The Evangelical Library.
In the Magazine issue of May, 1950, reference is made to the above library, located at 78a Chiltern Street, London, W.1. Since that time, we are informed, this work has undergone considerable growth and development under the management of the librarian, Mr. Geoffrey Williams. The number of books available for use has risen to 120,000 and there are now 55 branches at home and abroad—in countries as far apart as South Africa, Ethiopia, Japan and Alaska. There is a branch at Gardenstown, Banff, which is much used by fishermen. From a number of letters sent to Mr. Williams it is evident that the books supplied by the library have been much appreciated, and appear to be doing a real service in the spread of sound evangelical knowledge. For the convenience of any of our readers who may wish to avail themselves of this source of reading material we reprint the following from the previous notice:—“The Evangelical Library makes available to its members for a minimum subscription of 7/6 per annum the largest collection of evangelical works to be found anywhere. Books are available by post or by personal application. It is obvious that the minimum subscription is purely nominal and cannot possibly cover the overhead costs. The library, therefore, looks to its friends throughout the world for financial support. Further information may be obtained from the librarian, Mr. G. Williams, 78a Chiltern Street, London, W.1.”
Growing Demand for Bibles.
The religious outlook generally throughout the world continues to be exceedingly dark. There is, however, one cause for thankfulness and hope. In some countries the demand for Bibles far exceeds the supply. This appears to be the case at the present time in South Korea, where there is even a considerable traffic in Bibles in the black market. The fact that some are willing to pay the exorbitant price demanded on the black market in order to secure a copy of the Scriptures indicates how great the thirst for the Word must be. The pity is that the supply is not sufficient to render traffic in the black market unnecessary. The situation also among the South American Republics appears to be encouraging, especially in Brazil, where it is reported that “the Gospel and those who preach it are welcomed, and the Protestant Church is growing apace.”