INTRODUCTION. 
XXXI 
embraces, is perhaps equalled by few in the 
world, is, as has been above observed, committed 
to the care of forty-three Trustees.* These hold 
regularly quarterly General Meetings, monthly 
Committees, and annual Visitations, besides extra¬ 
meetings of each description, according as exigen¬ 
cies may require. In these meetings are framed 
and enforced the bye-laws and the regulations 
for the government and preservation of the Insti¬ 
tution ; the expenditure of the funds are here 
ordered and controuled, and every precautionary 
step is taken for the safety of the buildings, and 
the proper application of the whole for the 
intended purposes of public utility. Although 
paramount in their powers, yet are they, from 
time to time, called upon by Parliament to lay 
before them statements of their accounts and 
various proceedings. 
d he establishment of Officers consists, at 
present, of a principal Librarian appointed 
by His Majesty, and of four Under and four 
Assistant 
* Official Trustees. 
7 nominated by the representatives of the Sloane, Cotton, 
Harley, and Towneley Families ; and 
15 elected by the above Official and Family Trustees. 
Establishment 
of Officers, 
