Office of the Historian

125.6336/11–948: Telegram

The Consul General at Mukden (Ward) to the Secretary of State

Mukden, November 9, 1948—10 a. m.
[Received November 9—5:10 a. m.]

537. When Mayor visited USIS reading room yesterday, mytel 536 today, I took pains bring his attention to medical, engineering and other technical and professional books and expressed hope his people will be made aware our desire library be used by them. He and his accompanying interpreters expressed desire have access to library for own use.

Although I emphasized library devoted to American publications, he stated upon leaving he will lend some of “our” (Commie) literature for inclusion. Should such literature be forthcomings and inasmuch popular use of library has almost ceased, I suggest we display Commie literature and make it available but keep library conspicuously and preponderantly American. Such Commie literature as may be furnished will undoubtedly be of kind generally available in Commie reading rooms and American publications will still be basic attraction to persons visiting USIS.

If we can assure continued existence USIS reading room by minority display Commie literature, we shall probably be better advised follow such course than insist on 100 percent American display and have our reading room placed out of bounds or formally closed. In our conversation preceding visit to USIS reading room, Mayor emphasized need for cultural, as well as material, cooperation between American and Chinese peoples, which may portend tolerant attitude toward USIS if we are conciliatory, thereby enabling Commies answer arguments possible ardent pro-Soviet elements opposed to continued existence USIS. I feel we may lose much more by refusing his offer than by accepting it. Should Mayor send Commie literature he may follow up by observing disposal [garble] of it, in view which shall appreciate early instructions regarding display and availability so that we may take prompt action upon delivery.

Please pass Nanking 670 and Shanghai for Connors42 362.

Ward
  1. W. Bradley Connors, Acting Director of USIS for China and Consul at Shanghai.↩