Read the two passages. Benjamin Franklin: A Biography
Ben Franklin was born in Boston on January 17, 1706. He is one of the "founding fathers" of America and is best known for the
contributions he made to his adopted city of Philadelphia, to the country, and to the world. He was a well-known and respected inventor and
community leader. Franklin understood and appreciated the value of education and of reading. During his time, books were both scarce and
expensive. Franklin formed the Library Company in 1731. He asked members to help purchase books so that the public would have an
opportunity to borrow the books. This was the nation's first "subscription" library-a place where citizens could find books of all kinds.
from The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin
"[The library] has become a great thing itself, and continually goes on increasing. These libraries have improved the general
conversation of the Americans, made the common tradesmen and farmers as intelligent as most gentlemen from other countries, and,
perhaps, have contributed in some degree to the stand so generally made throughout the colonies in defense of their privileges."
How does the quote from the autobiography best help the reader understand Ben Franklin's motivation?
O 1. It reveals that Franklin's interest in libraries was shared by others.
02. It shows that Franklin wanted to be recognized for his contribution.
3. It suggests that Franklin's libraries improved the
of his countrymen.
4. It emphasizes that Franklin worked hard to increase the number of libraries.