The Collection and Research Fund.

Balance October 2, 1895,..

Income to October 1, 1896,.

Expenditure from the Fund for salaries and incidentals,..

1896, October 1. Amount of Fund,

$18,570.95
1,114.26

$19,685.21

1,343.69

$18,341.52

The undersigned, Auditors of the American Antiquarian Society, hereby certify that we have examined the report of the Treasurer, made up to October 1, 1896, and find the same to be correct and properly vouched; that the securities held by him are as stated, and that the balance of cash, as stated to be on hand, is satisfactorily accounted for.

October 19, 1896.

WM. A. SMITH.
A. G. BULLOCK.

REPORT OF THE LIBRARIAN.

ON July 28, 1896, the remainder of our collection of minerals was delivered to Dr. Leonard P. Kinnicutt for the use of the Worcester Polytechnic Institute, with the understanding that what the Institute does not retain will be sent to the Worcester Natural History Society. This is the final act in the distribution authorized by the Council September 24, 1892, which is explained in the librarian's report of April 24, 1895. And here I note the earlier action of the Council regarding the cabinet. On December 31, 1834, it was voted that a Committee be chosen to report what disposition shall be made of the Printing Press presented by Mr. Thomas"; September 5, 1853,"voted to choose a Committee to consider the best mode of disposing of the Curiosities and Cabinet articles belonging to the Society. Chose Hon. Stephen Salisbury and Hon. Isaac Davis"; and March 23, 1884, "voted that the Library Committee be authorized to make exchanges of perishable articles, in their discretion, as most for the interest of the Society."

The present revival of interest in Ex Libris matters may serve a good as well as a doubtful purpose. It has led to the securing of Thomas, Haven and Dewey plates for use in the books received from them or bought with their funds. I recommend the addition of a George E. Ellis book-plate, to complete our collection, and that the design be that adopted for those above named. Our founder's library-the basis of our great collection-has added value in the fact that his plate appears in so many of its books. It is the Thomas coat of arms with the name Isaiah Thomas engraved below it. Its motto is "Nec elatus nec dejectus."