By 1860, the function of this room was that of a reference library. Members of the legislature could, and did, borrow books. The library was also served by lawyers who appear to have been good considering the lists of books which were periodically published as having been removed from the library. The public may have made use of the Library as a reference room without circulating privileges. There was no public library at the time.
Books contained in the Library included journals of the assembly and council, collected statutes and annual reports of various departments. As well, there were popular circulars such as Blackwood's Magazine. British jurisprudence and history were much in evidence as well.
The Library also seems to have served as a museum. In 1861, guide books to Charlottetown listed geological specimens placed in the Library by an early Maritime geologist.
This room was a typical reading room of the period. Gentlemen would come here expecting to read, be caught up with local news from the newspapers, engage in pleasant conversation, have a smoke, and just as possibly have a sip of sherry. The room was intended to be pleasant and comfortable as well as informative.
Click on any vrml object to discover more information on the Library.
Sources
Parks Canada Research