Pacific Manuscripts

Spc’S Useful Work

In Preserving

ONE of the functions of the SP Commission is to locate and preserve valuable manuscripts on the Pacific Islands.

They are usually grammars, dictionaries, vernacular text books and similar linguistic works. But many manuscript histories, studies of local peoples, collections of folklore, family records and the like are also known to exist.

Many were destroyed in the last war and many also have been lost through shipwreck, accident or the ravages of climate and insects.

When located, the owner of such a manuscript is asked to loan it to the Commission for photocopying and immediate return—the Com mission to pay all costs. Refusals have been rare. Occasionally the SPC has been requested to pass on the work, when it has been copied, to a library or scientific institute or library for permanent safe keeping.

Over 35 works—some of consider able importance—have so far been copied on Microfilm which is much cheaper than making photostat copies.

Have You A Forgotten

Manuscript?

Every effort is being made to trace manuscripts, but it is certain that hundreds exist which will be lost unless action is taken to ensure their preservation. The South Pacific Commission would like to hear from anyone owning or knowing the whereabouts of such a work. They should contact Mr. H.

E. Maude, the Executive Officer for Social Development, SPC, Box 5254, GPO, Sydney. Full details of each manuscript are published in the.

Commission’s Quarterly Bulletin.