In this Book suggestions are made as to location and equipment of every room in a library. Note especially Stack-towers, Carrels, and Sliding Cases.
E.
DEPARTMENTS AND ROOMS
PART I
ADMINISTRATION ROOMS
While books are the substance of a library and readers the object, how to bring them together is the key to arrangement of the plan; therefore the first consideration among rooms is here given to administration.
Except as otherwise specified later, the working rooms ought to be put in the center of the library, in order of processes for handling books and serving readers, and ought to be in the most direct connection possible with each other, with stacks and with reading rooms. Here centers good planning.
Always remember what economy lies in close connections, concentration, and short distances.
Every saving in communication may mean an attendant saved, and a smaller pay-roll.
“Ease and smoothness of administration are to further public service or lessen expense.”—Bostwick.[228]