(216) 
the mainentrance. An additional case for lantern slides has 
been built to accommodate the large increase, especially in 
colored slides, during the year. 
Two new cameras especially built for use in the field have 
been added to the photographic outfit. In spite of the large 
amount of photographic work connected with the increased 
lecture courses and the development of the living collections, 
it has been possible to so arrange it that practically all of this 
work has been done: by the regular photographer within the 
usual hours set apart for this purpose. 
On account of the great and increasing value of the books 
in the library, it has been deemed advisable to close this room 
henceforth at 5 P. M. in winter and 6 p. M. during the re- 
mainder of the year, and to allow no artificial light in it, except 
that of an electric hand-lamp, without the order of the Director 
or First Assistant. This arrangement also makes it possible 
to have the room under the direct charge of the Librarian or 
an assistant during the whole time that it is open. Members 
of the Staff may obtain books from the Librarian as formerly 
for use in the building during the evening. 
CoNSERVATORIES 
Considerable painting has been done on the interior of the 
public greenhouses during the year; and a force pump has 
been installed for use in watering the palms and other tall 
plants, especially in house no. 1. The water-lilies in the 
court of the conservatories made a very satisfactory showing 
during the summer. Considerable use has been made of the 
Guide to the Conservatories published in the March number 
of the JouRNAL, and its distribution has awakened a wider 
and more intelligent interest in the collections there. A por- 
tion of the basement is at present used for repairs and storage 
of machinery and implements, but it is hoped that a separate 
building for this purpose may be erected at an early date. 
The propagating houses are in a satisfactory condition. 
The loft has been improved by the addition of a skylight and 
a dark-room for photographic purposes. An additional house 
