Herbert Putnam was born on September 20, 1861, in New York. He was the son of George Palmer Putnam, who founded a successful publishing company that bore his name. Growing up in a literary household, Putnam developed a love for books and knowledge from a young age.
Putnam attended Harvard University for his undergraduate studies, where he honed his scholarly pursuits. Following his time at Harvard, he continued his education by studying law at Columbia University. However, Putnam's passion for libraries and administration quickly became evident, steering him away from a legal career.
After deciding to pursue a career in library management, Putnam worked at various institutions, starting at the University of Minnesota. His exemplary work there caught the attention of library officials in Boston, where he was offered a position. Putnam's skills in organization and management quickly propelled him up the ranks in the library world.
In 1899, Putnam was appointed as the head of the Library of Congress, a position he would hold for the next four decades. Under his leadership, the Library of Congress grew into a globally recognized institution, thanks to his dedication to expanding its budget and organizing its vast collection of materials.
During World War I, Putnam played a crucial role in distributing books from the Library of Congress to American soldiers fighting overseas. His efforts ensured that troops had access to valuable reading materials, helping to boost morale during a challenging time.
Herbert Putnam's legacy as the head of the Library of Congress is one of innovation and dedication to knowledge. His influence extended beyond America, as he worked to make the institution a beacon of learning on the global stage. Putnam's work laid the foundation for future librarians, including Daniel Boorstin, who would follow in his footsteps as Librarian of Congress.
Putnam was named an Associate Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, recognizing his contributions to the field of library science.
Outside of his professional endeavors, Putnam was a devoted family man, drawing on the values instilled in him by his father. His commitment to education and knowledge extended to his personal life, where he encouraged a love of learning in his own children.