THE PUBLIC LIBRARY.

Opunake Times, Volume I, Issue 4, 17 July 1894, Page 3

THE PUBLIC LIBRARY.

(to the editor.) g IRj —It gave much pleasure to read in your valued columns a letter from " Bookworm," in reference to the great want of a Public Library here. A reading room is sadly required, and every man who desires to read quietly in his leisure moments must certainly tha*ik " Bookworm" for having brought the subject forward. Let us hope that it will not be dormant. Some three years ago a private reading room was instituted, under the auspices of theEveniug Club, but like any otherinstitution in Opunake, which has for its object cultivation of the mind, very soon fell to the ground for want of support. If we do not make an effort to keep in touch with the doings of the great world, even beyond the vast limits comprised between New Plymouth we shall soon develop fungus on the brain. (Butter has already been successfully grafted, I understand.) If it is not practicable to form a Public Library, I would suggest something in the shape of a Magazine Club, the, members of which, for a small subscription per annum, contribute funds for the purpose of acquiring the very best magazines and other publications. After time has been allowed for circulation amongst members, the periodicals become the property of members in rotation. This scheme was carried out very successfully at Motueka, a small village near Nelson, which perhaps, next to Opunake, brings most vividly to one's imagination the " abomination of desolation." —T am, &c. Edward C. Raikes.