Page 30 - Training for Librarianship Library Work As a Career

TRAINING FOR LIBRARIANSHIP

The selection and ordering of material
thus comes to be a most important part in the
work of any library. It must be done intelli-
gently, with definite understanding of the
library's needs and with a knowledge of book
content and book values. Since space on the
shelves must be regarded as at a premium,
books and other material contemplated for
purchase must be considered both with re-
spect to the need of the library and its
patrons. Will the item duplicate, supple-
ment or extend the library collections? To
decide this some idea of its content as of
that of the material already in possession of
the library is required. In addition, familiar-
ity with book prices, discounts, conditions in
the book trade, a knowledge of what to buy,
and when and where, are essential. Auction
and second-hand catalogs must be studied,
bids made, correspondence conducted.
Orders must be placed, gifts acknowledged,
sale or exchange of duplicates arranged, and
records of all transactions kept.
In the smaller library, the librarian is of
necessity required not only to supervise but
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