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International Exchange. —Owing to war exigencies this activity of the Library was considerably restricted until the arrival late in the year of a large consignment of publications from the United States. We received 25 cases (of which 16 were for this Library), and we posted or delivered 2,720 packages to other Departments and private addresses. This compares with 10 cases and 2,594 packages in the previous year. Recess Privileges.—The frequency of parliamentary sessions seems now to be better understood by recess-privileges holders, whose numbers are again growing. This year we had 475, compared with 308 last year, 289 the year before, 516 in 1939-40, and 790 in 1938-39. During the recess 95 baskets and 268 parcels were posted to members of Parliament. I have pleasure in recording my appreciation of the work of the staff during a trying year ; of the efficiency with which the High Commissioner's Office has carried out our book orders ; and of the consideration and sympathetic interest shown by the Joint Library Committee in our work. The statement of receipts and expenditure for the year, with the Auditor-General's certificate, is attached. I am, &c., G. H. Scholejteld, Chief Librarian and Archivist.

GENERAL ASSEMBLY LIBRARY ACCOUNT Statement foe the Year ending 31st March, 1943 Receipts £ Payments Balance .. .. .. .. 1,002 Purchase of books and periodicals in—■ £ Annual grant .. .. .. .. 1,250 United Kingdom and United States .. .. 841 Refunds, lost books, &c. .. .. .. II Australia.. .. .. .. .. 28 Private Bill fees .. .. .. .. 25 New Zealand .. .. .. .. 225 Bank charge and petty expenses .. .. X Balance, Bank of New Zealand .. .. 1,193 £2,288 £2,288 G. H. Scholefield, Chief Librarian. Examined and found correct. —Cyril G. Collins, Controller and Auditor-General. 25th May, 1943.

Approximate Cod of Paper.—Preparation, not given ; printing (U I copies), £2 10s.

By Authority: E. V. Paul, Government Printer, Wellington.—l 943. Price 3d.]

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