The Beginnings of the Library in Charles Town, South Carolina.

The article presents an examination into the early history and formation of the town library of Charleston, South Carolina at the turn of the 18th century. Details are given highlighting the work and advocacy of the Anglican priest Thomas Bray to establish the Church of England's mission parishes within the colonial region. Bray's insistence on the need for a competent library collection for the colonial clergy is addressed and documentation of his fund raising and early collection development for several of the colonies, particularly South Carolina, is provided. An appendix is also included listing over 200 of the titles included in his collection.