(_See_ p. 103.)
Mr. DEWEY: I wish to remind some of you who were with us 25 years ago in
Philadelphia, when we organized the A. L. A., and who, during that whole
period, have studied its interests so closely, that the time has come at
last when we are really on the way to secure one of the things we have
always thought most important--co-operative printed catalog cards. This
will make for all of us less drudgery and more inspiration, for there is
not much inspiration in writing out author's names; it will relieve us
of a considerable burden; it will produce economy and increase
efficiency; and it appeals strongly to our trustees and business men. It
is perhaps the most important thing we have to do, and there have been
apparently insuperable obstacles to success; but we have always hoped
for one complete solution. And this was that it could be done at the
National Library in Washington, with its printing presses, post-office
facilities, copyright department and great central collection. You
remember that when the Pacific railroad was built, and as the ends came
together to make the connection, a great celebration was held through
the country, a thrill that the work was at last done; and I feel to-day,
now that we hear in this able report that printed catalog cards are
really to be undertaken at the National Library, that what we have
waited for over 20 years and what we have been dreaming about has come
to pass at last. After serving my term on the Publishing Board--this is
my valedictory--I feel to-day that I must say just this: Now that we
have reached this point, that every one has hoped for so long, we must
see to it that this agency is utilized and appreciated. Every one of us
ought to watch those printed cards, and make suggestions as to their
use. If we utilize them, and prove their value and their economy, we can
rely on the great support of the National Library in many other
movements.