PUBLIC LIBRARY

Chronicle (Levin), 27 February 1947, Page 4

PUBLIC LIBRARY

improvements suggested by overseas yisitor . Among recent visitors to the Levin library, were two distinguished overseas authorities, Mr. Frederick J. Thwaites, an Australian author, and Mr. Lionel McColvin, chief librarian of the City of Westminster Public Libraries, of London, England. Mr. McColvin is a well-known figure in public library affairs and is past-president of the English Library Association and a member of the council of that body. He is also an author of a number of works dealing. with librarianship. His special interest is music and his book "Music in Public Libraries" is considered a classic in that subject. The large membership in proportion to the population of Levin, was the subject of favourable comment by Mr. Thwaites during his halfhour inspection of the library. He recommended, however, that more space and light be given the lending department and that shelves be lowered and books disposed rather more on the reading side of the building, also that some of the tables be used for the display of books instead of so many being used for the reading of magazines as at present. Another subject for criticism was the display of "Silence" and other notices on the walls of the library which Mr. Thwaites considered Unsightly and not necessary as. the public should realise without having it "thrust before them, that these practises were not in keeping. with the atmosphere of the library. Mr. McColvin expressed pleasure at meeting Mrs. Whitaker, who is a member of the English Library Association, and also an associate by examination; and Mrs. Merritt, a former resident of London. Another visitor to the library was Mr. g. T. Alley, Director of the Country Library Service. Mr. Alley offered the services of one of the trained members • of his staff for one week, at the expense of the National Library Service, to help in matters of reorganisation, subject to the approval of the library committee. When- Cr. Bowen brought this suggestion before the Borough Council on Monday night, it was agreed that the offer should be . accepted.