Charles Henry Gould

Charles Henry Gould, librarian of McGill University and president of the American Library Association, 1908-09, is son of Joseph G. and Abigail (DeWitt) Gould, the latter a daughter of the late Jacob DeWitt, M. P., of Montreal. Born in Montreal on the 6th of December, 1855, Charles H. Gould pursued his education in the city schools through successive grades until he completed the high school course, after which he entered McGill University and was graduated B. A. with first rank honors in 1877, also winning the Chapman medal in classics. Through the succeeding scholastic year he devoted some time to post-graduate work in physics. With the completion of his education he entered business circles, in which he continued for several years. He afterward took up the study of library economy and also spent some time in travel before entering upon his present connection as librarian of McGill University. For twenty years he has filled his present position with eminent ability, having entered upon his duties in September, 1893. He was made governor’s fellow in 1891. There is no Canadian, perhaps, who has made a more thorough study of the work and opportunities of the librarian than has Charles Henry Gould, and realizing the deficiencies of many who undertake the librarian’s task, he founded the McGill School for Librarians in 1904. His prominence in his chosen field is indicated in his election to the first vice presidency of the American Library Association for 1907 and 1908 and his subsequent election to the presidency for 1908-9. He has continued his labors at McGill although offered the appointment of associate librarian of the public library of Brooklyn, New York, in 1908, and that of librarian of the Toronto public library. A fellow of the American Library Institute, he belongs to the Champlain Society, was president of the Bibliographical Society of America 1912-13 and is a member of other bodies which have for their basis the promotion of scientific and literary knowledge. He is also a member of the University Club, and the Canada Journal names him as a loyal and valuable citizen.