Why would a library discard this book?

[Aragon]

I went to my local "Friends of the Library" book sale and I was shocked to find a discarded copy (from a local library) of George Cameron Stone's seminal "A Glossary of the Construction, Decoration and Use of Arms and Armor in All Countries and in All Times, Together with Some Closely Related Subjects" for a buck an inch.

This is an important reference, a timeless piece that should be accessible to all. I have to wonder if it was discarded due to its title and contents? Sad to see a book like this selling for a buck and a half...

 

[Steel Horse Rider]

I pick up a lot of good books at bargain prices at the library book sales in the communities near me. They sell the books that are not being checked out. Buy the book and be happy, at least it will be owned by someone who appreciates the information within. I think that 95% of the books I own were purchased at flea markets, used book stores, and "friends of the library" sales.

 

[roofsc]

it doesn't fit THEIR agenda

 

[natman]

Libraries sell books that don't get checked out to make room for books that will get checked out.

 

[earlthegoat2]

Probably not for the reasons you want to believe.

 

[1911 guy]

Sometimes a public library stocks books that fit an agenda or are deemed "acceptable" by whatever reviewing body they are subject to.

But most of the time, like has been said, there is a review of what books are being checked out and what books aren't. The ones that don't get checked out are sold off to fund the purchase of books that fit the profile/demographic of books that do get checked out.

Unfortunately, that means I've seen public libraries go from places to find classics, obscure reference and new release books into places that have shelves filled with tripe, literary porn and third rate junk.

What does it tell you about the average reader in America when the most popular book is "Fifty Shades of Gray". but they have no clue what's going on in the world?

Anyway, good find. Find a place for it in your library at home.

 

[geim druth]

A great book and a wonderful reference, but not an easy book to find in a library unless someone knows what they are looking for.

I think this is a case of a librarian not knowing the real value of a book that is not regularly checked out.

 

[oneounceload]

Libraries sell books that don't get checked out to make room for books that will get checked out.

Just like Walmart - if it doesn't move, they clear it out

Go ahead and buy it for a buck and a half and donate somewhere else = maybe a local high school or community college library

 

[Robert]

This has nothing to do with the mission or goals of THR.

 

[4v50 Gary]

What natman says. Shelf space is limited and if a book isn't popular, it is discarded. Unfortunately, this could include many antique books. I once got an original copy of Adm. Porter's memoirs and when I went back to check it out again, it was gone (discarded).