This article, reprinted from The Atlantic Monthly, July 1945, discusses the role of scientists in the post-war era, emphasizing the need to make knowledge more accessible. Dr. Vannevar Bush, as Director of the Office of Scientific Research and Development, highlights the importance of developing instruments that allow access to and control over the accumulated knowledge of humanity. He argues that while science has focused on physical power, it should now focus on enhancing mental capabilities through technological advancements. The article notes that the war has brought scientists together, but now they must find new purposes. Biologists and medical scientists have continued their work, while physicists have been displaced from academic pursuits. The article discusses the challenges of managing the vast amount of scientific knowledge generated, and the need for better methods of recording, storing, and retrieving information. It describes the potential of new technologies, such as microphotography and microfilm, to compress vast amounts of information into small formats. It also explores the development of machines that can automate tasks such as data entry, computation, and record-keeping. The article suggests that future technologies, such as the memex, could allow individuals to store and retrieve information more efficiently, enhancing the ability to consult and build upon existing knowledge. The article also touches on the importance of developing new systems for indexing and retrieving information, as well as the need for more efficient and accurate methods of recording and transmitting data. It concludes with a discussion of the potential for future technologies to revolutionize the way information is handled, making it more accessible and useful for scientific and other purposes.This article, reprinted from The Atlantic Monthly, July 1945, discusses the role of scientists in the post-war era, emphasizing the need to make knowledge more accessible. Dr. Vannevar Bush, as Director of the Office of Scientific Research and Development, highlights the importance of developing instruments that allow access to and control over the accumulated knowledge of humanity. He argues that while science has focused on physical power, it should now focus on enhancing mental capabilities through technological advancements. The article notes that the war has brought scientists together, but now they must find new purposes. Biologists and medical scientists have continued their work, while physicists have been displaced from academic pursuits. The article discusses the challenges of managing the vast amount of scientific knowledge generated, and the need for better methods of recording, storing, and retrieving information. It describes the potential of new technologies, such as microphotography and microfilm, to compress vast amounts of information into small formats. It also explores the development of machines that can automate tasks such as data entry, computation, and record-keeping. The article suggests that future technologies, such as the memex, could allow individuals to store and retrieve information more efficiently, enhancing the ability to consult and build upon existing knowledge. The article also touches on the importance of developing new systems for indexing and retrieving information, as well as the need for more efficient and accurate methods of recording and transmitting data. It concludes with a discussion of the potential for future technologies to revolutionize the way information is handled, making it more accessible and useful for scientific and other purposes.