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217
1897-98.
SEVENTH ANNUAL REPORT
OF THE
SHOREDITCH PUBLIC LIBRARIES.
To the Vestry of the Parish of St. Leonard, Shoreditch.
Gentlemen,
I beg to submit my report of the past year's work of the Libraries of this parish.
The year has again proved to be an eventful one, inasmuch as its termination
saw the practical completion of the Passmore Edwards Public Library in Pitfield
Street, Hoxton.
The opening took place on Wednesday, April 20th, and the function was performed
by the Right Hon. Sir John Lubbock, Bart., M.P., in the Reference
Department on the first floor. Mr. J. Passmore Edwards and a number of other
distinguished guests attended and took part in the proceedings. The ceremony was a
brilliant success—a good account of which will be found reproduced in this report
from the "Hackney Express and Shoreditch Observer."
It is estimated that the cost of the Library including site, fitting-up, furnishing,
and stock of books will be about £20,000, but the exact figures cannot be given yet,
as a number of accounts for extras have not been rendered. The Library, inside and
out, will compare favourably. with any other in the Metropolis; and, as every
inducement is being considered to make it popular, it is hoped that inhabitants will
make good use of it and thoroughly appreciate its numerous privileges.
The building is beautifully decorated, furnished throughout with Riga Wainscot
Oak Tables and Stands and American Oak Chairs, and specially designed fittings for
the Electric Light have been provided.