Article December 5, 1959 Issue

The Free Lending Library

A well-stocked, representative, free lending library is one of the important features of a Christian Science Reading Room. By means of it the textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by our beloved Leader, Mary Baker Eddy, is often introduced to the newcomer; it supplies a need for the one who temporarily finds it inconvenient or impossible to purchase the authorized books; and it is a help to the visiting Christian Scientist who has not brought all his books with him.

A large number of those who use the lending library are newcomers whose interest has been aroused through listening to the radio programs or viewing the television series, "How Christian Science Heals." The invitation at the conclusion of these programs to visit a Christian Science Reading Room has been accepted by many; for example, there was the visitor who entered a Reading Room with an attitude of great expectancy. She said to the librarian: "I've heard the healings related on the radio; I've seen the happy, healthy individuals on the television programs give accounts of their healings. Now I must have the book." She purchased a copy of Science and Health for her own use.

In anticipation of increased lending library activity, many librarians have sought to improve this important function of the Reading Room. "Is the lending library truly representative of the high standard of Christian Science?" they have asked. In many cases the answer has prompted immediate improvements. For instance, in salesrooms where there is insufficient space to present the complete lending library on the visitors' side of the counter, a shelf or table large enough for the books in greatest demand has been provided. The ready accessibility of the books has enabled the inquirer to feel free to browse and make his selection.

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