Discourse 1871-03-12
LECTURE AND READING ROOMS—The
first free lecture, under the auspices of the
Library, Reading Room and Lecture Asso-
ciation, took place last night, in Morgan's
Commercial College building, in the 14th
Ward. The subject of the lecture was:
"Libraries and Reading Rooms;" the lec-
turer on the occasion was Hon. Wilford
Woodruff, who, after singing and prayer,
gave a very interesting lecture on the sub-
ject. He mentioned the interest he felt in
the wellfare of this people, particularly in
their lntellectual [intellectual] welfare; quoted a passage
from the Doctrine and Covenants, con-
cerning the acquisition of knowledge from
all good books; recommended reading his-
tory; private means, as a general thing, was
insufficient to establish a suitable library,
even for family use, and hence the advan-
tage of free reading rooms, giving the pub-
lic access to the daily papers, and telegrams
from the whole world. The reading room
does much to draw the mind of youth from
the vortex of "civilization" so-called.
Mentioned his own personal experience,
and the profit he had derived from read-
ing travels, history and scientific works;
also President Smith's excellent memory
gained by cultivation. Advised the people
to contribute books and means to the
library, and to improve their leisure time
in treasuring up knowledge, especially of
the rise and progress of this people and their
remarkable history. Wished the under-
taking success; encouraged the committee
to go forward in their work. The library
will be an advantage to both old and young.
Advised the keeping of a personal journal,
and spoke of its interest to generations com-
ing. Said that an education was the best
legacy, and that novels lead the mind astray;
useful books vice versa. Closed by saying
that the acquisition of knowledge is of
slow growth and the result of patient labor.
