In libraries with bookcases of the uniform height of seven feet six inches, long ladders will be unnecessary, but in cases where they must be used, step ladders are preferable to rung ones. A light form of step ladder which is used in many public libraries and shops is illustrated ([Fig. 38]). For all practical purposes this ladder will be found ample.
Fig. 38.—Lattice-work Steps
([Section 156]).
Fig. 39.—Short Steps for Low Shelves
([Section 156]).
Short steps for enabling the upper shelves of seven foot six inch cases to be scanned easily are made in various forms, some being folding and others fixed. The variety as illustrated ([Fig. 39]) will be found useful.
Fig. 40.—Continuous Wooden Step and Handles, Hornsey Central Library ([Section 157]).
157.
157. In some open access libraries it has been found advisable, in cases where the top shelves are out of reach, to provide a continuous fixed step of wood or iron at the base of each bookcase, to enable readers to reach the upper shelves without using movable steps of the sort figured [above]. A strong, wide iron rail projecting about four inches or six inches from the case, about nine inches or twelve inches above the ground, has been found useful, especially when associated with a handle fastened to the upright at a convenient height above. The illustration ([Fig. 40]) will give an idea of such a continuous step and handle applied in wood.