[4] In 1863 the botanist Alexander Croall was appointed the first Librarian and Curator and the following year the museum and library were joined together.

[5] Although the possibility was considered by the council, Derby Borough did not take advantage of the powers conferred by the 1850 Act for some years.

[2] A suitable home for this material was needed, but it wasn't until the following year that the Borough was able to provide the people of Derby with a free library service, as a result of Mr. Bass's gift.

On Saturday 28 June 1879 Mr. Bass performed the official opening of The Derby Free Library and Museum, the cause of great celebration in the town.

The party then moved on to the Free Library itself, where Mr. Bass took a tour before returning to the steps and declaring the building open.