Editorial Standards
Purpose of the catalogue
The EQOOK Public Domain Literature Library exists to make historical texts accessible to readers who may not have the time or expertise to evaluate them independently. Each entry provides context through editorial notes that highlight the work's content, structure, and significance. The catalogue does not aim to replace the original texts but to serve as a guide for exploration.
Scope and selection
The library currently contains 97 works sourced from Project Gutenberg. Selection is driven by historical interest, diversity of perspective, and the availability of high-quality digital editions. The collection emphasises American and European history from the 19th and early 20th centuries, with a particular focus on wars, social movements, and daily life. No work has been excluded on ideological grounds, though the catalogue notes may address controversial or problematic content.
Source attribution
All texts are attributed to their original publishers and authors as recorded by Project Gutenberg. Where works are anonymous or compiled, the catalogue notes the contributing entities. The catalogue does not conduct independent verification of copyright status but follows Project Gutenberg's public-domain determinations.
Bibliographic records
Each record includes the title, author(s), publisher, keywords, target reader, and a catalogue note. The target reader field is a general indication, not a restriction. Keywords are derived from the Library of Congress Subject Headings or similar authority lists where available. The catalogue note is written by the editor and reflects a reading of the work.
Category assignment
Works are grouped into three categories based on thematic and methodological similarities. These categories are not definitive literary judgments but navigation aids. Some works may fit multiple categories; in such cases, the editor chooses the most salient grouping. Categories are described in separate guides that explain the rationale and offer recommendations.
Editorial reading context
The catalogue notes are based on a reading of each work's preface, structure, and representative excerpts. The editor does not claim to have read every word of every book. The notes aim to be accurate about the work's content but are not comprehensive summaries. They are written for a general audience interested in historical texts.
Edition facts and text measurements
When available, the catalogue includes information about the edition used for the digital version, such as original publication date and publisher. Text measurements (e.g., word count, page count) are not provided, as these vary between formats. Readers should consult the original source for such details.
Recommendations and related works
Each category guide recommends three distinct works from within that category. Recommendations are based on the work's historical importance, readability, and representativeness of the category. Related works may be suggested in the archive's reading paths but are not systematically cross-referenced.
Corrections and reader reports
Readers who identify factual errors in catalogue notes or have additional context about a work are encouraged to contact the editor at the contact page. The catalogue is updated periodically to incorporate verified corrections.
Public-domain limitations
All works in the catalogue are believed to be in the public domain in the United States. Readers outside the U.S. should verify local copyright status. The catalogue does not guarantee that every work is free of rights in all jurisdictions. The editor cannot provide legal advice.
Accessibility and readable presentation
The catalogue uses simple HTML with semantic elements and avoids complex layouts. All text is provided in a single-column format. The site is designed to be navigable with screen readers and keyboard controls. Images are not used in editorial content.
Independence and editorial responsibility
The catalogue is edited by Arthur Smith, who exercises independent judgment in selection, description, and categorisation. No external organisations or sponsors influence the content. The editor takes responsibility for the accuracy of the notes and for any errors that may occur.
What the catalogue does not claim
The catalogue does not claim to be a comprehensive library, a peer-reviewed resource, or a substitute for scholarly research. It does not assert that every work has been read in full, nor does it certify the historical accuracy of the original texts. The catalogue does not use AI-generated descriptions or engage in promotional advertising.
Ongoing maintenance
The catalogue is reviewed periodically to add new works and update category guides. Editorial standards may be revised as the collection grows. The current version reflects the state of the library at its launch. For the latest information, readers should consult the about page.