I have fond memories of the library I went to as a child. I can remember climbing the stairs to the large historical brick building and the way my footsteps echoed on the wood floors inside. When I was old enough to go into the children’s room alone, I felt grown up and proud and the librarian always seemed so magical to me, like a Disney princess who gets to be the keeper of books.
My mother loved to read. Many of my memories of her are of her sitting on the couch lost in a book. As a “housewife” in the 50’s she never learned to drive and seldom went out of the house, but every three weeks she would pull out a stroller, pack up her kids and walk to the library. No matter what.
Surprisingly, I am the only one of her three children who became an avid reader. I can’t imagine a life without books. They have taught, inspired and entertained me my entire life. I can honestly say that reading has been a large part of my personal growth, healing and learning. With books, I have access to endless wisdom and knowledge that has and will continue to guide me through life.
When I moved to a small town in Missouri, I was invited to be on the board of the local library, and it has been an honor to serve our community in this way. Our director and team do an incredible job of promoting reading, learning and providing other services. They are amazing!
What many don’t know is that libraries are about much more than reading books. They are about supporting communities in multiple ways. Even in a small town, our library offers:
- Hotspots for internet access
- Computers and copy machines
- Resources for veterans
- Passports
- Notary services
- History and genealogy resources
- Craft classes for children and adults
- Clubs for all ages (Anime, D & D, thread arts, books, etc.)
- Many children’s programs (my favorite lets kids read to dogs)
- Summer events (last year we even had walking dinosaurs)
- Thousands of books and multiple ebook services
I know of other libraries offering tool and medical device lending, meeting rooms and even exercise classes. (I have a friend addicted to the line dancing classes at her local library.)
Librarians are creative people, so the possibilities are endless. I encourage you to check out your local library and what they offer if you haven’t already. You might be surprised.
At the heart of every library and librarian there is a love for books and the people who read them. While we have many options for book buying now, our local libraries continue to lend them for free. They are committed to providing access to books for everyone in the community and supporting children in growing up with a love for books and reading.
Just like my mom did for me.
There are times when I think of my mom and the gift she gave me with those many trips to the library. She has been gone a long time now, but sometimes I think of her smiling down at me as I walk into those library board meetings.
I know that she would be happy and proud.
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Please feel free to share your library or reading experiences in the comments below.