T. J. Wise and the City Librarian: Bibliographical Research — 1917 Style

Abstract

During the course of 1917, there was an energetic correspondence between Thomas James Wise of London, who was preparing to publish a bibliography of the Brontë family, and Butler Wood, City Librarian of Bradford and Bibliographic Secretary of the Brontë Society. Wise, who compiled many bibliographies, came to rely on Wood's knowledge of sources and people for the publications, newspapers, and information he needed. The bibliography was prepared to a high standard and required that every source be checked. This correspondence gives a graphic insight into how bibliographic research was undertaken in the days before formal interlibrary lending and electronic databases. In particular, it demonstrates the value of personal knowledge and contacts, the shortcomings of the British Museum Library, and the international nature of such a venture.

Keywords:

• BIBLIOGRAPHY
• BRONTË FAMILY
• CORRESPONDENCE
• LITERARY RESEARCH
• TJ WISE
• BUTLER WOOD