5 



to Know that this collection now numbers sixty pictures, beside a 

 similar number of framed sketches, engravings, and prints. An 

 annotated catalogue of these works was prepared for the Summer 

 Exhibition, and this will in future be embodied with the catalogues 

 for the periodical exhibitions. A few typical specimens for the 

 completion of our collection of Derby China have been purchased 

 during the year. Since the ilast Report, the Council have pur- 

 chased the remaining property between the present building and 

 Cheapside, having in view the ultimate enlargement of the Gallery. 

 The Committee fear that- the present time is not opportune for 

 engaging' in such a, project, although the need is most pressing ; 

 but they hope that some private benefactor may arise who will 

 recognise the needs of the town, and give the necessary help. 

 The cost of the Gallery for the past year, omitting the charges in 

 connection with the new property has been just over £300. The 

 Committee are pleased to make note of the fact that in response to 

 a request from the Workers' Educational Association, the Director 

 lectured on the work of the Gallery to a large audience of the 

 members of that Association in February last, and that the lecture 

 was much appreciated. 



All the buildings are now in a good state of repair. A con- 

 siderable sum has had to be spent during the past year, beside the 

 important alterations in the Library already referred to. The 

 steps and pavement at the main, entrance to the Library, which 

 had been in use since 1879, have been entirely renewed, and all the 

 basement premises painted and white-washed The only part of the 

 premises which requires re-painting is the inside of the Library, 

 but this the Committee thought it wise to defer till the altera- 

 tions were completed. They hope to deal with this portion next 

 spring. 



An abstract of the year's accounts as supplied by the Borough 

 Accountant, appears with this Report, dealing with the year ended 

 March 31st last. These abstracts are useful as affording details 

 for purposes of comparison by other institutions. Those locailly 

 interested have access to the fuller accounts published annually. 



