BOOK SALES RESEARCH
SIR, Mr. Leonard Russell has gone to some trouble to discredit the findings of my survey of the methods used by readers in selecting their books, and I would appreciate the oppor- tunity of replying to some of the points he makes.
The aim of the survey was to throw light on a subject which has hitherto remained something of a mystery. Judging from the encouraging messages I have received from many sections of the publishing trade my efforts have not been entirely wasted, although for one reason or another the findings, were not acceptable to all.
Mr. Russell evidently considers 2,000 replies a poor sample on which to base results, even though all the replies came from buyers of new books. I am assured by those with con- siderable experience in these matters that this number is perfectly adequate. The fact that all the questionnaires were not completed does not invalidate the remainder which all contained some facts that were used. In any case, my findings were not complete as this was only an interim report.
To show that no extravagant claims were made for the survey I requote my own words as used by Mr. Russell: 'My figures indicate that the Observer hp the greatest number of readers sufficiently interested in books to take the trouble to answer a publisher's questionnaire.'
As to reviews being non-existent in the Bookseller. I really must ask Mr. Russell to read his copy more carefully. For a good many years it has run a feature entitled 'Under Review,' a commentary of current book re' views. In addition, much of the paper is devoted to factual descriptions of new books. Issue for issue, the Bookseller probably covers more books each week in its editorial columns than the Sunday Times.
Lastly, may I in all sincerity make this sug- gestion to Mr. Russell. Let the Sunday Times put its forces to work and undertake a large- scale survey of book-buying habits in this country, This would add to their already con- siderable services to the publishing trade. Meanwhile, until other figures become avail- able, the Harrap survey must suffice.—Yours faithfully,
R. H. LANGBRIDGE George G. Harrap & Co. Ltd., WC1
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