Abstract
THIS book is in the nature of a mixed grill for two. Based on the inaugural lectures delivered in the Department of Library Science in the University of Delhi in 1947 it consists, in part, of an attempt to establish that there is a library science and, in part, of a practical exposition to students of what Dr. S. R. Ranganathan understands by the expression “Library Science". The latter is essentially a dissertation on the five ‘laws’ or principles of library science which Dr. Ranganathan enunciated nearly twenty years ago: books are for use ; every reader his book ; every book his reader ; save the time of the reader ; the library is a growing organism. Elementary as these principles seem, Dr. Ranganathan shows how they cover the essential functions of any type of library, and how ruthlessly they challenge the formalism and pedantry that sometimes mar the usefulness of a library and the essential co-operation between user and library staff.
Preface to Library Science
By Dr. S. R. Ranganathan. Pp. 203. (Delhi: University of Delhi; London: G. Blunt and Sons, Ltd., 1948.) 18s.
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BRIGHTMAN, R. Preface to Library Science. Nature 164, 202 (1949). https://doi.org/10.1038/164202a0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/164202a0