GERALDINE MECHANICS’ INSTITUTE.

Temuka Leader, Issue 2741, 22 November 1894, Page 2

GERALDINE MECHANICS’ INSTITUTE.

TO THE EDITOR. Sir, —I have read accounts in your paper of concerts in Geraldine in aid of Dr Barnardo and of the Fire Brigade. These are worthy enough objects in their way, doubtless, but I think if someone was to take a little interest in the Mechanics’ Institute it would be much better for the town. At present the Institute is bankrupt. The librarian has just left, as the committee cannot afford to pay one. Money is owing for papers, and the secretary has had to pay for stamps, etc., out of his own pocket, and is now waiting patiently for times to mend. I sea the Borough Council of Timaru proposes to take over the institute of' that town. Could not the Town Board of Geraldine take over the Geraldine institute and see that it is managed properly. If they could not do that they surely could help in some way. They might possibly vote ohe Institute a few pounds to help it Along. It is a very sad state of affairs when a town the size of Geraldine is not able to keep a library going. The reading room has not many papers in it perhaps, but still it is right enough. For the last few weeks the door has been locked three nights of the week, as kerosene is too expensive. The committee ought to demise some scheme for popularising the place, making it a kind of “ Young Men’s Club.” At present the only place for a young fellow in Geraldine to go to is the hotels. Hoping that something will be done to try and liven m liters up, I am, etc., Resident.