Having served overlapping terms as the librarian (1966-80) and the executive officer (1977-1983) of the American Philosophical Society, Bell (1914-2009) scoured the archives to find information about men elected to the The American Philosophical Society for Promoting Useful Knowledge, during the two years from when it was founded to when it merged with the American Philosophical Society, itself founded in 1747 but moribund for some years. Here 106 are profiled, the articles emphasizing the subject's relationship to the Society, but also covering his personal life in terms of birth, education, marriage children, and death. Bell himself was able to complete most of the sketches before deteriorating health prevented his work. His long-time friend and colleague, APS Associate Librarian Charles B. Greifenstein, wrapped up the project. This third volume completes the coverage before the merger. Annotation 2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
