Below, the Washington Post's charming if brief survey of contemporary cruise-ship libraries. Gratifying to know at least the Cunard line preserves a tradition I wouldn't have thought of, though it makes perfect sense. A grandfather once mentioned reading in the ship's library when everyone else was seasick. At the time, I believe I was only curious how they kept the books shelved during a storm.
Reading this article led me Google a few things for diversion more than academic intent, and I began to come across a few archival items, such as a ship's introductory booklet on the original QE 1, encouraging guests to use the library "at no charge." I'm sure there's more out there about such libraries - has anyone come across a study of any kind?