THE LIBRARY.

Franklin Times, Volume XXI, Issue 67, 10 June 1931, Page 4

THE LIBRARY.

COMMITTEE’S REPORT

ALTERATIONS SUGGESTED

The library committee reported at Monday’s meeting of the Borough Council that, it met on June 2, when Cr. A. T. Begg was appointed chairman. ft recommended that the personnel of the committee remain as at present constituted by the council, but that Messrs R. C. Clark. L. J. Bayly. and Dr. 1,. J. Forman-Bull be appointed io act with the council's committee as a reading or selection committee.

Additions to and renovation of library and reading room: The committee, is of the opinion that the present library is so connected as to render any expansion impossible. and would therefore ask the council io indicate the probability of a new library eventuating within the next few years. If it is proposed not to consider the matter of a new library within say two or three years, the committee is of the opinion that further accommodaton will be necessary for the lending department and would suggest that the front, portion of the old tire station be converted into a reading room and that the present reading room be used as an expansion for the present lending department. Tl is anticipated that an estimate of Ihe cost of the alterations suggested will be available for the council meeting. Regarding the suggested alterations and renovations and also a new library. Or. G. T. Parvin said the ques‘tion had been before the council for some time. His own opinion was that nothing should bo done until such time as Hie council erected new municipal offices. The flavor. Mr .1. Routly, said he had been approached by the committee and asked for an approximate estimate, of carrying out the alterations suggested by the committee. These would cost about £7O. Cr. Parvin said lie was opposed lo any expenditure or alterations to the old fire station.

Cr. .1. P. Ran said as expenditure was involved the matter should be referred lo Hie finance committee for consideration when it dealt, with the eslimates for the current, year.

Cr. Parvin suggested the report should be referred back to Hie committee. who should consider the foasbilily of enlarging the present reading room.

Cr. A. F. Brown said congestion in the library was bad enough now without making it worse by enlarging the reading room. If anything could be done to improve existing conditions be would support it. Tn reply to Cr. Begg. the Mayor said when framing bis estimate he bad taken into account Hie employment of unemployed carpenters.

Finally Ibe matters was referred lo the finance committee.