{"value"=>"<p>Arranged chronologically by date sent. The years 1895-1909 are primarily represented by incoming correspondence, while the remaining years, 1909-1914, consist of mostly outgoing correspondence. The subseries covers such topics as the consolidation of the Astor, Tilden, and Lenox Libraries to form NYPL; NYPL's absorption of other libraries (including the Aguilar and the New York Free Circulating Libraries); early print acquisitions; and exhibitions (1911). There is abundant material regarding the NYPL Central Building competition, as well as concerning its planning and construction. From as early as 1896, explicit mention is made of the 42nd Street site. During the ensuing fifteen years correspondence concerning site acquisition, funding, planning, and construction accounts for the bulk of the subseries. Highlights include Cadwalader's penciled annotations for the final competition designs. Memoranda are represented in almost every part of the correspondence and include commentary for early exhibitions of Library materials, a draft for The Library's accession policy (1896) and discussions on the exemption of humanitarian and charitable societies from the tax on collateral inheritance. From 1900 to 1913, a discussion evolves concerning exemptions from estate and inheritance taxes for charitable institutions and possible ramifications of this repeal for The Library. Other subjects include copyright law in relation to NYPL's book importation policy and Branch Library property purchases. Notably, a heated exchange about The Library's opening hours developed in 1912, involving Cadwalader, other trustees and contemporary newspapers. Also included are papers relating to the consolidation of the Free Circulating Libraries and NYPL. The correspondence gives glimpses into Cadwalader's personal life. There are numerous notes and lists addressed to John Shaw Billings and E.H. Anderson concerning books that he decided to purchase himself. Individuals who figure prominently in the correspondence include George Rives, John Shaw Billings, Edwin Hatfield Anderson, William Allen Butler, Steven H. Olin, Charles Howland Russell, Wilberforce Eames, and Robert de Forest.</p>"}