"THE BOY ON THE SCRAP HEAP."

Marlborough Express, Volume XLIII, Issue 116, 14 May 1909, Page 2

"THE BOY ON THE SCRAP HEAP."

TO THE EDITOIt,

gi r I was more than pleased to read ' your educational leader on the above in yesterday's paper. It is a crying and patent evil here and elsewhere, this Avastage of virile young manhood. I, with you, sir, blame it on the lack of continuity, as when the boy leaves school there is not a single opportunity afforded him here (no matter how strong his inclination for study) to continue his educational course.' I recognise, with you, the importance of technical schools as a necessity for the future, but to keep up the continuity you advocate, is there not a "missing link?" As to ensure success, the boy or girl requires books, etc., for reference, and these they have not. in Blenheim. But why not? You have the books and you lock them up against hundreds of eager readers, and only allow them access to a few papers and periodicals twelve hours m the six secular days! This is wastage, sir, with a vengeance the most indifferent business man would not tolerate, and yet your past Councillors have done so for years, and up to date there appears to be no awakening to this important duty. Now, sir, I appeal to you for your earnest and powerful advocacy for this r ost vital privilege and right for our burgesses, and though the present Council seems to be pledged to rigid economy, the expense of this boon is so fractional when compared with the general benefit it would confer that it does not deserve to be considered. In conclusion, I respectfully ask you to advocate that the Institute be opened every secular day, say, from 10.30 to 1 o'clock, from 2.30 to 5 o'clock, and from 6.30 to 9.30, and that all books in the library may be used free for reference on the premises, and that a catalogue be kept for general use, so that those desirous could select the book required. I think, sir, this is a very modest request, and I feel assured, if it has your persistent and able support, there will be no mistake about its success; and I further hope that in the near future Blenheim will own a fully equipped free library.—Yours, etc., . M.J.