The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin (Ch. 8), by Benjamin Franklin

<p>In 1731 there were not many books in America. Franklin saw the need for more books and by house-to-house canvassing persuaded Philadelphians to aid him in founding a public library which to-day stands as a lasting memorial to Franklin. (Volume 1, Harvard Classics)</p> <p>Benjamin Franklin died April 17, 1790.</p> <p> </p>