The four million volumes and 200 libraries of all types within the city limits of Philadelphia represent the acquisitions of two and a half centuries. These books give the record of the birth and development of intellectual life and accomplishment of the country more completely, perhaps, than can be found anywhere else. Some of the libraries filled the needs of their time and then ceased to grow; others continued to help succeeding generations. All except one were products of associations of men insistent upon acquiring knowledge and making it available to others. The history of these libraries becomes that of a few farsighted and inquiring individuals, and the life and times in which they lived.
Three years ago there were 16 libraries in Philadelphia which were almost entirely chemical in nature. However, this subject is well represented in the general science group as well as in the medical collections and in those of the all-inclusive libraries of universities and colleges. The highest concentrations of chemical and closely allied works are to be found in the University of Pennsylvania with its Edgar Fahs Smith