New Library Opened

Fort Frances Times and Rainy Lake Herald

The new Carnegie public library was opened on Monday evening of last week with a good program of music and addresses. Mr. H. Williams, president of the library board, presided and in his opening address referred to the pleasure it afforded him at being present on such an important occasion. In a short speech he recounted some of the trials and conditions under which the directors and members of what was then a library, association had to undergo in order to keep alive what had been culminated in the present beautiful building. Mr. Williams also referred to the services of Messrs. W.J. Clarke, C.J. Hollands, Wm. Lloyd, W.A. Rae and others who were the pioneers of the library association, which had been so freely rendered. He said he hoped the citizens of Fort Frances would avail themselves of the opportunity of the new librarary of what was now freely offered. Mr. Williams’ remarks were received with applause, after which Miss Dorothy Fraleigh gave in splendid style a reading which was not only very much appreciated but was loudly applauded. Miss Fraleigh is a most talented young lady and it is to be hoped the public will have an opportunity of hearing her again at an early date.

A song in god style by Rev. F.C. Middleton was followed by a few well chosen remarks by Mr. C. J. Hollands, who gave some very timely advice. Mrs. Myers being called on, rendered a song in excellent voice, eliciting hearty applause. J.A. Osborne followed this with a short address in which he referred to the present opening of such a public building as being another step and mark in the progress of Fort Frances. Mr. W.J. Clark then gave in excellent voice a patriotic song after which Rev. J.R. Harris, B.A., closed the proceedings with an excellent address in which he referred to the aid of education received through the means of a new public library.

The new library was built at a cost of $10,000, the site of which was donated by the crown lands department. The contractor, Mr. A.F. Scott, commenced work in August, and under the supervision of Mr. Wm. Floyd, the architect’s inspector, good progress was made. The money was obtained from the Carnegie foundation through the town council.

There are over 2000 volumes now on the shelves and the reading room is supplied with all the latest magazines and periodicals. The furniture is oak and the whole interior of the building is most inviting. The lighting system is unique, the soft light radiating from the new pattern lamps spreading an even light all over the room and avoiding that brilliant glare so hurtful to the eyes. The public are cordially invited to inspect the library during office hours and make free use of the books according to the regulations.