THE BLENHEIM LITERARY INSTITUTE.

Marlborough Express, Volume V, Issue 229, 7 May 1870, Page 5

THE BLENHEIM LITERARY INSTITUTE.

To the Editor of the Marlborough Express. Sik, —As the claims of the Literary Institute to public support are likely to be brought somewhat prominently before the good people of Blenheim, I shall feel obliged if you will permit- me to reply to some of the fault-finders with whom I have lately come in contact. I have been told by some that we “haven’t got anything worth reading by others, that we “ have not half enough to readothers complain that “the library is not opened often enough;” some people want a reading-room supplied with newspapers; while others refuse to subscribe until we have made our library “more scientific.” Now, Sir, I would beg to ask all these grumblers if they are under the impression that the Institute is a commercial speculation ? Do they imagine that a company of capitalists have started “ the concern,” and are anxious for their patronage ? I can assure them that if they stand aloof they are the only losers ; if the public want a readingroom, more books, and more accommodation, they can have all .they require if they will but place the “ needful ” in the hands of the Committee ; if the library is not open during the

day, and country residents find it inconvenient to attend in the evening, I would beg to remind them that it is now opened free of cost, but, if a sufficient number of persons will subscribe to the funds, the Committee will be most happy to meet their views by appointing a paid librarian. I am not acquainted with any royal road to conveniences more than there is to learning, though both can be had by those who go the right way to obtain them. I conclusion, I will merely parody Dean Swift’s charity sermon, and say, “ Those who subscribe to the Institute invest their money to their own advantage, and if they are satisfied with the security, why—- * Down with the dust !’ ” —I am, &c., One of the Committee.