Communication.

We invite all members of the University to contribute to this column, but we are not responsible for the sentiments expressed.

To the Editors of the Crimson:

May I add a few words to your editorial note in Saturday's CRIMSON in regard to the use of reserved books at the Library. It is well that the object of the "reserved book" system should be clearly understood and the conditions on which it depends appreciated.

The purpose of the Library is to place whatever books are needed by students as freely as possible at their service, and, to secure to each man equal rights in their use. Some seven or eight thousand volumes accordingly, designated by the professors as the most important for the work of their courses, are "reserved" from general circulation on the open shelves in the Reading Room where every one can handle them freely, and use them at pleasure. The only conditions necessary to secure satisfactory results are that the books shall not leave the Library and that they shall be used in a spirit of fairness.

Occasionally a man forgets or disregards these conditions, and either secures possession of a volume he wants by underhand means, or takes it away from the Library secretly. Such a man sets himself directly against the general interest and has to be dealt with accordingly. He is deprived of the use of the Library, not because he has broken a certain rule, but because he fails to conform to the liberal principles on which the Library is administered, and shows himself unfit to be trusted in a Library that relies on the loyal support and willing co-operation of those who use it. Very truly yours,   WILLIAM C. LANE.