These are only suggestions as to lines of investigation. When finally the needs and shortcomings of the town are known to all, practical work to improve conditions may be undertaken.
The best plan is to get a few of the many books on town betterment and read them before any reform is undertaken. In addition to readings from these, and papers showing what has been done in other towns on similar lines specialists should be asked to speak to the club, and the public invited to hear them. For instance, a professor from the nearest agricultural college may lecture on pure milk; on water supply the town engineer may speak; on the question of bettering the public schools the state superintendent may be invited. It is better to spend a whole club year in study and accomplish only one practical work for the town betterment, than enthusiastically to begin on a dozen lines and yet really gain nothing substantial in the end.
II—THE BEGINNING OF SOCIAL SERVICE
When at last, the town is clean and sanitary, and the improvements made which have been outlined, then, and not till then, some of the interesting new lines of social service may be studied and put in practice.
And first, a charity organization should be founded, no matter how small the town may be. All the churches and every individual should work in coöperation with it.
After this, if there are mills in the place these may be visited, and with the consent of the owners night schools and recreation centers of all kinds for the employees may be established.
Another committee may get new books for the town library.
Medical and dental inspection of school children will also be of value, and the town doctors will aid in it.
Pure food should certainly be studied, with investigations and recommendations of clean markets and groceries.
Child welfare is a most important subject. Fresh air funds, children's summer camps, the prevention of infant mortality, children's clinics and the like will grow out of its study.