Today is President’s Day, which for me means no software geek work today. That in itself is a celebration.
I hope that everyone had a great Valentine’s Day. I still have a love hangover from yesterday’s wonderful festivities so I thought I would share my great love for the library. It’s where I’ve spent most of this holiday.
I could be shopping for furniture for my empty rooms as one of my friends suggested, but I would rather spend it here at the library working on my novel. Getting a new futon or a sofa won’t help me reach my goal of finishing this writing project (although, I would have more places to sit and write at the house).
Most writers have this kind of loving relationship with the library. I first started my own love affair as a reader. My mother is a renowned reader. She had trunks and trunks of books everywhere — so I got it honest from her.
We would spend literally all day at the library. I still remember the blinking lights indicating closing time. I remember the joy and ecstasy (I’m so not kidding) when I received the beige library card — the “big girl” library card that meant I could go to the “other side” and check out books for adults.
Now as a writer, I still love the library. I love that there is a place made sacred with shelves upon shelves of books. I love browsing the titles and picking up something by fate — something that I can learn from and/or be entertained. I love discovering new subjects and authors.
I also love the librarians who I know by name. And that when I’ve been gone for a minute, they ask where I’ve been. It’s nice to be missed.
There are many things that I love about the library — it is my home away from home. A kindred spirit that shares my love of books.
I heart the library.
I post about the craft and how I balance writing with a day job. Other topics include books, authors, conferences, and diversity related to literature for kids and teens.
Jemi Fraser
February 15th, 2010 at 6:07 pm
I completely agree! I love the library as well - the sounds, the smells… Hope we one day have books in their as well
Karen
February 15th, 2010 at 7:29 pm
I think my library would love some of your steampunk on the shelves.
Caroline Starr Rose
February 15th, 2010 at 8:30 pm
It’s such a noble idea that we can borrow books for free. I love it.
I took my boys today, and we made sure to pick up some books on CD for a road trip. So much is available. Thanks, Ben Franklin!
Karen
February 15th, 2010 at 8:34 pm
I love it when parents take their kids to the library. You’re instilling a life-long love of book and media in your boys.
I didn’t know it was Ben Franklin’s concept. Wow, the things you learn on the blog. Ha.
Vicky Alvear Shecter
February 15th, 2010 at 8:40 pm
I agree! Libraries make me feel all warm and hopeful inside. The anticipation! Oh, what wonderful book will I read next!!
Karen
February 15th, 2010 at 8:47 pm
Exactly Vicky! I thought it was just me, ha.
I always leave the library with something. I left with three books today.
Melissa
February 15th, 2010 at 11:34 pm
I completely agree! What’s wonderful is I’m passing the tradition on to my two little ones!!