Thaddeus William.......34 Harrisburg, Pa...... 110 Harrison, Joseph............................................ 49 Harrodsbure, Ky.,..... 167 Hart, William D................... 107 Hartford, Conn............................................................ 64 Hartwick, N. Y.......................... 83. Harvard College, Cambridge, Mass......................... 31 Hasty Pudding:Club, Harvard University........................... 35 Hatborough, Pa............................................................ 110 Haven, Horace Appleton...................... 15 Haven, Samuel F................. 43, 46 Hazelius, Ernest...................................................... 15t Henderson, J. S......................... 168 Henry, Edward.................. 96 Herrnman, Society, Harvard University..................... 35 Herrick, Edward C......................................................... 71 Hillsborough, Ohio......................................................... 172 Hinman, C. T...................................................... 183, Historical and Antiquarian Society of Vermont, Montpelier, Vt... 17 Historical and Philosophical Society of Missouri..................... 181 Historical Society of Georgia, Savannah, Ga... 158 Historical Society of Connecticut.................................. 67 Historical Societyof Maine................................................. Historical and Philosophical Society of Ohio......................... 170 Historical Society of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia... 129 Historical Society of the county of Vigo, Ind...177 Hodge's Institute, Greenwood, S. C............ 156 Hoge, W. J.... 168 Holl1is, Thomas...31 1-to il Th mas, R............................................................... 3B1 -Holmes, R. S.......... 181 HOtttinguer, Baron............. 53 Houlton, Me............................................................... 8 Howard College, Marion Ala............................................... 15a Howard High School,Mo........................ 181 HO ward, Issachar........... 156 Howe, George................................................ 156 Howell, Robert H....................................................... ES Hubbard, Josiah... 37 Hudson, N. Y............................................ 84 Hudson, Ohio.... 17'7 Huidekoper, FF 112 Hulse, Isaac......... 160 Humphrey, T. J..... 145 Huntsville, Texas................................................. 6' ~ Illinois................................................................ 177 Illinois College Library, Jacksonville, Ill......... 178 IndependenCe, Texas...163 Indepndnc eas.............................................................. 163 IndianapMedical College.......................................... Ingle, John...................................................... 175 Insects injurious to books....... 71, 154, 1.55 Institute of 1770, Harvard University........................... 35 Iow a........................................................................ Iowa city................................. 185 Iowa II.storical and Geological Institute.................. 185 Irving Literary Institute, Erie, Pa........... 109 Ives, Mrs. Hope........................................................ 55 Jackson College, Columbia, Tenn........................................... 163 Jackson, Charles T.... 26 Jackson, James........................................................... 157 Jackson, Miss................................... 160 Jackson, Ten n.......... 163 INDEX. 199 Page. Jacksonville, Ill..........- ***................ *............... 178 Jeffrey, George............................................................. 15 Jefferson Apprentices' Library, Washington, D. C.............................. 142 Jefferson city, Mo............ 181 Jefferson College, Bringiers, Miss............................................. 162 Jefferson College, Canonsburg, Pa............................................ 108 Jewett, Charles C........... 141 Johnston, James...................... 110 Johnston, Robert......................................................... 52 Johnston, William...................................1............ 67 Jones, Sylvanus.......................................................... 82 Jonestown, Pa.............................110 Judicial Library, St. Augustine, Fla......................................... 160 Juliana Lierary, Lancaster, Pa............... 111 Juvenile Library, Dublin, N. H................................................ 12 Kearon, Robert....... 139 Kendall, G. Williams..................................................... 170 Kendrick, A. C......... 83 Kent, Benjamin............................................................ 39 Kent, Chancellor...........................................................51 Kentucky............ 