An examination of fifty years of published research literature in American library history that was facilitated by the Library History Round Table reveals a significant and welcome increase in the diversity of coverage but a relative dearth of theoretical perspective. The author argues that after establishing a substantial base of quality literature, the time has now come for American library historians to harness ideas articulated by critical theorists in order to examine a social construction of reality and a process of cultural consumption. He also argues that American library historians need to join with social and cultural historians to help locate the library in a larger context of social and cultural forces.
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