18 



give the general public an idea of the ravages of " noxious insects," 

 and as to the best means for their destruction, and the preserva- 

 tion of valuable plants. 



It is proposed that during the coming year the work of col- 

 lecting, mounting and exhibiting, shall be carried out as com- 

 pletely as is possible, to show the life history of our local insects, 

 and no opportunity will be lost that will further such an end. 



In addition to the exhibition collection, one for study and com- 

 parison will be arranged in cabinets, from which duplicates can 

 be obtained to replace faded and broken specimens in the exhi- 

 bition class. 



As far as is possible, insects of this locality will be collected 

 and used for exchanges. 



There seems to be no reason why this collection cannot be made 

 one of the finest in the world, and no more important center for 

 its study and exhibition can be found than in New York City. 



Many of the finest collections of North American insects have 

 been purchased by the European museums, and while they at 

 present lead us in this department, there seems to be no reason 

 why this Museum should not soon step in the first ranks and lead 

 the world. 



When it is known and established that the collection is being 

 cared for, and an interest shown in its extension, the public will 

 have more confidence in its management, and many collections 

 now in obscurity will be presented to it as the best means for their 

 preservation and exhibition, and as a lasting monument to many 

 an earnest man's industry. 



LIBRARY. 



[Under the charge of Mr. A. Woodward.] 



The additions to the Library this year, through various means, 

 have exceeded any previous year. The books and pamphlets re- 

 ceived have amounted to : volumes, 1,559 ; Nos. and parts, 516 ; 

 pamphlets, 1,149. 



By Application (Librarian). . . . 191 Vols. 197 Nos. and Parts. 57 Pamphlets. 



Exchange (Bulletin) 36 " 182 90 " 



(Duplicates) 10 " 2 15 " 



Donations 439 " 135 75 " 



Purchase 883 " ... 912 " 



Total 1,559 5i6 M49 



These additions include books, transactions, memoirs, periodi- 

 cals, pamphlets and maps ; also the Palasontological and Geolog- 

 ical Library of Prof. R. P. Whitfield, by purchase. 