165 Kentucky Historical Society................................................. 167 Kenyon College, Gambier, Ohio.......... 171 *Kiernan, Thomas................................................... 34 Kimball Union Academy, Meriden village, N. H................................. 13 King, Charles B............, 51 53 King's Chapel Library, Boston, Mass...... 20 Kirwan, Richard.......................... 39 Knox Manual Labor College, Galesburg, Ill.............................. 178 Knoxville, Tenn.............................. 163 Kuhn, J. S............... 178 Ladd, William........... 8 Ladies' Library, Dublin, N. H.....12 Ladies' Library, Dublin, N. [ —I............................................ 12 Lafayette College, Easton, Pa............................................ 109 La Grange, Ala.............................. 159 Laneaster, Pa............................................................. 111 Lane Seminary at Walnut Hills, near CincOinati, Ohio........................... 16 Lanman, Charles........................................................... 140 Lmasnsing, Mich............................................................. 184 Laporte, Ind............... 176 Law Association of Philadelphia................................... 127 Law Institute, New York, N.Y....................................... 95 Law Library, Baltimore, Md....................................... 136 Law Library, Harvard University.............................................. 35 Law Library, St. Louis, Mo.................................. 183 Lawrence, Mass......................................................... 37 Lawrence Academy, Groton, Mass....................... 36 Lawrence, Amos................................ 3, 41 Lawsing, A. F......... 78 Lea, Albert Miller...................................................164 Lebanon, Ill............................................................. 178 Lebanon, Tenn............................................................ 64 Legonais, I......... 83 Lenox, James..................................... 93 Leonard, L.:W............................................................. 12 Letherbury, Samuel C................................... 131 Leverett, Washington........................................................ 12 Lewisbur, Pa...1 LewKisbug, Pa.,,,........................................................... 1 Lexington, Ky.............................................................. 167 Lexington, Va. 144 Lexington Court I-House, S. C............................................... 156 Liddle, William F............................ 98 Lindsay, John W................................. 6 Literary Adelphi, New Hamrpton, N.H. I..................................... 14 Literary and Scientific Club, Tu'scumbia, Ala.................................. 159 Literary Association, Parkersburg, Va........................................ 145 Literary Society, Romney, Va............................ 147 Little Rock, Ark.......................... 163 Livermore, Samuel...................................................... 36, Lockwood, Dr. S. L...................... 154 200 INDEX. Page. Logan, W illiam........................................................... 150 Loganian Library, Philadelphia......................................... 19'2 Logansport, Inmd...... 176 Longley, E...... 144 Louisiana...... 161 Louisiana College, Jackson, La...... 162 Louisville, Ky...... 167 Lowell, Mass.,...... 37 Lucky, W. T........... I....... 181 Ludewig,, Hermann E........... Luzen, J. P. O...... 129 Lyceum Library, Little Rock, Ark..... 163 Lyceum Library, Orange, N. Y................................................ Lyceum Library, Worcester, Mass............................... Lyceum of Literature, Science, and Mlechanic Arts, Poughkeepsie, N. Y.......... Lyceum of Natural History, N. Y.... 97 Lyceum of Natural His tory, Troy, N. Y...................................... 99 McCabe, Prof.................................................. 171 McConnell, Samuel H...... 162 McDowell, Dr....... 129 McKendree College, Lebanon, Ill...................................... 178 McKenzie, John............................ 151 McMaster, F. W.......................................................... 155 Macon, Ga.....................................1..................57. Madison, Wisconsin............... 186 Madison Court House, Va................... 146 Madison University, Hamilton, N.- Y...,..................................... 83: Mahan, Asa...... 171 Maine...... 6,10 Maine Historical Society........ 8 Malbone, John...... 5.1 Manning, James................................................... 54 Manton, Amasa........................................................... 62 Manufacturers' and Village Library, Great Falls, N. H.......... 12 Marchant, Honry................. 51 Marietta, Ohio.... 172 Mariner, William..... 