"Never Read Any Book That is Not a Year Old"*

Abstract

Analyses the effect upon libraries and the book trade of the Supreme Court decision (439 US 522) which, in essence, stated that inventories were not tax-deductible at rates different from their market value. The "Thor" decision has led to publishers being reluctant to maintain stocks of unsold books. The change in a forprofit industry (publishing) affects a non-profit sector (libraries). The author calls for more mutual understanding between these two sectors, and suggests methods for libraries to maintain healthy collections in the face of the realities of the publishing industry.