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Cover of Government Documents in Small Libraries: Reprinted from Report of Board of Library Commissioners of Ohio for the Year ending November 15, 1909.

Government Documents in Small Libraries: Reprinted from Report of Board of Library Commissioners of Ohio for the Year ending November 15, 1909.

Written by Charles Wells Reeder

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About this book

"Government Documents in Small Libraries" by Charles Wells Reeder is a practical guide written in the early 20th century, specifically around the year 1910. This book addresses the challenges faced by small libraries in acquiring and managing government publications. It provides insights into the selection and distribution processes of these documents, emphasizing the importance of tailoring collections to the specific needs of local communities. In this discussion, Reeder outlines various methods for small libraries to obtain government documents, such as through depository libraries and congressional quotas. He highlights specific types of publications that can be particularly beneficial, including agricultural bulletins, educational reports, and statistical data from the Bureau of the Census. The author encourages librarians to actively engage with their communities to better understand the demand for specific types of government information, which can enhance the relevance and usefulness of their collections. The work serves as both a reference and a resource for librarians looking to expand their knowledge of government publications and efficiently serve their patrons.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Government Documents in Small Libraries: Reprinted from Report of Board of Library Commissioners of Ohio for the Year ending November 15, 1909., written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 3 hours
  • advanced
  • informative
  • instructive
  • historical

Charles Wells Reeder's "Government Documents in Small Libraries" is a reprinted report from 1909, offering practical guidance for small public libraries on the acquisition, organization, and utilization of government publications. It emphasizes the often-overlooked value of these documents as vital sources of information for the public, advocating for their systematic integration into library collections. The report serves as both an instructional manual and a persuasive argument for the civic importance of accessible public records, reflecting early 20th-century library science principles regarding information dissemination and public service. It details methods for selection, cataloging, and promotion, ensuring these valuable resources reach their intended audience.

The government document is a source of information too valuable to be neglected by any library, however small.

Key themes

Accessibility of Information
This is the central theme, emphasizing the critical importance of making government-produced information readily available to all citizens, regardless of their location or prior knowledge. The report argues that such accessibility is fundamental to an informed democracy and practical daily living.
Efficient Library Management
The report provides detailed, practical guidance on how small libraries, often with limited resources, can effectively acquire, organize, and maintain collections of government documents. This theme underscores the need for systematic processes and professional skills in library operations.
Civic Education and Engagement
Reeder implicitly frames the provision of government documents as a crucial function of the library in fostering an educated and engaged citizenry. Access to official data, reports, and proceedings empowers individuals to understand and participate in their government and society.

Worth discussing

How does Reeder's argument for the importance of government documents resonate with contemporary debates about open government and information access?

Chapter-by-chapter breakdowns, character arcs and the full thematic analysis come with a free account.

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