164 Marion, Ala........... 159 Marion County, Ky...... 168 Marsh, George P.... I. Marshall College, Mercersburg, Pa..................................... 112 Marshall, J. U[............................................................. 108 Marshall, Mrs. Lucy................... 112 Maryland......2.................................................... 132 Maryland Historical Society...... 134 Maryville, Ten...... 164 Masonic College, Palmyra, Mo............................................ 182 Massachusetts............. 17 Massachusetts Historical Society, Boston, Mass... 26 Mather, Cotton...... 46, 47 Mather Library...... 46 M ayer, Francis B......................................................... 135 Maxwell, William...................................................... 147 Meadville, Penn............. 11 Means, James...... 37 Meany, E. J...... 148 Mechanics' Apprentices' Library, Boston, Mass.............................. 27 Mechanics' Association, Providence, R. I...... 61 Mechanics' Institute, Baltimore, Md.......................................... 136 Mechanics' Institute, Lancaster, Pa.....1..... 1l Mechanics' Institute, New York, N. Y....................................... 96 Mechanics' Instittqte, Salem, Mass..... 41 Mechanics' Institute, Worcester, Mass...................................... 48 Mechanics' Library, Newport, R. I...... 53 Mecklenburg Co., Va....................................................... 149 Medical College of Georgia...... 157 Medical College of Ohio................................................. 170 Medical College of South Carolina.......................... 154 Medical College, Harvard University......36 Medico Chirurgical Society, Baltimore, Md..136..... I.... 1 INDEX. 201 Page. Maehan, John. S................................ 139 IMeehan, C. H. W....................................................... 139 Melville, Thomas................................................... 49 Mercantile Library Association, New York.... 84 Mercantile Library Association, St. Louis............ 183 Mercantile Library, Baltimore...................................... 26 Mercantile Library, Philadelphia..... 1.2.3 Mercersburg, Penn..... 112 Mercer University, Ga........................,... 158 Meriden Village, Plainfield, N. H............................. 13 Merrill, James................. 9 Methodist General Biblical Institute, Concord, N. tt...... 11 Mianii University, Oxford, Ohio........................................ 173 Michaux, Andre................................................... 153 Michigan.............................................................. Middlebury, V[...., 1~6 M iddleburv V............................................... Middlesex Mechanics' Association, Lowell, Mass.................. 37 Middletown, Ct.................. 68 Military Libraries, U. $. A................................ 187 Milledgeville, Ga.................................... 157 Millington, Rev. Ur............. 87 Mills, C2aleb....................................... 175 Minnesota................................................................. 187 Mission School Library, Valle Crucis, N. C................................... 149 Mississippi..... 160 Missouri..... 10......... Mitchell, William.................................................. 38 Mobile, Ala............... 159 Moffat, James C...........174 Monroe county, Ind..... 175 Monroe, Mich........................................... 184 Monterey, California.......... 187 Morftgomery County Library Association, Rockville, Md........... 137 Monticello Female Seminary, Ill........................... 177 Montpelier, Vt.................................................. 17 Moore, Jacob B..... 11, 93 Morton, Joseph.. M ortonJose ph.......................................................... Mount St. Mary's College, Emmetsburg, Md.............................. Mount Vernen Society, Chestertown, Md....................................... 137 Murfreesborough, Tenn........ 164 Murray, Joseph............................... 93 Nantucket, Mass............................................ 38 Nashville, Tenn........................................ 164 National Institute, Washington, D............................ 142 Natural History Society, Harvard University... 35 Naval Hospital, Pensacola, Fla... 160 Navy Department Library, Washington, D. C.............................. 140 Nevin, John W., D. D...................................... 112 Newark, Del...132...................................... 132 Newark, N. J.... -105 l~~ewark, N.................................................. oo.......... 0 New Athens, Ohio.............. 173 New Brunswick, N. J............ 106 Newbury, N. Y....................................... 84 New Castle, Del. A....................................""............. " 132 New England Genealogical Association, Boston................................. 