DISTRICT NEWS.

Hauraki Plains Gazette, Volume XXXX, Issue 5448, 15 July 1929, Page 2

DISTRICT NEWS.

NGATEA. LIBRARY MATTERS. Matters in connection with the Ngatea Public Library were, discussed at a public meeting on Thursday evening, there being present Mrs and Miss Dudding and Messrs E. L. Walton, J. E. Reid, R. C. Abel, and W. Chappell. The secretary, Mr Reid, reported that there was cash in had totalling £5 12s 6d, plus £2 12s 6d deposits by subscribers. The library contained about 600 volumes, and had been housed in Mr E. L. Walton’s meeting room, but he desired to increase his office accommodation and wished the library to terminate its occupancy. Of late the library had gone somewhat flat, largely on account of the fact that it had not been given proper attention and that the .hours when changing was permissible -were not suitable. The question to be decided was what was to be done. His idea was to sell the lot and devote the proceeds to some deserving cause.

. Mrs Dudding suggested that the library be transferred to the school if a method could be arranged whereby the public could have access as well as the children.

Mr Chappell, the headmaster, said that at two schools where he had been stationed such a scheme had been in operation.; Members changed their books per medium of children attending the school. He was of the opinion that it could be worked at Ngatea, although a difficulty would be experienced in finding space in the school for the cupboards.

It was agreed that the, library be transferred to the school, and that Messrs Chappell and Abel be asked to censor the present books and reject any found improper for children’s use. On this being done it would be known what space was available for housing new books in the cupboards. Those present were appointed the library committee under the presidency of Mr J. E. Reid. Mr W. Chappell was appointed librarian, secretary, and treasurer. Subscription fees were fixed at 10s per annum for members and 2s 6d per annum for school children.

« Mr Walton undertook to have catalogues typed. t It was agreed to make the change as quickly as possible, and in the meantime efforts would be made to get in all books that were out.