Traité de l'administration des bibliothèques publiques
"Traité de l'administration des bibliothèques publiques" by Gabriel Richou is a scientific publication written in the late 19th century. This work discusses the historical development, organization, and legislation surrounding public libraries in France. The book aims to provide a comprehensive framework for understanding the various types of public libraries, their management, and their operation within the context of administrative law. The opening of the book presents Richou's rationale for writing this comprehensive treatise, which intends to gather scattered information regarding the administration of public libraries into a coherent structure. He highlights the importance of libraries as reflective of a society's intellectual culture and briefly summarizes their historical background until the Revolution. Richou also sets up the framework for his analysis of library organization, listing the different categories of public libraries, their administrative structures, and relevant legislative frameworks. He positions the work not just as an academic document, but as a practical guide for librarians and administrators involved in managing public library systems.