29 New Hampshire........................................................... 11, 15 New Hampshire Conference Seminary, Northfield, N. 11....................,. 14 New Hampshire Historical Society, Contord, N. H.......... 11 New Hampton, N. H.......................... 14 New Haven, Ct............................................ 70 New Ipswich, N. H.................................................. 14 New Jersey............................................................. 105 New Jerse~ Historical Society, Newark, N. J..........................:Newkirk, J. C....... o....................,._................................ New Mexico.............................................. 187 New Orleans, La............................................... 162 Newport,Rf.LI.......48:Newprt, R I....................................................4 Newton, Mass..38 New York State..................... 73 New York Academy libraries.............................. 100 202 INDEX. Pame. New York city....................................................... 84. New York Historical Society.... 92 New York Hospital.....O 94 New ork tate Agriultual Society........................................7 New Yorki State Agricultura Soit..79 Nichols, W........................................................... 53 Norristown, Pa.....112 North Bend, Incd....... 177 North Carolina......................................................... 148 Northern Academy of Arts and Sciences, Hanover, N. H....................... 13 Northfield, N. H....................................................... 14 Northumberland county, Va..................................... 145 Norwich, Vt.... 17 Oakes, Abner..............................................................O 7 Oakland College, Claiborne county, Miss...................................... 161 Oakland Female Seminary, Hillsborough, Ohio................................ 172 Oberlin, Oh~io.......173 Oberlin, Ohi o ~ ~ ~...................................O............. 7 Observatory Library, Washington, D. C.................. C.................... 142 O'Callaghan, J... 47 Odd Fellows' Library, Baltimore............................................ 136 Ogilvie, James............................................................O 52 OglethorpeIUniversity, Milledgeville, Ga....................................... 157 Ohio.................O 168 Ohio Mechanics' Institute, Cincinnati, Ohio...................................O 170 Ohio Wesleyan University, Delaware, Ohio...................................O 171 Old Colony Pilgrim Society, Plymouth, Mass.................................. 38 Orange, N. J............... 106 Oregon...... 187 Orphan Asylum, Cincinnati, Ohio........................................... 170 Osgood, Samuel........................................... 59 Oxford, Ga................................................................ 158 Oxford, Lafayette county, Miss............................................. 161 Oxford, Ohio................................. 173 Packard, Alpheus -S.... 8 Pa c krApesS................................................. 144 Packard, Prof.... 144 Palmyra, Mo.-......1........................... 82 Parish Library, Cambridgeport, Mass..................................... 36 Parker, Nancy F............................................................ 179. Parkersburg a..................... 145 Patent Office, Washington, D. C............................................. 140 Patterson, Lemuel B........................................................ 186 Patton, John V.................................................. 161 Peabody, Nathaniel.......................................................... 11 Peace Society, Bowdoin College, Brunswick, Me............................... 8 Pearson, Jonathan......................................................... 99 Pease, Calvin.-....16 Peas, Clvi.........................................................:.. 1 Peirson, Edward B............. 41 Pennfield, G................................. 158 Pennington, Samuel H...................................................... 105 Pennsylvania............................................................... 107 Pennsylvania College, Gettysburg, Pa...109 Pen-nsylvania Hospital, Philadelphia, Pa...................................1.... 126 Pensacola, Fla...................................................... 160 Peucinian Society, Bowdoin College, Brunswick, Me........................... 8 Phi Beta Kappa Society, Harvard University.................................. 35 Philadelphia, Pa....................................................... 112 Philadeluhia Library............................... 122 Philadelphian Society, Kimball Union Academy, N. H...... 14 Philadelphian Society, Middlebury College, Middlebery, Vt..................... 16 Philermenian Society, Brown University.... 