Prof. Helen Howard
[stamped, OCT -- 6 1980]
University -- Communication -- Library
Thank you for the reprint. I learned for example that my neighbor (and alma-mater) Columbia had modernized its organization!
The R.U. has approached some of these problems still more radically, by remaining modestly small and sharply focused in its mission. So our experience may not be too helpful for a more complex university. Enclosed are some materials pertinent.
One virtue of our organization is that I can try to function personally as a prime nexus of substantive communication. Not only does Mrs. Mirsley report directly to me: she will probably affirm that I am perhaps the library's most diligent user (after her!)
CC: Mrs Mirsley
(Univ. Librarian)
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[BEGIN PAGE TWO]
Do let us know if you find yourself here in NYC with a free hour or two and we can arrange a meeting with a few of our most pertinent colleagues.
You make an excellent point on the no-user-fee economics of the traditional library having become an impediment to investment and innovation. In designing our services, I have felt that everyone be given start-up-scrip; but heavy users of any service should be charged. The greatest inertia comes from tradition-bound users!
Joshua Lederberg
Your paper reminds me that not only the structure of R.U. but my personal interest in communication may be atypical. But it's not a coincidence that I should be here.
Sre [?]: Eacs -- p253
Consortium
(151?) ?-ce/3L
(AR)