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"The history of radio is fascinating, and the
technical details of the art and science of radiotelegraphy and
radiotelephony are continually changing. Since Tesla(!) invented
radio, and Marconi's first transatlantic transmissions in 1901,
amateur radio clubs have supported this fascinating area of human
endeavor by erecting antennas, establishing stations, and
maintaining libraries. From the sparkgap era to PSK31, from
handkeys to the latest keyers and microphones, the documentation
of the hobby has been continuous. The library at The Radio Club of
Tacoma is one of the oldest in the nation, and there is a rich
treasure here of old and new information.
The Library Committee and the Board of W7DK aim to maintain a collection of high quality documenting the history of amateur radio as well as covering the most current technical details. As the photos show, the holdings include a priceless series of QST's, historic books, schematics for radios over the last 100 years, ARRL technical publications, and many other interesting volumes. The library exists for club members to enjoy, so please come by and take a look. Books and magazines do not circulate at the present time, but there is a photocopy machine at the clubhouse. Through volunteer efforts, we are close to having books cataloged and labeled, a computer station (with printer) for QST articles, and a reading space. Volunteer labors are just that--volunteer--so be patient with the progress. If you have ideas you would like to share about the library, or items to donate, send a message to Librarian Doug Oakman AD7AV oakmande@plu.edu. -- 73 to all." The library team members are:
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Radio Club of Tacoma Library
Purpose, Policies, and Projects as of January
13, 2006
Purpose
The library exists to preserve the history of
the club and of radio as well as provide up-to-date technical
information to members.
Policies for Library Assessment and
Management
1. Limited space requires careful selection
of materials for RCT library collection
2. Priority given to items related to the
history of the Radio Club of Tacoma
3. Priority given to items recording the
history of radio or radio operations
4. Priority given to items necessary for
up-to-date understanding of radio theory, construction, or
operations (especially FCC, ARRL, other important amateur radio
organizations)
5. New items will be acquired over time in
accord with previous criteria
6. Library items do not circulate
7. Library policy and projects are approved
by the RCT Board
Current projects under oversight of the
Library Committee
1. Weeding or culling of library to make
space for new items
2. Enhancing the usefulness of the library by
selective new acquisitions
3. Deciding about acceptance of donated items
4. Stamping and labeling of library items,
computer cataloging of library items
5. Fitting new shelving to make the library
more accessible and the upstairs more inviting of use
6. Securing items of extraordinary value
(special archives)
7. Establishing a library computer terminal
upstairs for work with library catalog and select on-line
reading materials
Project in conjunction with Club
Historian
Archiving old pictures with identification
information.
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| A very small sample of the old and priceless books pertaining to the history of radio on display in the RCT Library. |
| New Photos...Soon | New Photos...Soon |
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The RCT Library has
QST magazines, and other amateur radio publications, that date
back to 1916.
NOTE: The Library area is under construction to create more modern-more useable shelving. The shelves pictured above have been replaced with new. Stop by the Clubhouse and check out the progress. |
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