Clear formulation of library purpose and function aids economical and wise action, and attention to theoretical concepts provides a sense of continuity and unity to the profession as a whole. (17 references) (Author)

This bulletin is virtually a new edition of the work entitled "Special collections of American libraries," by William Coolidge Lane and Charles Knowles Bolton, published in 1892. Since the publication of that most important contribution to American library literature there have been several surveys of a local character published. While…