To the Editors of the Crimson:
Among a number of rather exasperating restrictions in the Harvard Library there is one which seems particularly without reason. I do not mean the rule which forbids you to remove the drawers from the card catalogue, although that frequently forces the reader to sprawl on the floor if he desires to consult the lower drawers, and often causes a considerable waste of time when some one else is using one of the drawers in the same column with the one which you wish to use. Nor do I refer to the law which denies holders of cards the access to any of the newer stacks, although that limits the conveniences which the library affords. These rules probably have some raison d-etre. But what possible reason is there in prohibiting men from carrying their bags within the library? If a man goes to the library with a bunch of notes and loose papers, with perhaps some pamphlets and books of his own, with ink, pens, pencil, eraser and so on, all of which he intends to use in connection with his work in the library,- why is he forbidden to bring a convenient receptacle for such articles? Why is he compelled whenever he enters the library to inconveniently dispose of these various articles as best he may in his pockets, and incure the risk of dropping and losing loose sheets of notes and references, when he is provided with other means of caring for them? In other words, why are such inconveniences imposed upon a student by the University library, as the Boston Library does not think of imposing upon a tramp? If a man desires to steal a library book, he can do so without the use of a bag. An overcoat or a mackintosh will serve the same purpose just as well. In fact I am inclined to believe that such a petty restriction tends to encourage a man to steal.
A. P. ANDREW, JR.April 4, 1896.