U.S. Archivist

* President Clinton has nominated John W. Carlin, former governor of Kansas and a close political ally, to be archivist of the United States. Carlin has many fine personal qualities and friendships, including that of Sen. Bob Dole (R-Kan.), but his nomination violates both the spirit and the intention of the legislation establishing the Office of Archivist of the United States.

The appointment should be made without regard to political affiliation. Carlin lacks the high professional qualifications for this appointment. California’s senators, Barbara Boxer and Dianne Feinstein, and The Times should join the members of the American Historical Assn., the Organization of American Historians, the American Library Assn. and the Society of American Archivists in opposing Carlin’s appointment.

There are many state archivists, government, college and public librarians who are more qualified and who would better satisfy the spirit and intention of the law regarding this distinguished office. In this instance the President’s men have neither served him nor the public well.

MARTIN RIDGE

Senior Research Associate

Henry E. Huntington Library

San Marino