so; this is essentially our work. We call ourselves
educators, and have the honor to be recognized as such; the work of a
public library is to teach, to elevate, to ennoble, there is no limit to
its possible influence.

Must we wait, then, until our children (for they are all ours as a
community) are fourteen years of age or upwards before we begin to teach
them the first principles of right living, of mental growth, of love to
their neighbor?

We maintain that we cannot begin too early, and that this is a part of
library work from which we get the greatest percentage of reward. Again
I ask, What are we doing for these children, the future pride or
dishonor of our communities?

Brockton, Mass., has a reading-room to which children are admitted, and
which they are encouraged to visit, so well patronized that it will soon
double its seating capacity.

Waltham, Mass., has taken a step in the right direction. The trustees of
the public library have supplied two tables in their waiting room with
Wide awake and St. Nicholas for the children.

Lowell, Mass., admits children during the day, and supplies them with
juvenile magazines. Manchester, N.H., admits children to the
reading-room; but unfortunately, from various causes, they are unable to
offer the necessary attractions, and few visit it.

Newport, R.I., can only furnish St. Nicholas for want of money, but
children may come and go at their pleasure.

Olneyville, R.I., is offering every inducement that their means will
allow to draw children to their reading-room; and to interest and
instruct them seems to be the object of those in charge.

Willimantic, Conn., admits children at the age of 12 years.

Somerville, Mass., supplies juvenile magazines, and has no limit to age.

Springfield, Mass., also admits children at all ages.

The Boston Public Library, the parent of the public libraries of New
England, true to its paternal instinct, begins to exert its influence
over the children at the earliest years.

There are doubtless others from whom we would be glad to hear, but I
confess that, after visiting and inquiring among public libraries
concerning this work, I became disheartened and ceased investigation,
for the popular verdict seems to be "Children and Dogs not allowed."

With our experience in this work with the children since the opening of
our library in 1876, and knowing the possibilities only waiting for
development, I am emboldened to speak earnestl