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The above table shows that 23,625 books of history,
biography, science, &c., were borrowed, and that the issue
of fiction, including juvenile literature, was 75,130 It
should be noted that the latter includes a host of historical
romances and tales of travel, in which instruction and recreation
are happily blended. All books are lent for a
period not exceeding fourteen days. As, however, the books
in the fiction class admit of rapid perusal, and are seldom
out the maximum time allowed, the issue is thus largely
increased, irrespective of the actual number of individual
borrowers. It is just the reverse with the other 23,625
readers, who invariably required the fourteen days, and
frequently applied for renewal, owing to the intellectual
character of the books borrowed. The Reading Room is
usually inconveniently crowded at all hours of the day.
Minet
Library.
This Library, which is under the direction
of a joint-committee, representing the Commissioners
of Camberwell and Lambeth, has been exceedingly
successful in all departments, having been well patronised
by ratepayers and others of both parishes resident in its
vicinity. From the Lending Library, &c., no less than
77,259 volumes were issued to readers in 167½ days, showing
a daily average of 461.
Livesey
Library.
The large number of readers who frequent
the Livesey Library is gratifying evidence that
the institution is cordially appreciated. The visitors have
been several times counted, and it is safe to say that the
average daily attendance exceeds one thousand persons, of