Note 10 — PREFACE

Franklin did not present a library to Philadelphia, but he is properly regarded as the founder of the Philadelphia Library, which he called "the mother of all the North American subscription libraries." Conceiving the idea of establishing such an institution, he drew up a plan (1731), and solicited subscriptions among his friends. By March following, twenty-five persons had paid their subscription of forty shillings each, and an order was sent to England for books. Franklin continued to take an active interest in the enterprise, aiding in selecting books, and from time to time donating volumes. The Philadelphia Library now occupies two large buildings, and contains over 190,000 volumes.—Ed.