Guide to National Collections

Abstract

AMONG the numerous suggestions which have been put forward of means whereby the public might be stimulated to visit in greater numbers the museums and national collections in London, that of a general guide covering all the collections has been one of the most attractive. It has been pointed out that few, outside those who are technically or professionally interested, know where to find exhibits which will illustrate subjects on which they desire to be better informed, while even among the learned and scientific public, not many could without hesitation state off-hand the range and purpose of each unit in the series. A “Brief Guide to the National Museums and Galleries of London” (H.M. Stationery Office, pp. 106. 6d. net) has now been issued in accordance with a recommendation of the Standing Commission on Museums and Galleries in the hope, as expressed by Lord d'Abernon, the chairman, in a prefatory note, that “this guide, giving in compendious form the salient facts of interest concerning each of the Institutions, may stimulate public interest, both at home and abroad, in the unrivalled resources of the National Collections”. It is not intended to supersede individual guides and handbooks, but to supplement them by giving briefly within a single cover information relating to the origin, purpose, range and arrangement of each, together with much useful and practical information, such as how to get there, time of opening and closing, charge for admission, if any, and the like. Especially helpful is a series of street-maps, showing the approaches. The information is clear, direct and comprehensive and there are some excellent illustrations. Experience will show whether the information is given in a form which will attract those for whom it is intended. Should the demand justify, it will be revised annually. Copies may be obtained at H.M. Stationery Office sale branches or through any bookseller, as well as at the museums.