Remarks on the practice and policy of lending Bodleian printed books and manuscripts

by Henry W. (Henry William) Chandler

"Remarks on the Practice and Policy of Lending Bodleian Printed Books and Manuscripts" by Henry W. Chandler is a critical examination written in the late 19th century. This treatise scrutinizes the practices surrounding the lending of books and manuscripts at the Bodleian Library, providing historical context, policy analysis, and personal reflections on the implications of these practices. Chandler argues against the prevalent practice of lending, emphasizing the potential damage to the library’s valuable collections and the conflicts it presents with the institution's foundational principles. The opening of the text sets the stage for Chandler's argument by detailing his observations made over a year while involved with the curatorial committee of the library. He recounts previous practices, historical statutes, and discussions among curators about lending policies, expressing frustration at their apparent disregard for the library's foundational statutes against such practices. Chandler articulates a strong opposition to lending books out of the Bodleian, arguing that it undermines the integrity and preservation of a collection meant for scholarly use, and he emphasizes the importance of maintaining strict controls on access to the library's most valuable assets.