60 Phillips Academy, Andover, Mass.... 19 Philip Acdem, xetr,.H............................................ 1 Phillips Academy, Exeter, N. H...12 Philologian Society, Williams College......... 42 Philomathean Library, Trenton, N. J............. 107 Philomathesian Society, Middlebury College................................... 16 jlhilophysian Sciety, Brown*University-........................................ 56 Philosophical Library, Salem, Mass...........................'39 Philotechnian Society, Williams College... 42 Pickering, John..................59 Pickering, Hon). T.......................4.................... 4q1 Pickett, J. D.......... 142 INDEX. 203 Page. Pittsburg, Pa.......................................................... 130 Plumer, William...................................................1 Plymouth, Mass. 8 Pomroy, Rev. S. L...28 Pond, Enoch......................................................... 7 Porcellian Club, Harvard University...................................... 35 Porter Rhetorical Society, Andover, Mass.. 18 Portland, Maine.......... Portsmouth, N. H.. 14 Portsmouth, R. I. 62 Poughkeepsie, N. Y...................................................... 98 Prescott, General........................................................... 51 Prince, Rev. Thomas................. 30 Prince Edward county, Va............................. 445 Prince Library, Boston... 30 Piinceton, N. J.... 106 Princeton, Caldwell county, Ky........................................ 168 Printers' Reading-room and Library, New York city............................ 96 Proctor, Johhn W.... 41 Providence, R.. 53,,W Pruntytown, Taylor county, Va..........146 Public-definition of theword in connexion with libraries............. 4 Pdblic School Library, New Orleans...162 Rahleigh, N. C... 149 Ramsey, Alexander............. 187 Ramsey, W. B. A............ 164 Randolph Macon College, near Boydtown Va. 143 Ranney, Martin..... 69 Rappahannock Academy,~ Va............ Ravenhill, Lefroy.;..................................................... 94 Rector College, Pruntytown, Va................ 141 Redfield, William C....69 Redfield, William C.:.....................'.,~~.................................. 6,Redwood, &braham.......49, 51,,53 Redwood Library, Newport, Mass 489......................................... 48,49 Reed, William B.. J30 Rhode Island.-. 48 Rhode Island Historical Society......... 61 Richards, C. S....... I... 14 Richards, William.....55 Richardson, Jacob........... 51 Richardson, Wilson G'.... 150 Richat'dson, W. 11.. 146 Richmond, Va.. 146 Ridgely, Dtvid........................................................ 132 Robbins, Asher...... 54 Robbins, R.D. C.......................................................... 16 Robbins, Thomas.................................................... 67 Robie, Edward.. 18 Robinson, Edward.. 93 Rochester N. Y..................................................... 98 Rockville, Md........... 137 Roes, John........................................................ 166 Rogers, S. S.................................................................S 137 Romney, Va.............................. 147 Rorer, David......................................... 186 Roxbury, M ass............................................................ 38 Rumford Society, Harvard University. 35 Rust, Lucian. 1;9 Rutgers College, Brunswick, N. J 106 Ryland, Robert. 147 Saeltzer, Alexander.. 92: Sage, Silas....... I..... 69. Sager, Abram. 183 St. Anthony Fall, Minnesota..... 187 St. August ie,P lorida........................... 160 St. Charles College, Palmyra, Mo....... I..182 St Clair c Sunty, I....... 17-D St. James College; Hagerstown, Md.......................................... 137 S(. John's Church, Portsmouth, N. H................ 15 St. John's College and St. Joseph's Seminary, Fordham, N. Y............... 821 204 iNDEX. Page. St. John's College, Annapolis, Md.................d...d.d.d.d.d.d.d.d. I.. 132 St. Joseph's College, Bardstown, Ky.............................165 St. Louis,LMe............................................................ 183 St. Mary's College, Baltimore, Md... 133 St. Mary's College, Marion county, Ky...............................168...... St. Mary's College, Cape Girardeau, Mo.. 180 St. Mary's Library, North Bend, Ind............. 177 St. Paul, Minnesota........... 187 St. Paul's College, Flushing, N. Y.82 St Philip's College, Detroit, Mich......................................183 St. Xavier College, Cincinnati, Ohio..............!9 Salem, Mass................................................................39 Salem, N. C.149 Sanbornton Bridge, N..... H.B Sandy Spring Library Company, Rockville, Md.137 Sanford, Lewis H96~ Sanford, Lewis H ~~~.................................................9 Sanford, S. P..P.........1............5.................................... 