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FONTHILL PUBLIC LIBRARY
[Welland Tribune, 11 February 1898]
The late Mr. D’Everardo was a benefactor to Fonthill in many respects, and his many acts of beneficence are so well known that repetition of them is superfluous. In no other way was his interest for the general good more lastingly expressed than in his interest in our library then known as the mechanic’s institute. The good seed which this worthy gentleman sowed has increased a hundred fold, until now the village of Fonthill boasts as good a public library and free reading room as can be found in any other place of its size in Ontario.
The public library has made readers of many people in the village, and neighborhood, who formerly took no interest in literature of any kind, not even the lightest. The demand on the library for the books of travel and adventure, proves conclusively that the younger members of the institute are forming habits of reading and culture. The most casual observer is bound to believe that those who thus form such habits, must in time develop into readers whose tastes are the best, and whose criticisms the wisest. Numerous standard works of fiction, history and religion find access too many homes, and fill the spare moments with pleasure, purest and best, because it is intellectual and spiritual.
The present stock of books is shortly to be reinforced by a new supply selected with due regard to the demands of the public, and those who are not members at present should avail themselves of so excellent an opportunity of improvement. Many books written by Canadians, and best understood by Canadians, should receive attention in order that our readers should become acquainted with the fact that Canada is slowly but surely building up a literature of its own.
Too much praise cannot be rendered the president, secretary and energetic board of directors in connection with the library, who have the best interests of the institution in mind; and though slightly embarrassed financially since the erection of the new library building, they trust to the allegiance of the citizens of the village and neighborhood for the desired help. ART OVERHOLT
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