How to Form a Library, 2nd ed

A practical handbook for assembling a readable and serviceable library, combining historical perspective with concrete advice on buying, organizing, and sustaining collections. It compares earlier guides, explains differences between public and private libraries, and recommends general and special bibliographies, publishing societies, and curated lists to aid selection. Practical rules address acquisition methods, committee versus individual decision-making, children's collections, and the balance between personal taste and comprehensive coverage. The work concludes with suggested core titles and reference lists intended to help readers form coherent, useful libraries without relying solely on chance or personal bias.