Secondary publications have a future in libraries

When I looked at the summaries of the other speakers at our conference today, I wondered what there was left for me to say. Everything of importance on the subject seemed to have already been covered. Perhaps I should talk about the remote future; some distinguished members of our fraternity earn an honest crust doing so. The Director of Aslib does so with flair and panache. A rather good model to follow, I thought. Earlier this month I chaired a conference where Dennis Lewis gave the last paper of the day and his address was concerned with the future. At this conference we handed out questionnaires for the audience to give their opinions on the speakers—a dangerous practice, Mr Chairman, I am glad to see that you haven't copied it today. Dr Lewis' paper was very well received and there were numerous complimentary remarks. One member of the audience added the comment: ‘Why is it that whenever I go to a meeting or conference, Dennis Lewis is there talking about the future?’ The writer did add: ‘Perhaps because he has something to say that we should all hear!’