Every five years, or thereabouts, we would pack up our belongings and moved to another town, another state, or more likely than not across the country. The first thing I would do when settling into a new town would be to find the public library. It made me feel at home; the library was, and still is, the place where every community comes together.
When we were kids a weekly trip to town was the highlight of the week. It was all about band concerts, ice cream socials, playing with friends and a trip to the library. I loved browsing through the stacks of book and picking out five or six to take home with me. The next stop would be the corner store to spend my allowance (twenty-five cents a week) on a sack of nickel candy. It didn’t get any better than that.
I still visit the public library at least once a week. I pick up an armful of books and feel the same sense of anticipation that I did back then. Today I treat myself to a latte instead of a sack of candy but the idea is the same…comfort for the soul.
The library has changed over the years but always for the better. You can actually see your tax dollars at work. The changes may seem a little overwhelming if you have been away for a long time, but please don’t let that keep you away. Your library is still the friendliest place in town and the books, movies, classes, computers, newspapers and magazines all still free.
Yes, it is true that the old card catalog has been replaced by a computer, but there are still thousands of books on the shelves at each branch. If you can’t find what you are looking for, a friendly librarian will help you find or order from another library in the system.
Many libraries have mobile units that make library services available to homebound individuals, senior facilities, daycare centers and schools. There are treats and delights for patrons of every age, so don’t be a stranger.
Reading is your key to a lifetime of learning. Reconnect with your public library and be a citizen of the world.
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