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Opening of the Birmingham Central Free Library, 1865. Creator: Unknown
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Opening of the Birmingham Central Free Library, 1865. Creator: Unknown
Opening of the Birmingham Central Free Library, 1865. 'The Central Free Library (the second institution of this kind established, under Mr. Ewart's Act, by the Corporation of Birmingham) was opened to the public...by Mr. H. Wiggin, the Mayor...the new Free Library...is an edifice of the Ionic style,...handsome and commodious in the interior...the Mayor...[said that this] great central library, which was devoted to literature and art, and would, in addition to the lending-library of 14,000 books, contain a reference-room, where the best and rarest books of reference would be found, to be used in the building. It would be the right of every householder in the town to use the library; and this he hoped they would do. His Worship then called on Lord Stanley, who made a very sensible and thoughtful speech on the benefits of such provision for the mental improvement and rational amusement of the working classes'. From "Illustrated London News", 1865
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EDITORS COMMENTS
**A Beacon of Knowledge: The Opening of Birmingham Central Free Library, 1865**
In this historic photograph, a momentous occasion is captured - the grand opening of Birmingham's Central Free Library in 1865. This magnificent institution was established under Mr. Ewart's Act and marked as the second such library to be built by the Corporation of Birmingham. The imposing structure, designed in the Ionic style, boasts a handsome interior that promises to inspire learning and intellectual pursuits.
As Mayor H. Wiggin officially opens the doors to this treasure trove of knowledge, he emphasizes its significance not only for literature and art but also as a resource hub where residents can access rare books and reference materials within the building itself. This esteemed library is intended for every household in Birmingham, ensuring that all members of society have equal access to these valuable resources.
The accompanying speech by Lord Stanley highlights the importance of such an institution in promoting mental improvement and rational entertainment among working-class individuals. As a symbol of civic pride and commitment to education, this photograph serves as a testament to the enduring power of knowledge sharing and community building.
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