Subject - Index of the London Library. By C. T. Hagberg
Wright, LL.D. (Williams and Norgate. 31s. 6d. net.)—The work of cata- loguing the London Library was only half accomplished by the publication in 1903 of an "Author Catalogue." There remained the more difficult task of preparing a "Subject-Index," and we must heartily congratulate the librarian, Dr. Hagberg Wright, upon its successful conclusion. Its value as a book of reference could hardly be exaggerated, and is by no means limited to Members of the London Library. From the time of its founda- tion, more than :sixty years ago, the library has had at its disposal the advice of men of the widest general reading and the most expert special knowledge. In consequence of this, its quarter of a million volumes form a collection, and its subject-index a bibliography; almost perfect for non- technical purposes The classification of the index, with its
hierarchy of headings and sub-headings, is elaborate but simple. Under the word "Germany," for instance, there are twenty-three main divisions,—such as antiquities, economics, history, and topography. If we further examine one of these, we find under history twenty-eight subdivisions (bibliography, boundary questions, constitution, &c.), which are themselves still further subdivided. But the practical uses of the index require no emphasis. To many there must come an additional pleasure from an objectless glance through its pages; and to them the shorter headings will yield most satisfaction. Some are almost romantic : "Obelisks! Zoega (G.) Ile origins obeliscorwm, 1797. Refer to Cleopatra's Needle!" Others are even satirical: " Tarantism! See 'Dancing mania'; and 'Women,' sub-heading Political Rights." We must add that Dr. Hagberg Wright describes in an interest- ing preface the origin of the work and the methods employed in its execution.
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