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The exterior facings of the walls are of red brick, with terra cotta dressings,
cornices, mouldings, and enrichments, the roof being covered with slates.
Over the entrance is a panel bearing the inscription "Passmore Edwards'
Public Library," the rest of the space being filled in with a conventional Tree
of Knowledge. The figure subject in the upper portion of the gable represents
St. George and the Dragon, and the shields on either side of this bear the
Cross of St. George and the Badge of the Vestry of St. George the Martyr,
Southwark, lespectively. Above the western window there is a panel representing
" Truth holding the mirror up to Nature."
The main staircase is of teak, the newels, balusters, and handrail being
polished, while the doors and screens are of varnished pine, the wood being
stained in two different tints. This treatment is also carried out to the wood
panel ceiling of the Reference Library. Glass has been largely used, in order
to provide as much light as possible throughout the building.
The electric light has been installed in the building, which is heated
throughout by means of hot water pipes, with fixed radiators.
In order to give publicity to the situation and work of the
Library, circulars were distributed in the parish stating the advantages
the institution gives, and the way in which all inhabitants of
the parish can use the Library. To further advertise the Library,
20 enamelled tablets have been placed on lamps in different parts of
the parish.
The bronze medallions of Sir William Molesworth and Sir
Austen Henry Layard which Mr. Passmore Edwards is providing to
commemorate the connection of these worthies with the parliamentary
representation of the district will be placed in the vestibule of
the Library, and a distinguished statesman has promised to deliver an
address on the occasion of the unveiling. It may be stated that
while seeking portraits or busts of the former M.P's. for this district,
inquiries were made of Lady Layard as to any pictorial representations
which might be in existence, and she very kindly presented to
the library a handsome bronze medallion of her husband, modelled
by herself, which was transmitted from Venice.
SUBSCRIPTIONS.
In response to appeals the undernamed subscriptions were
received in addition to Mr. Passmore Edwards munificent donation
of £5,000 and the £2,000 received for letting the library site
a stand for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Procession.