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-And there's this twelve thousand dollars item for books…

“-And there's this twelve thousand dollars item for books. -That supposed to be twelve hundred, the twelve thousand is for paper. towels. Besides there is already that bequest for the library. -Did it say books in so many words? No. It's just a bequest for the library. -Use it for pegboard. You…” quote by William Gaddis
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““-And there's this twelve thousand dollars item for books. -That supposed to be twelve hundred, the twelve thousand is for paper. towels. Besides there is already that bequest for the library. -Did it say books in so many words? No. It's just a bequest for the library. -Use it for pegboard. You need pegboard in a library. Books you don't know what you're getting into.””

William Gaddis

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

A character debates how to allocate a large sum meant for books, highlighting bureaucratic confusion and misallocation of resources.

In simple terms: Misunderstanding leads to wasted money.

Key Takeaway

Clarify intent before spending.

Themes

bureaucracy misallocation library budget communication

Mood

frustrated irritated critical

Type

advice cautionary

When to use this quote

  • library budgeting
  • grant administration
  • donor intent
  • policy drafting

Key Concepts

resource management institutional oversight financial planning

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can organizations ensure funds are used as intended?
  • What safeguards prevent misinterpretation of donor wishes?
A Different Perspective

Funds may be diverted if purposes aren't explicitly defined.

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