HISTORY OF THE TOWN OF MEDFORD, Middlesex County, Massachusetts, FROM ITS FIRST SETTLEMENT, IN 1630, TO THE PRESENT TIME, 1855.
Charles Brooks, Ed.

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The selection of books, thus far, has been marked with scholarly taste and Christian principle; and, should the town adopt this library, and enlarge it to meet the wants of the entire population, and make it free to all, it would be a benefaction of inconceivable value.

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West Medford lyceum and library Association

was established by the zeal of Mr. T. P. Smith, and was incorporated in 1852. Mystic Hall, built by him, has been used for lyceum lectures and similar purposes. Valuable books, contributed at first by distinguished individuals from abroad and by neighbors, laid the proper foundation for a useful and free library.

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Sunday-School libraries.

Each of the religious societies in Medford has expended money freely for the purchase of books suited to children. The libraries contain, on an average, three hundred volumes; and the books are selected with judgment and taste. Additions of new books are made every six months; and the older books are often given to destitute schools in the country.

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Teachers' libraries.

The commentaries and histories which explain the Sacred Scriptures are gathered into libraries for the free use of the Sunday-school teachers, and are also used as manuals in the Bible classes.

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Lyceum Lectures.

These seem to have become an institution. Where societies have not been formed, for the purpose of securing lecturers, towns have taken up the duty, and large annual subscriptions have been made. Thus the ablest scholars have been brought before the community, and have instructed and charmed thousands by their learning and eloquence. Medford early adopted the prevalent system; and, for several years, has enjoyed, through the winter, a weekly lecture from the circle of favorite orators. The Town Hall has been filled, and the most friendly feelings promoted. As each itinerant