OWN YOUR BOOKS

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 753, 28 August 1929, Page 11

OWN YOUR BOOKS

ENHANCES PLEASURE, SAYS LIBRARIAN “I would . urge you to become not only readers, but owners, of books. By owning them yourself the pleasure of reading books is enhanced. So said Mr. John Barr, City Librarian, during an address on ‘’Books and Beading,” at the Advertising Club lunch yesterdaj*. Mr. G. C. Codlin presided. The greatest of our literary men have given their time to extolling the virtues of books,” said Mr. Barr, in recommending books on books. Ruskin’s “Sesame and Lilies,” Conan Doyle’s ‘Through the Magic Door,” and Blatchford’s “My Favourite Books,” were good examples of what had been written about books, said Mr. Barr, who quoted from a book written in the 14th century in praise of literature. “We read for two purposes—information and pleasure,” he continued, “but we should always be sure to get the very best. If you want to know what is best, ask the librarian. He knows.” Selected lists of works on various subjects were issued from time to time, outlining complete courses of reading on special subjects, compiled by recognised authorities. “Every person should get an encyclopaedia,” said Mr. Barr. “A good one is the master key to reading and gives a foundation for every subject. Good literary guides can also be obtained.” The best approach to * the classics, said Mr. Barr, was to read from the modern novels backward. “Read what you like,” said the speaker, “not what someone else thinks you should like. Rely on your own judgment. To people of limited means there never was a time when books were so well and cheaply produced as at the present time.” In concluding, Mr. Barr said as yet there was not an ideal periodical in existence dealing with books. “The Times” Literary Supplement was the best but Was too heavy for the average reader.