Herbert Putnam, a pivotal figure in American librarianship, served as the eighth Librarian of Congress for four decades, revolutionizing the institution and significantly influencing the nation's library system. This article delves into his life, career, and enduring contributions.
Quick Information
| Full Name | George Herbert Putnam |
|---|---|
| Known As | Herbert Putnam |
| Profession | Librarian, Librarian of Congress |
| Born | September 20, 1861 |
| Birthplace | New York City, New York, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Spouse | Charlotte Elizabeth Munroe |
| Children | Brenda Putnam, Shirley Putnam |
Early Life and Background
Born into a literary family in New York City on September 20, 1861, Herbert Putnam was the son of George Palmer Putnam, founder of the publishing house G. P. Putnam's Sons. Surrounded by books and intellectual discourse from an early age, Putnam developed a profound appreciation for literature. He graduated from Harvard University in 1883 and briefly studied at Columbia Law School before committing to a career in librarianship.
Early Career
Putnam began his library career as the librarian of the Minneapolis Public Library in 1884, where he implemented innovative management and cataloging systems. His success there paved the way for future roles and set a foundation for his transformative work in the field.
Career Highlights
Boston Public Library
In 1895, Putnam took on the role of librarian at the Boston Public Library. He expanded services, enhanced collections, and reinforced the library's role in public education and community engagement.
Librarian of Congress
Appointed by President William McKinley in 1899, Putnam served as the Librarian of Congress for 40 years. His tenure marked a period of significant growth and modernization for the Library of Congress.
Key Innovations and Contributions
Library of Congress Classification System
Putnam developed the Library of Congress Classification (LCC) system, replacing the outdated fixed location system with a more flexible and efficient organizational method. This system remains in use today, underscoring its effectiveness and Putnam's foresight.
Expansion and Modernization
Under his leadership, the Library of Congress saw extensive expansion, including the construction of the Thomas Jefferson Building. His efforts accommodated the growing needs of researchers and the public, significantly enhancing the library's capacity and services.
Advocacy for Interlibrary Cooperation
A proponent of interlibrary cooperation, Putnam established partnerships with other libraries and institutions to share resources and knowledge, thereby enriching the library's offerings.
Support for American Soldiers
During World War I, Putnam initiated programs to provide American soldiers with access to books and educational materials, recognizing the importance of intellectual resources for morale and well-being.
Personal Life
Putnam married Charlotte Elizabeth Munroe, and they had two daughters. His family life provided stability and support, enabling him to dedicate himself to public service.
Legacy and Impact
Putnam's career is punctuated with achievements that have left a lasting imprint on the library world. In 1940, he was awarded honorary membership in the American Library Association (ALA), and upon retirement in 1939, he was named Librarian Emeritus of the Library of Congress.
Conclusion
Herbert Putnam's visionary leadership and dedication transformed the Library of Congress and set new standards for libraries globally. His legacy continues to inspire and influence librarians and library professionals, demonstrating the profound impact of dedicated leadership on an institution and a profession.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Herbert Putnam?
Herbert Putnam was an influential American librarian who served as the Librarian of Congress from 1899 to 1939. He is celebrated for modernizing library practices and expanding the Library of Congress.
What is the Library of Congress Classification system?
Developed by Herbert Putnam, the Library of Congress Classification (LCC) system is a flexible and efficient method for organizing library collections, widely adopted in libraries worldwide.
What are Herbert Putnam's major achievements?
Herbert Putnam's major achievements include the development of the LCC system, the expansion of the Library of Congress, and his advocacy for interlibrary cooperation. He also supported American soldiers during World War I with access to educational materials.
What is Herbert Putnam's legacy?
Herbert Putnam's legacy lies in his contributions to modernizing library practices, expanding the Library of Congress, and promoting interlibrary cooperation. His work continues to set standards and inspire library professionals around the world.
