FURNITURE.
Fig. 5.[6]
Fig. 6.
Tables for reading or writing at are best made in the form of a double desk,
which gives readers the most convenience, and affords an effective but unobtrusive means of mutual oversight. The framing and rails should be as shallow as possible, so as not to interfere with the comfort of readers, and elaborately turned or carved legs should be avoided, because certain to harbour dust, and likely to form resting-places for feet. Tables with flat tops resting on central pedestals, and without side rails, are very useful in general reading-rooms, the free leg space being a decided advantage. Long tables are not recommended, nor are narrow ones which accommodate readers on one side only. The former are obstructive, and the latter are neither economical as regards the seating of readers, nor of much use for the necessary mutual oversight which ought to be promoted among the public. Very good dimensions for reading-room tables are 8 to 10 feet long by 3 to 3 feet 6 inches wide by 2 feet 6 inches high. But the librarian who wishes to consult the varying requirements of his readers will have his tables made different heights—some 29, some 30, and some 32 inches high. Whatever materials may be used for the framing and legs of tables, let the tops be hard-wood, like American or English oak, mahogany, or walnut. Teak is handsome and very durable, but its cost is much more than the better known woods. Yellow pine is too soft and looks common, and should not be used for tops unless the most rigid economy is absolutely necessary. Heavy tables, like those used in clubs, are not recommended. Ink wells, if provided at all, should be let in flush with the tops of the desk tables, and ought to have sliding brass covers, with thumb-notches for moving instead of knobs. Two common forms of library tables are shown in the annexed illustrations. The one on pedestals need not have such large brackets, and the ends can easily be allowed to project at least 18 inches from the pedestals in order to admit of readers sitting at them. In connection with tables there are various kinds of reading slopes made for large books, of which those with movable supporters working in a ratcheted base are the most useful. But there are endless varieties of such reading desks or stands in existence, and some invalid-appliance makers manufacture many different kinds.