Page:Library Construction, Architecture, Fittings, and Furniture.djvu/230

206 they then leave the library by a different door from the one by which they entered. The bookshelves are placed end on with the issue counter, so that an assistant stationed there cansee between each, and has full control of the whole library.

The site is small, and consequently the library is very much cramped and crowded. On the first floor is the reading-room for magazines and reference library, the former with an area of about 1400 square feet, and the latter of 560, with shelf room for about 10,000 volumes. The second floor contains staff room, librarian's office, and committee room. A basement extends under the whole building, and can be shelved for books when needed; it will hold about 50,000 volumes. The total shelving now provided is for 29,000 volumes.

The Croydon Central Library forms part of the new Municipal Buildings, and was designed by Mr. C. Henman. It was opened, on 19th May 1896, by their Royal Highnesses the Prince and Princess of Wales.

The library forms a continuation of the corporation offices, but is recessed 45 feet from the face of the former, the entrance being in the angle so formed, immediately under a clock tower. On entering, a short double flight of steps, with marble balustrade, leads to a hall 20 feet square, and lighted from the top. Here is the office of the chief librarian, with glazed sides, placed so as to command the "Braithwaite " Hall, lending library, and entrance-hall.