Not least among the improvements introduced by the new Library is the periodical room. In the cramped quarters of Upper Massachusetts there was little inducement for men to browse about in the superb collection of current magazines which the Library receives. But in the comfortable and spacious quarters of the room in Widener this educating pursuit is indulged in by scores of men.

Students keenly feel, however, the lack of an ample and accessible collection of daily papers. Only four are kept, in ponderous files, in the periodical room. The general student of affairs and events, as well as the student of economics, government, and history profits enormously by reading representative newspapers from all parts of the country, and, if possible, of the world. They form a laboratory of research into the stream of contemporary life. Moreover, a generous collection of newspapers, the current editions of which were placed upon convenient racks, in an accessible room, would encourage the study of affairs. The Library, of course, is not overburdened with money; but if there is any at all to spare, surely this is a profitable way in which to spend it.