The high cost of paper is hampering the work of the United States
government seriously. Publications are being cut down and plans are
under way to discontinue those of minor importance. Officials in all
departments put into effect today orders to conserve paper. A principal
step is use of smaller type in printing.
The United States government annually places the largest individual
contract made in this country for paper. When paper required for
present fiscal year is ready for delivery, general purchasing agents
have been warned that mills will not be able to meet a demand equally
as great next year, even at enormous increase in price.
Dr. O. H. Briggs, head of government general supply division says:
“Latest reports show a crisis in the paper industry, and retrenchment
all along the line will be enforced. Government contract price for fine
grades of typewriting paper last year was 12 cents a pound. Today we
should have to pay 20 cents. We are using 100 different kinds of paper.
Since the war the price has jumped about 100% and will continue to
soar.”
Government printing demands about 15 carloads daily and paper for its
use alone has amounted to more than $1,000,000 a year. Printing paper
for this year’s work costs 4½ cents, but contracts for future supplies
will show 100% increase or more in price.