RECREATION
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the introduction of more frequent and new extension activities such as book exhibitions, organized school visits and children's story- hours, etc, the libraries are fast expanding in use, issue, attendance and membership.
Expansion in service, bookstock and staff has been seriously considered. It is hoped that, with the additional branch libraries it is proposed to establish, some of the growing demand can be met of a population whose literacy and need for public library facilities are increasing year by year.
The Colonial Secretariat Library houses 11,155 volumes. These include many government publications, books written specially about Hong Kong (including publications by local authors), ref- erence books on such subjects as public administration, sociology, economics and political science and standard works on the history of the Commonwealth and of the countries of South-East Asia. Apart from being a departmental reference library, it is a useful source for research workers in matters concerning Hong Kong and is available to members of the public by arrangement.
The Hindu Association has set up 'Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Library and Reading Room' in the Hindu Temple, Happy Valley. The books and journals which are being kept in the library relate to religion and cultural heritage of India. The library is open to all citizens of Hong Kong of every nationality and religion, and books are issued to interested persons without charge. The library was opened by Mr V. Siddharthacharry, Commissioner of India in Hong Kong, on October 2, 1968.
THE BRITISH COUNCIL
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The British Council continued to make a valuable contribution to the educational and cultural activities of the Colony during 1968. In association with the Urban Council it presented two 'one-man theatres': Rosalinde Fuller appeared in dramatized short stories and Brian D. Barnes in 'Under Milk Wood' and 'Chestnuts' from English humorous literature. Both made radio and television appearances during their visits. Assistance was given to government departments and The Chinese University to enable staff members to visit British universities and other institutions and to attend specialist courses. Eight British Council