WAKEFIELD LIBRARY

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume 76, 17 May 1941, Page 3

WAKEFIELD LIBRARY

IN OPERATION SINCE THE ’FIFTIES RECORD OF THE BIRD FAMILY One of the oldest institutions in the Waimeas is the Waimea South Mechanics’ Institution and Circulating , Library, now known as the Wakefield At a meeting held in the Church School on the 20th July. 1853, it was resolved that this institution be founded. A committee was set up. consisting of the following, bearing well-known local names: Messrs Jackson. Edward Baigent, Alf. Baigent, Boddington, Wratt. Wm. Wratt, J. Bird. Dickinson, Jessop. Tunnicliffe and Squire. A site of two acres was bought from Messrs Fell and Seymour on what is now known as Pitfuir Road. OPENING THE LIBRARY The first building was opened on 17th July, 1856. with the singing of “Rule Britannia.” Mr Saxton in the chair. An address on the progress of literature was delivered by Messrs Squire, Muller and Elliott. A tea party was later held, 100 persons being present. For many years this institution must have filled a big gap. Music classes were held weekly, and a good supply of books was kept. By 1860 there were 600 volumes on the shelves. An annual “tea party” was held on New Year s Day with music and dancing later. In 1880 Mr F. Faulkner was appointed librarian and secretary, on the retirement of Mr Walter Bird, a position Mr Faulkner held till 1913. PRESENT BUILDING | In 1913 the old site was sold and the present building was erected on land given by Mr J. Gibbs. Miss A. Bird was appointed Librarian, a position she held continuously until her death this year. At a meeting of subscribers held recently references were made of the long and faithful service of the late Miss Bird; also of Mr Malcolm Bird over the same period as secretary. It was stated that there had never been a meeting held since the first in 1 1853. at which Mr J. Bird or a member ; of his family had not been present—a proud record of service. Mr J. Bird was a member of the first committee, 1 a member of the first building commiti tee, and was appointed Librarian and : secretary in 1857. LINKED WITH COUNTRY LIBRARY SERVICE At the above meeting the following i mmmittpp was elected: Mrs Banham.

Dr. Closs, and Mr Malcolm Bird, secretary and Librarian, Mrs Win, treasurer, Mr Stephens. The Library has now joined up with the Government Country Library Servic and can supply subscribers with up-to-date fiction and non-fiction.