A series of notes on the _utility_ of printed catalogues of public
libraries may seem to be a superfluity. It may be said, _Who ever denied
it?_ Relying on a official document, I can assert that it _has_ been
denied--in defiance of common sense, and the experience of two hundred and
fifty years!
At such a time, it behoves every lover of literature to declare himself,
and to furnish his quota of facts or arguments corrective of this upstart
paradox. It is under the influence of that sentiment that I submit, for
consideration in the proper quarter, some short extracts from my
bibliographic portfolios.