13 



beyond the time allowed. These are paid with the greatest cheerful- 

 ness, and have the desired effect in getting then returned in proper 

 time ; the amount received from this source and for the renewal of 

 tickets during the year, is ^21. 13s. Id. 



The Superintendent adds that the greatest order and decorum is 

 manifested by the readers, no case of misconduct having showed itself. 



The picture here presented is a very pleasing and delightful one, 

 and it must be felt by all, that it is desirable to give every encourage- 

 ment to the class of persons using these Libraries in their aspirations 

 after knowledge and improvement. It is found that two hours in the 

 evening, twice a week, are too short for the proper transaction of the 

 business of the Libraries ; not less than 600 volumes having to be 

 received and given out in that time. It is evident that a proper ex- 

 amination of the books returned, and attention to the wants of the 

 readers cannot be given in the hurry and pressure necessarily resulting. 



The Committee, therefore, propose to rent a house in each district, 

 north and south, in a suitable locality, where attendance can be given 

 through the day as well as in the evening. The experiment will pro- 

 bably be tried first in the Southern District, and if successful, after- 

 wards applied to the North. 



The Committee, in concluding their report, have great pleasure in 

 bearing testimony to the efficient services of their officers and atten- 

 dants. In an experimental institution, such as this has hitherto been, 

 the success mainly depends on the hearty concurrence and earnestness 

 of the officials employed. In every branch of the establishment, this 

 assistance has been cheerfully and promptly afforded; and to this in 

 a great measure, the rapid progress of the Institution may be ascribed. 

 It is no longer an experiment, but a great fact, the usefulness of which 

 will every year develope itself more and more, in the diffusion of know- 

 ledge, the provision of innocent amusement and recreation, and the 

 union of all, classes of this great community in the one object of eleva- 

 tion and progi'ess. 



Signed, on behalf i>f the (^ommittce. 



J. A. nCTOX. ("liainnan. 



