"The agricultural college editors stand at a very strategic point in the field of agricultural leadership. Through them the productive research of our laboratories may become articulate. As interpreters, they are liaison officers between the scientist and the farmer. The future of agriculture depends largely upon the quality of this interpretative process."
Traces developments in public programs related to agriculture (e.g., Soil Conservation Service, Tennessee Valley Authority, Rural Electrification Administration, Extension Service). "Certainly the agricultural college editors have a major responsibility for keeping the farmer and the public properly informed regarding facts and movements so they may judge wisely."
Reports on a study of library access in rural areas. Results showed 47,054,168 rural people without library service in a U.S. population of 64,029,517. "Hence, it follows that the library falls somewhat short as an extension medium to influence masses of farm people."
Response to "'Selling' vs. news" by Bristow Adams, Cornell University. Harris notes that the Cornell president and dean probably spend time seeking support from the legislature or other sources for their institution and its work. Asks if their efforts are (as Adams argued) "subversive to the purpose of the college?" Also observes that a pastor is paid for ministering to the souls of his flock, but he pauses frequently to pass the collection plate. "I maintain that if education is worth having, then it is justifiable to educate people to support educational institutions."
Author reports that weekly newspapers in New York State are not losing influence. Reports kept by months at Cornell show that the newspapers are using not only more of the college editors' material, but more agricultural news in general.
