NATIONAL HOME-READING- UNION.
[To THE EDITOR 01 THE "SPECTATOR."] Stn,—An enormous number of books is once more promised us by the publishers for the winter season, and once more the difficulty of reading on any plan or to any real profit forces itself upon our notice. To the thousands of all classes, and not least among the working classes, who really wish to know more of the good books and the great movements of the world, but who are at a loss how to set about it, may we say that the National Home-Reading Union offers just the guidance and sympathy that they want? It is becoming increasingly well known every year, but there is plenty of scope for the extension of its valuable work ; and the present month, when the Union is beginning its winter courses, is just the time to join it. The Union suggests subjects of study, recommends the cheapest and best books to read in connexion with them, gives tutorial help through the post, publishes in its magazines articles about the special subjects of study written by well-known authorities, and encourages and assists in the formation of Reading Circles for mutual help and discussion. Special arrangements are made for the formation of Reading Circles amongst young people, and in elementary day and evening schools circles may be formed with the full approval of the Board of Education in place of ordinary reading classes. Among the subjects of study in the various courses for the new session are History of Ireland, Italian Art, Ancient Civilizations (Assyria and Babylonia), Keats, Northern Mythology, Some Problems of Social Relief, the Bible as Literature, Founders of the Empire (South Africa), Some Short Biographies, Dante, and General Literature. All who wish to take advantage of the help of the Union should write without loss of time to the Secretary at 12 York Buildings Adelphi, London, W.C.—We are, Sir, &c., J. HEREFORD,
Chairman of Council.
3. W. MacsAir.,
Chairman of Executive Committee.
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