OCR Text |
Show xxxn BUREAU OF AMERICAN ETHNOLOGY A class of property of some importance is the accumulated residue of publications. The greater part of the edition of the reports available for distribution by the Bureau is sent to exchanges and correspondents immediately on issue, but a limited number of copies of each edition remains for distribution in accordance with subsequent demands. The residue of the several editions not completely exhausted is kept under the supervision of Mr F. W. Hodge. The editions of most of the reports are exhausted; the undistributed residue consists of about 4,300 volumes. A somewhat important class of property, though of limited value, is office furniture, with the requisite stationery for current use, as well as photographic apparatus and material. The aggregate value of the furniture and apparatus is less than $ 2,500. The custody and use of furniture, apparatus, stationery, and other materials are regulated by a custodial system devised for the purpose, which has been found to work satisfactorily. A considerable number of original engravings used for the illustration of reports are catalogued and airanged in cases in the office of the Bureau, while the original copy for illustrations is also preserved, so far as is practicable, in charge of the illustrator. The stereotype plates from which the reports are printed are, from time to time, turned over to the Bureau by the Public Printer. These are stored partly in the Smithsonian building, partly in the basement of the building in which the office is located. Experience has shown that, under existing conditions, it is inexpedient to acquire field property in any considerable amount, since the cost of purchase and maintenance of animals, vehicles, and camp equipage exceeds the charges for hire; accordingly, there is practically no field property in the possession of the Bureau. The collaborators engaged in field operations collect ethnological material, in greater or less quantities, for purposes of study. All such material is transferred to the National Museum, and commonly its study is carri -. on within that building. |