Buntingford Centre of County Library
The Autumn exchange of books took place on September 22nd, when four new boxes of books were deposited at the Parish Room.
60 borrowers took advantage of the Library on Tuesday last, which will now be open from 4 to 4.30, and from 7.30 to 8.
Two books are missing from last issue, "Keren of Lowbole" and "Palace Beautiful." Will borrowers kindly return at once.
Herts County Library
The Buntingford centre was formally opened on Tuesday last at 6 p.m. at the Parish Room by Mr Claud Fraser, Chairman of the Library Committee, when a large number of the new members gathered to inspect and select from the 100 books which form the first instalment from the County Library.
Mr Fraser expressed his satisfaction that there had been such a hearty response to this new effort, and his hope that the fullest advantage would be taken of its benefits.
The Rev. L.W. Wright also spoke with appreciation of the scheme, and the Rev. A. Howard said that he was glad the Parish Room should be used for such a purpose.
The Library was then declared open, and in a short time 50 of the books, which include fiction, travels and biographers, were in circulation. The membership is already 81, and a fresh supply of cards is necessary.
The Library will be open from 6 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday till further notice. The books may be kept a fortnight without charge, after which a charge is made of 2d. weekly.
The Librarian will welcome suggestions of any special books, which can be applied for before the next instalment is sent out.
Hertfordshire County Library
The Local Committee of the Buntingford Centre met on Tuesday at the Parish Room, the Rev. A. Howard presiding in the absence of the Chairman (Mr C. Fraser).
The other members present were Mrs H. Williams, Mrs Page, the Rev. L.W. Wright, Mrs Baker and the Local Librarian (Mrs Howard).
It was decided to open the Library weekly on Tuesdays from 6 to 7 p.m., commencing with a formal opening on Tuesday next (June 1st), when those who have signed the membership cards will be able to select a book.
Hertfordshire County Library
Buntingford Branch
Membership cards may now be obtained at Mr Day's, to be returned when signed to Mr Day, or to the Local Librarian (Mrs Howard.)
The Library will be opened at the Parish Room as soon as can be arranged.
County Library Scheme
A FREE LIBRARY FOR BUNTINGFORD
A meeting to discuss the question of forming a Buntingford Branch of the Herts. County Council Free Library Scheme was held at the Parish Room on Saturday evening. Mr Claud Fraser presided and was supported by the Rev. A. Howard. There were about 20 representatives from the parishes of Aspenden, Layston, Wyddiall and Throcking present.
Under the County Library Scheme libraries are formed in the various towns and villages in the County and a supply of books, normally two per member, are sent periodically. There is no charge for membership or books.
The Chairman, after reviewing the scheme, said he thought it a very good one. It involved the Committee and members in no cost and he understood the books were very useful ones. If 150 members could be enrolled, they would be entitled to 300 books.
After a discussion, the Rev. A. Howard moved, and Mr W.J. May seconded that a library be formed. The following were elected to serve on the committee:
Layston - Mrs H.L. Baker and Miss Elliott.
Aspenden - Mr H.C. Marshall and Mrs H.H. Williams.
Wyddiall - The Rev. L.W. Wright and the Rev. A. Howard.
Throcking - The Rev. A.L. Panchaud and Mrs A.W. Page.
Mrs Macklin proposed, and Mrs A. Dixon seconded that Mrs Howard be asked to take on the duties of Hon. Librarian. Mrs Howard, after enquiring what the duties entailed, said she would accept.
The Chairman said they were very grateful to Mrs Howard for her promise of assistance. (Applause).
Mr W.J. May asked whether Sub-Libraries could be formed in the various parishes connected with the scheme, and the Chairman said he thought it would not be practicable at present. If any of the parishes choose to run their own scheme in conjunction with the County Council they could do so.
Mr A.G. Day said the Committee should consider what would be a suitable day and hour for opening the library. He thought the room should be open during the evening as some members would find it difficult to change their books during the afternoon.
Mr E.E. Dennis said he had made enquiries at Hertford, and had learned that gifts of books to the library would become the sole property of the library. The librarian would, however, have to render a return of all books presented. He understood that the next supply of books would be ready for despatch in April, and if members could be enrolled at once Buntingford could get a supply then.
MEMBERSHIP
The Chairman said he hoped as many as possible would take advantage of the scheme. When they had enrolled enough members the librarian could send for a supply of books. All that was necessary was for the public to sign a membership form, and Mr Day had kindly offered to have a supply of these in his shop.
The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks to the Chairman for presiding, and for the interest he had taken to the scheme.
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N.B. - It is important that membership forms be completed as soon as they are available, as after the April supply of books there will be no further supply for some two or three months, and should be membership increase immediately after the first supply, enough books may not be available for some time.