Thoreau makes a list of books he intends to read in order to prepare for a vocation in surveying:

• Bion, Nicolas. The Construction and Principal Uses of Mathematical Instruments
• Bonnycastle, J. An Introduction to Mensuration and Practical Geometry
• “Description of the Improved Patent Portable Theodolite, invented by Mr. Schmalcalder. . .” in The Quarterly Journal of Science and the Arts, vol. 6 no. 11 (1819)
• Emerson, William. The Nature and Properties of Curve Lines
• Emerson, William. The Mathematical Principles of Geography
• Ewing, Alexander. A Synopsis of Practical Mathematics
• Flint, Abel. A System of Geometry and Trigonometry
• Galbraith, William. Mathematical and Astronomical Tables for the Use of Students of Mathematics, Practical Astronomers, Surveyors, Engineers, and Navigators
• Gibson, Robert. A Treatise of Practical Surveying. . . Adapted to the Use of American Surveyors
• Gregory, David. A Treatise of Practical Geometry
• Hammond, John. The Practical Surveyor
• Hassler, Ferdinand Rudolph. Principal Documents Relating to the Survey of the Coast of the United States 
• Hawney, William. The Compleat Measurer; or the Whole Art of Measuring
• Leybourn, William. The Compleat Surveyor, Containing the Whole Art of Surveying of Land
• Love, John. Geodaesia: or, the Art of Surveying and Measuring of Land, Made Easie 
• Martin, Benjamin. The New Art of Surveying by the Goniometer
• Robertson, John. A Treatise of Such Mathematical Instruments, as are Usually put into a Portable Case
• Talbot, Benjamin. The New Art of Land Measuring; or, A Turnpike Road to Practical Surveying

On the reverse side Thoreau has listed some of his needs and errands, including buying a hat and shoes, fixing his compass, buying a journal and a surveyor.