Page:Library Administration, 1898.djvu/45

 lectures and exercises of the school, and do not ask it to become responsible for their attainments, or to assist them to new positions."

"The school aims specially to help on those who have already started in library work. &hellip; It is glad to give all the assistance possible in one short term to those who cannot command time for a proper course, but does not encourage the atten- dance of those who think they are to become expert librarians or cataloguers after three months of study, however faithful."

The practical part of the instruction given consists in the cataloguing of the books added to the State Library of New York, and in visits (sometimes lasting for ten days) to New York or Boston for the study of methods used in the libraries there, and to publishers', binders', and printers' establishments. Library appliances of every description are provided for practical work. The theoretical part is conveyed by lectures, often of an informal kind. The progress of the student is tested at the end of each of his two years by an examination conducted by the members of the library staff, seventy-five per cent, of the marks ensuring a pass, and ninety per cent. "honours." Those obtaining "honours" receive a library degree, on condition of already possessing an academic degree. The expense of the course is not less than £6o a year, including board and lodging. Each year about