Collecting for the history of medicine.

Value of books depends on their place in the collection, and it is not suggested that the librarian become an expert in the prices of rare books. The dealer should be trusted as an adviser. The same is true about disposal of rare books. An account is given of earlier practice at the New York Academy of Medicine Library in the acquisition of rare books, and some notable items are listed. The importance of pamphlets, reprints, and annual reports is discussed. Building a collection of the institution's own records is commended, and various examples given of how an unbalanced or inappropriate collection loses its value. Good examples of special subject collections are quoted. Care and preservation of rare material are discussed.