The Everyday Reference Library

As I was sorting my books when I was unpacking, I came across "The Everyday Reference Library", copyright 1957 (1st copyright 1948). It is about as thick as a hardbound dictionary and organized like an encyclopedia. The book is divided in 3 parts:
Part I; Usable Information For Your Home
Part II; Usable Information About Business
Part III; Usable Information for Self-Improvement and Recreation.

The book really is a reference book for nearly all aspects of a persons life (circa 1950's). But the irony is, most of the advice that I have come across in the book still pertains; not that I am really surprised by this fact.

Some random section heading selection and excerpts:

Choosing Appropriate Words
"Adjectives describing food: delectable, luscious, succulent, rancid"

Pointers on Hanging Up Clothes for Drying
"Large pieces, such as sheet and tablecloths, should be hung on the same line, wrong side out so that they may be folded over on the right side before removing from the line"

Suggested Budgeting Plan
"For $5000 per year; Shelter 20%, food 28%, clothing 16%, operating expenses 14%, other expenses 15%, savings 7%."

What is Salesmanship?
"Originally the function of salesmanship seemed to be the quantity selling of goods. If a customer needed one hat, the salesman tried to sell him tow or three. Later the customer looked at his unwanted purchases and determined not to return to the store again. The modern function of salesmanship is to produce a satisfied customer who can be counted upon to return."

If you can track down a copy, it is an interesting read; albeit in an encyclopedic and sometimes stereo instruction manner. From time to time, I will post more excerpts.