Retrospective bibliographical services in the social sciences

A retrospective bibliographical service is defined as one compiled for permanent retention and for a general use. Because of its reference and retention functions a library such as BML will always be a source for older material and while seeking contemporary coverage as part of its reference functions, it will not always be in the position to give current service of a quick turnover, specialized documentation centre, much as we should like to do so. Our strength will continue to lie in the wide range of material held and in our long back files, and while compilation is based upon works held in the BML, the roots of an adequate bibliographic service are in a wide ranging acquisitions policy.