Rózsa György (szerk.): The Library of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, 1826–1976.

Preface

holdings containing a special literature of more than 2,5 million items are at the disposal of scholars and scientists, of which the central Library contains 1,5 million items. The days when the Library simply shelved books for use by exclusive visitors are long gone. In accordance with recent demands the Library's function has undergone considerable changes. Its active role in the extensive support of creative work has developed and its transformation into a scientific institute is also of great moment. It helps public activities and research not only with its regular information on acquisitions of old and rare books and of recent ones as well as periodicals of major importance, it helps not only with its exchange relations involving 1 600 institutions of about 90 countries, but, in the first place, with its substantial information service on science policy and bibliography, moreover with the research work of its own staff it contributes to the developing of the country. This booklet gives only an outline of the Library and some of its major characteristic activities, commemorating respectfully the 150th anniversary of its foundation and manifesting — with responsibility towards the country — its present function of serving progress. Budapest, March 1976. President of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences 6