Mentions ordering books for the schools of art and modern languages and ancient and modern history. Writes concerning courses in law at the University of Virginia and the need for books, especially Thomas' edition of Coke Littleton published not long since in London. it is the first book which will be put into the hands of our law Students, and will in fact be the elementary book of the school and is therefore the most essential and most immediately necessary... Notes that they will need to order the edition from London and gives a detailed description and how much it would cost. Also requests several other works.

Jefferson mentions that the crates of books have not been received yet, discusses some specific shipments, and warns Hilliard not to exceed his funds for buying books for the University.