The Mismanagement of London University Library

Abstract

IS it impossible for the powers that be at London University to abolish the scandalous regulations concerning the library, and to render this library a means of culture instead of an almost unusable and unused collection of books? A university library ought to be so managed that anyone wishing to bequeath books could put them lo no better use than by leaving them to the university; but, as things are, it would scarcely be possible to more effectually waste books than by giving them to London University. In the first place—contrary to the practice of the learned societies and the subscription-libraries—no graduate is allowed to have books sent to him by post, which regulation at once renders the library utterly useless to the great majority of graduates. Secondly, an absolutely insane rule requires the return of all books by December 31 of each year, even though they may have been borrowed at Christmas arid are required for study during the vacation ! and although I interpret this rule as applying only to non-members of Convocation, a contrary interpretation has prevented me from obtaining books a fortnight ago. Thirdly, although the University has now been located in its new home for two years, a personal demand for books is met by the reply that, as “the books of the library have not yet been arranged, and the whole library is in a very disorganised state,” the books either cannot be found at all or only after several days' delay! The history of a recent attempt to obtain books from this library would move the careless, to laughter and the studious to anger; but I dare not trespass-further on your space.