A TREASURE trove of old national school books has been presented to Mary Immaculate College in Limerick. The books were the personal collection of James Stack (1865-1942), who became assistant headmaster of a small primary school in Brosna, on the border of Kerry and Limerick, in 1890, and later headmaster.

There are almost 300 books, mainly published between 1880 and 1920, covering a fascinating range of topics Classroom teaching methods, mathematics, English and Irish grammar and religion are to be expected, but the science of speech, a policeman's manual, law for the millions and a car driving manual also unexpectedly figure.

Following James Stack's death, the books remained in the family until 1994, when they were sold to Maurice O'Keeffe, an antiques and interiors specialist in Tralee.

The books will be used by degree and postgraduate researchers. Stack's great great grandniece, Maire Hartnett, who is a student in the college, was present at the formal presentation of the books by O'Keeffe to the College President, Sister Angela Bugler.

The Stack collection joins several old schoolbooks in the college library such as the 1808 Arithmetick, and the 1868 Girls' Reading Book.

Mary Immaculate would like receive more such books. "Many people have books of this sort stashed away and we have professional people who can say whether they are useful," said Peadar Cremin, the college's Head of Education.