MYFBS, MAY(R - the Digital Library of Georgia

236 . MAYOR'S ANNUAL BEPOBT.libraries exist. It is rather indicative of our occupiedand strenuous American life which impels torecreation rather than to learning,The large preponderance of the reading mattercalled for undoubtedly consists of the lightest weightliterature and the frothiest fiction. But I am consoledby the belief that no active, intelligent and receptivemind can sift a great many bushels ofchaff without discovering a few grains of wheat.I believe that the flimsiest mental pabulum is preferableto intellectual abstinence, and that any reading,short of bad reading, is better than no readingat all.The committee appointed at the January meetinglast to confer with the Mayor and Aldermen of thecity upon the establishment of a free library in Savannah,held a conference of the committee of thewhole on the 6th inst. in the Mayor's office. After afull and free discussion of existing conditions, uponthe motion of Judge Thomas M. Norwood, representingthe Society, a committee of three, consisting ofthe Mayor, Mr. George J. Baldwin of the Society,and myself, were appointed to confer, and toformulate a statement to be submitted to Mr. AndrewCarnegie, showing the condition, resources andneed of the city, which while not occupying the attitudeof a suppliant for charity, would be willing toconsider a proper and liberal tender of help.This committee met the next day and agreed upona statement to be prepared and submitted, and aspirit of very cordial co-operation prevailed amongits members.