FREE PUBLIC LIBRARY-LENDING BRANCH.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XXII, Issue 7343, 2 June 1885, Page 3

FREE PUBLIC LIBRARY-LENDING BRANCH.

TO THE EDITOR,

Sib, —While the question of the lending branch of the Free Public Library is engaging the attention of the Council and public, a few facts with reference to the working of that branch in Sydney may be of interest to the public generally. la the first place, the lending branch is quite separate from the general library, and located in a different part of the building. To become a member you have to 611 in a card stating that you an) a resident in Sydney, that you are a respectable and responsible person, and you must declare the same before a Justice of the- Peace or a well-known ratepayer; then lodge this with the librarian, together with your address, and this entitles you to become a member. The books are lent out for a fortnight, and in no case it the time extended, but after a lapse of a fortnight or so you may again take the same book if it is on the shelves. Yon are responsible for the book while in your possession undor penalty of fines for damage. Printed catalogues are supplied at a fee of 6d (one of which I enclose for your inspection), but three or four are kept on the counter for the use of those who may not care to buy one. The library is open daring certain hours in the day and certain, nights of the week of an evening. I myself was a member during my stay in Sydney in 1880, and derived much pleasure and information from the privilege, and shall be delighted to see the same institution started here.—l am, &c,, Framc. Hammond.