Read the excerpt:
The ancient Library of Alexandria was part of a research institution where scholars studied mathematics, astronomy, medicine and literature. Rulers ordered that every ship entering the harbour be searched for books, which were copied and the copies returned to their owners. Historians still debate how the library declined; there was no single fire but a long loss of funding and support over several centuries.
How did the library collect many of its books?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. By copying books found on ships
- Step 1: Find the relevant detail in the text: "every ship entering the harbour be searched for books, which were copied".
- Step 2: This detail answers the question directly.
Answer
By copying books found on ships.
Why not the others: "By buying them from other libraries" is not supported by the text; "By printing them" is not supported by the text; "By borrowing them permanently" is not supported by the text.
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