Diffusion of Scientific Memoirs

Abstract

IN some of the numbers of NATURE which have recently reached me I find that Prof. Tait has broached a subject of extreme importance to societies interested in the distribution of their publications, and in the receipt of publications from kindred bodies. Although I am connected with a small society which has hitherto only enjoyed an ephemeral existence, I trust that a brief account of my experience in the distribution of publications may have a little value. Early in 1883 more than 250 copies of our publications were distributed amongst the leading societies and libraries throughout the world. On my exchange list I now have 271 names ; I also send to about 100 members of the Society. A few copies of our publications have been sent to persons who have made seismology a specialty. With each volume there was inclosed a printed form to be filled up and returned, both as a receipt and as a statement of other volumes which might be required. The institutions to which volumes were sent were as far as possible selected as having an interest in scientific investigations. Especial care was taken to forward volumes to institutions established in earthquake-shaken or volcanic regions, as for instance to many parts of South America, New Zealand, Central Siberia, Iceland, &c.