History of Libraries in the Western World

This edition of the "History of Libraries in the Western World" represents a substantial revision of the earlier edition, taking into account the "information revolution" that has swept the West since 1945 and the political revolution that swept across Europe beginning in 1986. In addition, recent scholarship has been incorporated throughout the text, with special emphasis on the work centered around the "new history of the book." The bibliographies at the end of each of the twelve chapters have been thoroughly revised to reflect the very considerable new work on library and book history.

From Library JournalThis latest update is a succinct and readable account of the development of libraries within the context of Western civilization. Divided as before into three sections covering the ancient world, the medieval period, and the modern era, Harris's account is well organized and informative. This edition includes recent developments such as the reunification of Germany. The European treatment emphasizes Britain, France, Italy, and Germany, with little mention of Scandinavia, Iberia, or eastern Europe except Russia. U.S. libraries form the bulk of the American chapters, with nods to Canada and Latin America. The text is expanded from the 1984 compact edition (Professional Reading, LJ 8/84) but is shorter than the 1976 third revised edition; the typography is much improved. There are good reading lists for each chapter but no footnotes or complete bibliography. Recommended.?Elizabeth Brice, Miami Univ. Libs., Oxford, OhioCopyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.

ReviewHarris creates...understanding of the progression [of libraries and their continual adaptation] by placing these developments within the context of social and political climates. He doesn't overlook the influence of class and wealth on libraries, nor does he ignore contributions made by women and minority groups. It is a credit to Harris' writing that the book is spiced with excerpts, anecdotes, and wisdoms recorded by ancient and modern librarians. The updated bibliographies...extend its use beyond the covers...this well researched and long standing work on library history...[is] an essential purchase... (Public Library Quarterly )

This edition is a substantial revision of the 1976 version. (Jal Guide To Professional Literature )

...the best and most readable all-purpose survey history of western libraries that has ever been produced... (Collection Management )

...places developments in library history within a larger social context.

...the fact that it has reached a fourth edition suggests a life of some utility. There is little more to be said. The tour is conducted by a conventional guide well primed with dates, names, and (highly condensed) social background... (Library Review )

Harris creates...understanding of the progression [of libraries and their continual adaptation] by placing these developments within the context of social and political climates. He doesn't overlook the influence of class and wealth on libraries, nor doeshe ignore contributions made by women and minority groups. It is a credit to Harris' writing that the book is spiced with excerpts, anecdotes, and wisdoms recorded by ancient and modern librarians. The updated bibliographies...extend its use beyond the covers...this well researched and long standing work on library history...[is] an essential purchase..... (Public Library Quarterly )

Themes are well identified and discussed: detail of places, persons and dates is provided in appropriate quantity. The chronological balance of the book is, as ever, a judicious one, with nearly half devoted to ancient and medieval libraries. (Paul Sturges )