isits from one of the especially equipped book vans of
this Service; at least three visits being paid to each library during a
normal year. In addition, all persons, by whichever of the above means
they receive library service, may obtain loans of requested books by
post.

FREE PUBLIC LIBRARIES: "A" SERVICE

On 31 March 1958 there were participating in the service 107 libraries
controlled by the following local authorities:

Administrative counties 5
Borough councils 94
Independent town districts 6
Dependent town districts 2

In addition, the following counties contribute to the funds of a public
library supplying a free service to county residents:

County Public Library
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Eltham Eltham
Patea Waverley
Wairoa Wairoa
Golden Bay Takaka
Lake Queenstown

These libraries served an estimated local population of 437,000, with a
considerable number in surrounding areas. Besides the many requested
books and periodicals 91,954 books are on regular loan to them.

By arrangement with the Waitemata, Patangata, Egmont, and Rangitikei
County Councils the public libraries at Titirangi, Otane, Opunake, and
Bulls respectively receive a free service.

Library buildings continue to improve. During the year new libraries
were opened in Geraldine, Greymouth, New Lynn, and Morrinsville, and new
buildings are planned in several other centres. This Service continues
to assist in making available material on good overseas practice and New
Zealand achievement. Assistance is also given in the design of the
interiors of libraries and in specifications for equipment.

The best results are achieved when a local authority and the librarian
prepare a written building programme, specifying the functions of the
library, the various areas to be provided, the relationship between
each, the number of books, readers, and librarians to be accommodated,
and the equipment to be housed for efficient service. Such a document
gives a clear directive to the architect, but at the same time allows
him complete freedom of expression in designing the building.

The shortage of trained librarians continues. Three students from the
1957 Library School professional course accepted positions in public
libraries serving centres of under 20,000 population, but they were all
replacements for qualified librari