First U.S. edition. A history and overview of public libraries in England in the late ninteenth century. Discusses libraries in England prior to 1855, the "Free Public Library Movement," library administration and organization, and various libraries in various locations, with statistics. Index. This volume is part of "The Library Series" edited by Dr. R. Garnett. Library name blind-stamped on covers, library spine label, library stamp on title page. Covers stained, scuffed, cloth worn through in several places. Front hinge starting to crack on inside.