H.—29

19

The work of those firms holding grading licenses appears to have given general satisfaction. As a measure of economy it was decided to withdraw the subsidy that was being paid to the Grader at Dunedin. Since then the Dunedin grain-merchants have appointed a grader and are paying the subsidy themselves. This grader does not hold a Government license, but his certificates are accepted by the grain trade. DEPARTMENTAL LIBRARY. During the year the Department's central library has been installed in more ample space at the new headquarters of the Department in the Dominion Farmers' Institute Building. The arrangement and general system have been greatly improved (under Mr. B. C. Aston's supervision), and facilities for prompt reference much increased. Cataloguing of the books according to the Dewey system is being proceeded with, and cards are being prepared of all books in the branch libraries of the Department throughout the Dominion, a complete record being thus kept at the central library. Cards are also being prepared of important articles appearing in the world's agricultural press. Technical and other agricultural journals are circulated among the Department's expert officers as they come to hand. Members of this and other Departments are making increased use of the library, and much of the time of the officer in charge is given to looking up various information pertaining to agricultural matters. The library is also consulted by scientists, farmers, agricultural writers, &c, who find information here that is not obtainable elsewhere. As time goes on and the financial stress ceases it is hoped to be able to obtain a greater number of the most up-to-date books on agriculture and the allied sciences more promptly as issued. C. J. Reakes, D.V.Sc, M.R.C.V.S., Director-General.

Approximate Cost of Paper. —Preparation, not given ; printing (625 copies), £24.

Authority : W. A. G. Skinnbb, Government Printer, Wellington.—l922.

Price 9d.]