My local library branch.
Isn't it adorable?
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You're either a library person, or you're not. I happen to be one. I
wasn't raised in a library family, so to speak. Don't get me wrong; we
had a few books, but we owned them. My parents just never got in
the groove of taking us to the local public library.
.
My first library experience was in grade school. I loved visiting the
tiny book lined room at the end of the beige linoleum tiled hall,
choosing my limit of three books, taking them up to the librarian's
desk to sign the cards and have the due date printed with one of
those adjustable rubber date stampers. I was a little snoop, too. I
always enjoyed looking at the book cards to see who else had
checked out the book and when. The part I couldn't get used to,
however, was returning them. I would bond with the book, the
characters, illustrations, even color of the binding and scent of the
paper. Resisting the urge to keep it was always a struggle when the
book came due. I haven't changed a bit since then.
.
By the time I got to high school, the library took on a duel purpose.
I adored browsing the shelves for a literary treat, (Gone With the
Wind, lots of Pearl Buck, Bronte and Steinbeck) but it became a
social hang out, as well. My three girlfriends and I would meet in the
school library, at our favorite bleached pine table in the sunny east
corner, faithfully each Monday through Thursday, during study hall
before lunch. Heads together, mini skirts adjusted, we all became
experts in the art of lip reading as we poured over the latest fashion
and pop culture magazines. To this day, I still find myself creatively
inspired by magazines and although I've cut down on many
subscriptions, there are a few I can't live without: Vanity Fair,
Elle Decor, Gourmet and Opera News.
.
Reading to my children was always high on my list and I'm not
exactly sure who enjoyed it most. The fond memories of my wee
cream puffs cuddled around me for an afternoon book, will always be
a joy. I have a weakness for children's books and continue to keep a
section in my personal library, which mysteriously keeps expanding.
.
I find I must visit my local branch at least once a week and know my
ten digit library card number by heart. By the way, did you know
that The Columbus Metropolitan Library has been rated the best
library system in the nation from Hennen's American Public Library
Rating? I am so incredibly spoiled. And, yes, I think it is safe to say
I'm a library person.
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Oh, and one more thing. Did you know when WT first asked me out,
we happened to be in a library? It was a sign.
