e of books and the running expenses of the
library. It would seem, however, after observation of various efforts,
more or less successful, along this line, that it is much better to
secure the cooperation of all clubs and other organizations in the town,
thus disarming any outside criticism or antagonism from those outside
the one club.

A library association, which includes all persons in the town who are
desirous of having a public library, seems to be the better form for the
organization to take, though a city federation of clubs has proven a
successful agency in many towns. The difficulty of providing funds for
conducting such a library on an absolutely free basis is evident, but to
make membership in the association, with the payment of an annual
membership fee, the condition of borrowing is to bar from the use of the
books the people who need them most.

In organizing a library association it will be necessary to decide what
the policy is to be in this respect. Shall the library be solely for
those who join the association and pay this fee, or shall this be an
altruistic movement for the betterment of the town, making the use of
the books free to all? If the latter plan is decided upon it will be
necessary to provide by subscription of citizens or by entertainments
and otherwise, a larger fund for the support of the library, and such an
undertaking should be well considered for it often becomes burdensome.

If an association is formed with an annual membership fee which entitles
the member to the use of the books, those who feel unable to pay this
annual fee may be loaned books upon the payment of a small fee for the
loan of a single book.

The reading room feature is of great importance and whatever plan may
be adopted regarding the loan of the books for home use there is no
reason why the use of the reading room, the periodicals and the books in
the room should not be absolutely free to all who will come there to use
them. To make the reading room the brightest and most attractive spot in
town for the boys who are inclined to be on the street of evenings is a
possibility for any library association, if a few earnest women will
give time and effort toward this end.

The actual expenses incurred in such a venture are room rent, furniture,
heat, light, services of a librarian and the purchase of books and
periodicals, but a systematic effort to interest the people of the town
often results in the donation of t