158 Sargent, Phines.81 Saivage, C. C...............................97 Savannah, Ga....... 458 Savam, mh, Ga..........................................................'5 Sawyer, William, jr............................15....................... 15 Schenectady, N.Y................. 98 Schmucker, S. S........1...............10.................................. School Libraries, Maine....... 10 School Libraries, N....................................... School Libraries, Mass.. 48 School Libraries, R. L..6...................................................2 School Libraries, N. YT... 100 Schol LbraresMas.................................................... Schopl Libraries, Mich..185..................... *~~~.................. Schrtt, Anthony..... 179 Schweinitz, E. A. de.............................................. 9 Sears, Barnes............................2........6........................ Sears, D av id............................................................. 17 Siarp, Granville........................................................... Shaw, S. C........................................................... 145 Sheafe, James Edward................................................. 15 Shelby College, Shelbyville, Ky................................... 168 Sherman, Joseph..13........ 1 Sherman, S.5.'...159 Shottun, John.............. 136 Shurtleff College, Upper Alton, Ill...................................1.... 80 Sibley, John L............ 34 Sigourney Library, Logansport, Ind................................... 176 Smead, M. J.............................................................. 148 G................. ~~~~~~~~145 Smith, F. G.....................................l3...................... Smiith, Francis H...... SffliT~~~.h J n..................................... I................ 14~ Smith, JohnJ.......................................................... 112 Smith, J. Spain....................... 3~ Smith, Thomas.................10........................... 179 Smith, Thomas L................................ 0........... Smith, William......... Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D. C....... 141 Snell, E. 5 7........................... 147 Social Fraternity, New Hampton; N. H......................14 Social Friends, Dartmouth Cqllege... Social Law Library; Boston... 29 Social Library, Salem, Mass..39 Social Libraries, Mass.......................................48............. Somers, N. Y.................................................... Soull, Gideon. L..12 149 South Carolina.......................149 South Carolina College, Columbia, S. C.................. 155 South Hanover, Ind............................1...........76 Southwick, R. C......................................................... 98 Southwick, Solomon.......................................................5 Spooner, Wing............................................................. Spring Arbor, Mich.. 184 Springfield, Ill............................178 Springfield, Ohio... 174 Spring Hill, Ala..... 159 INDEX. 205 Page. State Department, Washington, D C.....................C.... 139 State Normal School, New York..... 78 State Library of Maine, Augusta...................................... State Library o? New Hampshire, Concord..... 11 State Library of Vermont, Montpelier....................................... 17 State Library of Massachusetts, Boston..... 24 State Library of Connecticut, Hartford....................................... 67 State Library of New York, Albany, N. Y............................ 73 State Library of New Jersey, Trenton..... 107 State Library of Pennsylvania, Harrisburg..... 110 State Library and Law Library of Delaware, Dover.... 131 State Library of Maryland, Annapolis..... 132 State Library of Virginia, Richmond..... 146 State Library of North Carolina, Raleigh.... 149 State Library of Florida, Tallahassee..... 160 State Library of Mississippi, Jackson................................... 160 State Library of Louisiana, Baton Rouge...... 161 State Library of Texas, Austin............................................ 162 State Library of Tennessee, Nashville..... 164 State Library of Kentucky,'Frankfort..... 166 State Library of Ohio, Columbus........................*.................... 171 State Library of Indiana, Indianapolis.................. 176 State Library of Illinois, Springfield.....178 State Library of Missouri, Jefferson City........................... 181 State Library of Michigan, Lansing..... 184 State Library of'Iowa, Iowa City'............................ 185 State Library of W isconsin, Madison....186 Stelle, E. B......................................... 139 Stetson, John............................ 26 Stevens, Henry, sen............................................. 17 Stevens, Henry, jr....... 21 Stevens, Robert....... 