История библиотек

The book "История библиотек" (History of Libraries) by Нина Александровна Ефимова is a comprehensive historical study focusing on the development and evolution of libraries, particularly in the context of the Public Library in St. Petersburg. Here is a detailed overview of the book:

Key Themes

1. Historical Context: The book provides a detailed historical account of the Public Library in St. Petersburg, spanning from its inception to the late 19th century.
2. Library Development: It explores the organizational structure, reader demographics, and the services provided by the library during the specified period (1850-1895).
3. Reader Demographics: The study delves into the characteristics of the library's readers, including their social backgrounds and reading habits.
4. Organizational Evolution: The book examines how the library's organizational practices evolved over time, including changes in staffing, cataloging, and reader services.

Plot Summary

The book is divided into two main chapters, each covering a different period of the library's history. The first chapter focuses on the early years of the library, detailing its establishment, initial reader demographics, and the early organizational structures. The second chapter explores the mid-to-late 19th century, discussing significant changes in reader demographics, the expansion of library services, and the impact of these changes on the library's overall operation.

Critical Reception

While specific critical reviews of the book are not readily available in the sources provided, we can infer the significance of the work based on the author's background and contributions to the field of library studies.

• Author's Expertise: Нина Александровна Ефимова was a highly qualified specialist in library science, as evident from her academic background and professional career. She was involved in the creation of the "History of the Public Library," which suggests that her work was highly regarded and contributed significantly to the field.
• Monograph Contributions: The book is part of a larger monograph series, co-authored with other notable figures in library science, indicating its importance within academic circles.

Additional Context

The book is not only a historical account but also a scholarly contribution to the field of library studies. It provides a detailed analysis of the organizational and service-related aspects of the Public Library in St. Petersburg, offering insights that were likely invaluable for both historians and librarians at the time of its publication.

In summary, "История библиотек" by Нина Александровна Ефимова is a meticulously researched historical study that offers a comprehensive understanding of the Public Library in St. Petersburg during the 19th century. Its themes of historical context, organizational evolution, and reader demographics make it a significant contribution to the field of library science.