THE ATHENÆUM.

Evening Star, Issue 3102, 28 January 1873, Page 2

THE ATHENÆUM.

To the Editor .

Sin, —I, in common with the rest of the members of the Athemeum, am sorry to learn that the institution can no longer exist if the Government refuse the subsidy it has hitherto paid for its maintenance, and I hope to see some steps taken at the approaching annual meeting to re-form the management, with the view of increasing the revenue of the institution. And, whilst admitting the necessity of something beingdoneto raise its reputation above being an “ insiitution conducted upon the genteel pauper principle,” I am strongly of the opinion that any change that must be made, will need to be of a; most liberal character, and abolish all rules of a conservative tendency to insure its success, A great many means might be suggested that would tend to make the Institute more popular, amongst which I may venture to suggest the following: —I have no doubt a great number of people would subscribe for the use of the newspapers and periodicals who do not require the use of the libraiy. Suppose the subscription was made 10s per annum for the readingroom alone, and 30s per annum for the uSte of both. It might meet the requirements of of another class of persons if the readingroom was opened on Sundays. A room should he provided where persons could talk ; at present.a stranger cannot but feel uncomfortable upon going into the building and seeing the number of notices posted up demanding silence. Inducements should be held out to the rising generation to becom > subscribers by granting them a life membership, after subscribing to the Institute, Bay {or ten or twelve years.

Means could be adopted whereby subhave books delivered at their residences, by theirpaying au extra subscription for the convenience. I do not mean to advance any argument in support of my opinions. It is evident that something should be done to make the place pay, and if I can induce some more able pen than mine to suggest some better plan than the above I shall be satisfied. -1 am, &c., Doldrums.