copies of an ancient statue, and on the wall above, between the cases of
shelves, may hang a few pictures, not necessarily bookish in suggestion,
but reposeful in subject and tone, such as landscapes and marines.

A writing desk of comfortable size, with its chair, is essential in
every library. It should be as far away as possible from the type of
the modern business desk, and therefore an old-fashioned article with
a sloping top, which, when let down, serves for the writing board,
is an ideal form. Manufacturers continue to make these desks for home
purposes.

The library table should be large and simple. One that is oval in shape
is the best for the family to gather about, and therefore gives the most
homelike appearance. The illumination of the library should center
either upon this table, if a lamp is used, or above it, if gas or
electric light. The desk should have a side-light of its own.

Modern library conveniences are presented in so handy and presentable
shapes that the room may be perfectly equipped as a literary workshop
without crowding it, or detracting from its appearance. A dictionary
holder (wooden, not wire), a revolving bookcase for other works of
reference, and a card index of the library may complete the equipment.
It will be well to utilize one or more of the drawers of the desk as
a file for clippings. These should be kept in stout manila envelopes,
slightly less in size than the width and height of the drawer, and with
the names of subjects contained, and arranged in alphabetical order.

The carpet should be plain in design, and underlaid with padding. The
curtains should be of heavier and darker stuff than those in the parlor,
and easily adjusted to admit the light.