51 Stiles, Ezra................................... 50, 51 Stockton, L. R. P...... 98 Stoever, M. L....... 110 Stowe, C. E.............................................. 169 Street, Alfred B 17 Steubenville, Ohio........................................................... 174 Summerfield, John...... 68 Sumner, Charles................................................. 36 Sumner, John S....... 133 Swan, C............... 98 Swann, Richard....... 132 Swatara:'Literary Association, Jonestown, Pa........................... 110 Tallalassee, Fla........................................................ 160 Tatlock, John...................................... 492 Taylor A. D.... K'. 178 TaloA........................................................ 1 7 Taylor John............... 143 Taylor, 0!iver A..............1............................................ 18 Tennessee................................................... 163 Territorial Library, Minnesota................................................ 187 Texas 1................................................................... 162 Theological Society, Bowdoin College, Me................... 8 Theological Seminary, at Bangor, Me......... 7 Theoloical Seminary, Newi Hampton, N. H........................... 14 Theological Seminary, Gilmanton, N. H..... 12 Theological Seminary, NeWton, Mass.......... 38 Theological Seminary, Andover, Mass...................... 1 Theological institute, Windsor, Ct.... 64 Theological Seminary, Hartwick, N. Y...................... 83 Theological Institute of Episcopal Church, New York.. 94 Theological Seminary'Associate Reformed Church, Newburg, N. Y.............. 84 Theological Seminary, Princeton, N.J................................. 106 Theological Seminary at Canonsburg, Pa....... 108 Theological Seminary, Lutheran Church, Getiysburg, PeL................1............ I10 Theological Seminary, Pittsburg. a...................... 130 Theological Seminary, German Reformed Synod of N. America, Mercersburg,.Pa.. 112 Theological Seminary, Evangelical Lutheran Chuirch, S. C.1.6 Theological Seminary of the sryndd of South Carolina and Georgia...............55 206 INDEX. Page. Thomas, Isaiah............................................................ 43, 111 Thomlinson, John..... 50 Thorstoa, B1z.F.... 60 Tillinghast, Nicholas P..... 51 Tillinghast, John..... 49 Tillinghast, John, L..... 75 Township Libraries, Mich.~.................................. 184 Transylvania University, Lexington, Ky.... 167 Treadwell, Thomas P......................................... 11 Treasury Department, Washington, D. C...................................... 141 Trenton, N. J..... 107 Trinity Coilege, Hartford, Ct.................................................. 67 Troy, N. Y.......I................................................... 99 Tuscaloosa, Ala.............. 159 Tuscumbia, Ga.......... 159 Underhill,J...... 98 Union College, Schenectady, N.. Y..... 98 Union Library, Hatborough, Pa.....110 Union Library, Wakefield, N......15 Union Library, Dublin, N., H...... 12 Union Theological Seminary, N. Y............ 93 Union Theological Seminary, Prince Edward county, Va.... 145 Union University, Murfreesboro, Tenn.................................. 164 Unitarian Church Library, Portsmouth, N. H..... 15 United Brothers' Society,.Brown University.......................... 60 United Fraternity, Dartmouth College........................... 13 United States Military Academy, West Point, N. Y.......................... 99 United States Military Libraries..... 187 United States Naval Lyceum, Brooklyn, N. Y..... 79 Upper Alton, IlI............ 180. Upton, Anson J. Utah............;........................................... 187 Utica, N. Y................. 99 Valle Crucis, Watauga county, Va...... 149 Van Alstyne, John S......... 184 Vandenburg county, lnd..................... 175 Vandervoort, John L..... 95 Van Ess, Leander..... 93 Van Remondt, C. K....... 106 Vatternare, Alexandre........................................... 7, 25, 48, 75, 142, 146 Vermont................................................... 16, 17 Vernon, Thomas................................................ 51 Vernon, William..... 51 Vincennes,..d. 177 Vinton, Thomas....... 173 Virginia................. 142 Virginia Historical and Philosophical Society........................... 147 Virginia Military Institute.._' 144'~T,, abas h C ~~ollg~CafrsflI........................................ 17 Wabash College, Crawfordsville, Ind. 175 Wadsworth, James... 78 Wakefield, N. H......................................... 15 Wake Forest, Va..................................................149 Walcutt, Thomas........................... 26, 44 Wallace, John William..128 War Department, Washington, D. C.................................. 140 Warner, Samuel......................................................... 170 Washington, Augustine.. 21 Washington, Geo., Library of, Boston Athenceum............................. 