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In the general scheme and organization of the
Institute, I wish it to provide:
First. For an extensive Library, to be well
furnished in every department of knowledge, and
of the most approved literature; which is to be
maintained for the free use of all persons who may
desire to consult it, and be supplied with every
proper convenience for daily reference and study,
within appointed hours of the week days of every
year. It should consist of the best works on every
subject embraced within the scope of its plan, and
as completely adapted, as the means at your com-
mand may allow, to satisfy the researches of stud-
ents, who may be engaged in the pursuit of knowl-
edge, not ordinarily attainable in the private li-
braries of the country; it should be guarded and
preserved from abuse, and rendered efficient for
the purposes I contemplate in its establishment,
by such regulations as the judgment and expe-
rience of the Trustees may adopt or approve. I re-
commend, in reference to such regulations, that it
shall not be constructed upon the plan of a circu-
lating Library; and that the books shall not be
allowed to be taken out of the building, except in
very special cases, and in accordance with rules
adapted to them as exceptional privileges.
Second. I desire that ample provision and ac-
commodation be made, for the regular periodical
delivery, at the proper season in each year, of lec-
tures by the most capable and accomplished schol-
ars and men of science, within the power of the
Trustees to procure. These lectures should be di-
rected to instructions in science, art and literature ;
they should be established with such regulations
as in the judgment of the Trustees shall be most
effectual to secure the benefits expected from them,
and should, under proper and necessary restrictions,
be adapted to preserve good order and guard against
abuse, be open to the resort of the respectable in-
habitants, of both sexes, of the city and State ;
such prices of admission being required, as may
serve to defray a portion of the necessary expenses
of maintaining the lectures, without impairing
their usefulness to the community.
In connection with this provision, I desire that
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