History of the Plasma Physics Library: 1962-1972

The Plasma Physics Laboratory began with the creation of a program in fusion research called Project Matterhorn, at Princeton University in 1952. The work was declassified in 1958, and in 1961 the name of the laboratory changed to its present form [Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory] to denote the growing scope of its research efforts; basic plasma physics, astrophysics and space physics, as well as the expansion of studies in controlled fusion. A small collection of reports, journal and monographs housed in a vault composed the early library. In 1960, Firestone Library [main Princeton University library] was asked to obtain a librarian as the collection started to expand rapidly after declassification. When asked to become the librarian in 1961, Elizabeth Graydon accepted the challenge with enthusiasm, for much work had to be done. Under the direction of Dr. E.C. Tanner, chairman of the Library Committee, PPL Library undertook to fully catalog the reports collection as well as the few books, as most of the literature in this new field resided in reports and journal articles.

The laboratory recognizing the need for this cataloging program obtained two college freshman to work for three summers in order to complete this work [1962/1963].

The Acquisition List, which was begun in 1960, grew in size, scope, and format, so that currently [1972] 141 copies are distributed. [Note: as of July 1998 the acquisitions list is distributed via the Internet http://www.pppl.gov/library/acq.html]. The monthly list from 1960-1998 was unique in that it was reproduced from actual catalog cards.

During the years [between 1960 to 1970] the library [grew] considerably. The emphasis is now changing, however, due to the success of the work performed at the laboratory. In early years we were primarily concerned with the staff members of the Theoretical Division. In the middle years [1960-1969], as the experiments on fusion devices were progressing, we found the Experimental Division calling with more frequency upon the library. In 1971 we were asked to add a new dimension to the library, by creating the Fusion Power Library. This was brought about because Dr. Robert G. Mills was asked to head the Reactor Studies Group. This is a group of engineers and physicists from this laboratory as well as from laboratories and industry throughout the world, who have been asked to explore the feasibility of developing a toroidal fusion power reactor. This small library, housed in the Engineering Division, contains about 1,000 reports, reprints, monographs, symposia and journals devoted to Energy, Electric Power and Reactor Studies. This collection is fully cataloged and a card catalog listing all items is maintained. Also, complete catalog card sets are filed in the main catalog.

This new project had been very challenging, and to see this collection being used with great frequency is a source of satisfaction. Further, we look forward to this collection being used by other staff members of the University.

After ten years we can compare figures and see growth.
1962 1972
Reports
Books
Journals		 601
218
551
1,370		 Reports
Books
Journals
Microfiche		 9,406
2,400
1,855
1,612
15,273

(bound)
 
The cooperation, appreciation, and interest evidenced by the PPL Staff are most gratifying, The operation of this library, today more than ever, is a challenging and stimulating experience.

Elizabeth H. Graydon
July 5, 1972

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