21 Washington College, Pittsburg, Pa.................. 130 Washington College, Chestertown, Md.... 137 Washington College, Lexington, Va..144 Washington, District of Columbia...................... 138 Washington (Mississippi) College.... 161 Washington College, Tenn.................... 165 Waterville, Ma......................... 10 Wayland, Francis................ 57 Weaver, Charles E.................. 140 Webb, Dr. Thomas H........59 Webb, Mr.......-............ 79 Webster, Horace................ 97 INDEX. 207 Page. Wesleyan Cdllege, Albion, Mich... S.............. e............ 183 Wesleyan Female College, Macon, Ga......................................... 157 Wesleyan University, Middletown, Ct................................,...... 68 WVestchester, Pa............................................................ 130 W estenbaker, W illiam.................................................... 143 Westerrn Baptist Theological Institute, Covington, Ky........................... 166 WesternReserve College, Ohio............................................... 171 Western'Theological Seminary of the Presbyterian Church, Pa........ 107 West Point, N. Y.......................................................... 99 West Tennessee College, Jackson, Tern....................................... 168 Wharton, G. M........................................................... 159 Wheatland, Henry........................................................ 41 Wheeler, Charles............................................................ 146 Whipple, Charles J............................ 40 White, A. P.............. 148 Whitehead, W. A.......................................................... 105 Whitney, B. L....................................... *..................... 36 Wickham, Samuel.......................................................... 49 Willard. Joseph.......... 39 William and Mary College, Williamsburg, Va................................. 148 Williamsburg, Va.......................................................... 148 Williams College, Williamstown, Mass................................. 41 Williams, Horace G................................. 68, 70 WVilliams, Joseph........................................................... 69 Williams, Philip....................................................... 139 Williams, Thomas Hale.................................................... 61 Williamstown, Mass....................................................... 41 Willis, William............................................................. 9 Willis, M. Hitt............................................................. 177 Wilson, James P.......................................................... 132 Wing, M. T. C............................................................ 171 Winthrop, Francis B...................................... 88 Winthrop, James........111 Winthrop, Thomas L............................................ 44, 48 Wisconsin....................................................... 186 WVittenburg College, Springfield, Ohio................................ 174 Wo e d Ger....I............................................... 7 Woed, George...75 Wood, William............................................................ 27 Woodward College, Cincinnati, Ohio.......................................... 170 Worcester, Mass................................. 43 Wording, W. E....................................................... 14 Wright, Elizur........................................................... 36 Yale College, New Haven, Ct................................................ 70, 73 Young, John C.............................................................. 166 Young Mens' Association, Albany, N. Y...................... 77 Young Mens' Association, Buffalo, N. Y...................................... 81 Young Mens' Association, Schenectady, N. Y.................................. 99 Young Mens' Association, Troy, N. Y....................................... 99 Young Mens' Association of the City of Milwaukie............................ 186 Young Mens' Association, Utica, N. Y................I..................... 99 Young Mens' Institute, Hartford, Ct..................................... 64 Young Mens' Institute, New Haven, Ct....................................... 73 Young Mens' Library, Augusta, Ga........................................... 157 Young Mens' Mercantile Association, Cincinnati, Ohio.......................... 169 Young Mens' Mercantile Library and Mechanics' Institute, Pittsburg, Pa.......... 130 Young Mens' Society Library, Detroit, Mich................................... 183 Youths' Free Library of the Brooklyn Institute................................. 80 Zanesville, Ohio............................................................ 174 Erratum.-Page 35, line ~8 from the top, for "Williams College" read William and Mary College.