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Show -2- (5) The collection comprises a tremendous set of dictionaries, encyclopedias and reference works. It has, for instance, the new editions of the Encyclopedia of Islam, the Jewish Encyclopedia and Brockelmann's Gesch. d. aral, Litt. (6 ) It contains a fair number of periodical and serial collections such as Osiris, Isis, Ambix, Melanges de l'Institut d'Etudes Orientales, etc. (7) Though Arab and Hebrew science is prominent on the shelves, stray monumental works on Hindu and Chinese science can be found here and there. In addition, there is a fair amount of standard reference works on historical geography (e.g. Beazley, ebn Battula etc), literature (Browne), bibliography (Brockelmann, Gref etc.), technology (Sarton, Singer, etc.). (8) Rare material is not wanting. Examples: The Rhind Medical Papyri, the Hammurabi Code, The Edwin Smith Papyri, Coptic Papyri, etc, all out of print for a long time. Like all collections, this one necessarily includes some doubles of books we possess, especially in our vast Arabic collection. These can be segregated with others in other languages and used for exchange or sale as a lot to any bookseller and I am sure I can find the right candidate for this purpose in due course. In fine, this Library will be a great enrichment to the Middle East collection - including both Arabic and Hebr^ica - together with all the University departments with an interest in the philosophy and history of science. I feel, however, that we must act fast in order not to force Mrs. Martin Levey to invite other competitors. Hitherto, I understand that there is note yet. The material estimate of the collection should be a subject for personal consultation in which I shall be happy to participate. Aziz S. Atiya |
