NELSON INSTITUTE.

Colonist, Volume XLIV, Issue 10008, 17 January 1901, Page 2 (Supplement)

NELSON INSTITUTE.

A meeting in connection with the abovenamed Institute was held on January Bth when Mr J. T. Catley presided. The Chairman explained the object for holding the meeting, namely, to alter the rules so that the library, reading-room and the museum could be free to the public. He said that if thai; was done they could claim a share in the £3,000 voted by Parliament for distribution among the libraries in the Colony. Mr Worley asked if the proposed alteration would not materially affect the funds of the Institute by the loss of subscribers ? The Chairman replied he thought not, as those having the free use of the books and periodicals would not be allowed to take any of them out of the building. A room would be fitted up for those wanting a free read, and bethought the paying subscribers would still continue in view of the privilege of taking out what they wanted to read to their homes

Mr Grant pointed out the alteration was necessary in view of the Institute having received an endowment.

Mr Redgrave, the Secretary, said the fitting up of the free reading-room would cost from £12 to £15, including lighting. They would also lose a little rent which was received from meetings which were held in the room, which would have to be utilised for the free reading-room, Mr Dundas moved that the proposed alterations be made in the rules.

Seconded by Judge Robinson, and carried unanimously. Mr Worley said he had hoped something would have been said about the amalgamation of the Philosophical Society with the Institute.

The Chairman said he believed that would soon eventuate, when it was intended to have a scientific branch in connection with the Institute. Shelves would be erected, and tbe scientific books in the library would be placed at the disposal of those belonging to that branch, and by the payment of five shillings extra to the annual subscription the members of that branch would be able to get the New Zealand Transactions. He was certain the amalgamation would prove beneficial, and that more would attend the meetiugs when papers on scientific subjects were read. Mr Worley intimated that when the amalgamation ensued, he would have suggestions to make as regards the books. A vote of thanks to the Chairman brought the meeting to a close.