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Cover of How to Form a Library, 2nd ed

How to Form a Library, 2nd ed

Written by Henry B. (Henry Benjamin) Wheatley

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About this book

"How to Form a Library, 2nd ed." by Henry B. Wheatley is a guidebook on library formation likely written in the late 19th century. The work addresses practical methods for constructing both public and private libraries, catering to the needs of book lovers and librarians alike. Wheatley provides insight into the historical development of libraries and offers advice on book selection, organization, and management, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in library science or personal collecting. At the start of the book, the author emphasizes the need for a comprehensive guide on how to form a library, acknowledging previous works while noting their limitations based on outdated references. In the introduction, Wheatley reflects on historical figures who were notable book collectors, such as Richard de Bury and Petrarch, illustrating how the challenges faced in the past make modern collection easier. He outlines the chapters to follow, which will explore various aspects such as buying books, establishing public and private libraries, creating bibliographies, and selecting books that suit library needs. This opening context sets the stage for readers to understand both the importance and the intricacies of curating a library that serves personal and community interests.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in How to Form a Library, 2nd ed, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • intermediate
  • Informative
  • Practical
  • Scholarly

Henry B. Wheatley's "How to Form a Library, 2nd ed" is a comprehensive late 19th-century guidebook designed for individuals and institutions interested in establishing or improving libraries. The work serves as a practical manual, addressing the historical evolution of libraries while offering concrete advice on book selection, organization, and management for both public and private collections. Wheatley emphasizes the necessity of such a guide, updating previous works and drawing on the experiences of historical bibliophiles to simplify modern library formation. It meticulously outlines the essential steps for curating a library that effectively serves its intended audience, whether for personal enrichment or community benefit.

“The formation of a library, whether public or private, demands not merely enthusiasm but a systematic and informed approach.”

Key themes

Organization and Systematization
A core practical theme, Wheatley stresses that the mere accumulation of books is insufficient; a library's true utility derives from its systematic organization. This includes methods of cataloging, classification, and shelving that ensure easy access and efficient management. This theme highlights the necessity of structure to transform a collection into a functional resource.
The Value of Knowledge and Books
This theme underpins the entire guide, positing books as essential vessels of knowledge and culture. Wheatley implicitly argues for the profound impact of well-curated collections on individual enlightenment and societal progress. The act of forming a library is presented not just as a practical endeavor but as a noble pursuit that preserves and disseminates wisdom across generations.
The Art and Science of Selection
Wheatley dedicates significant attention to the critical process of selecting books. This theme explores the criteria for choosing appropriate materials, considering the library's purpose (public vs. private), its intended audience, and the quality and relevance of the content. It’s presented as both a 'science' (based on objective criteria) and an 'art' (requiring discernment and taste).

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