Libraries

“Libraries are the thin red line between civilization and barbarianism.” Neil Gaiman

old books in a library in Spain

When I was in college, studying social work, I was given the assignment of asking three people what they felt were important social services in a community. I queried my friend Beth, an English major, and she answered, unequivocally, that a good library was essential. She made such a good point that I have remembered her response for more than 50 years. I don’t even recall who else I interviewed on this topic (a professor, another friend) as they probably gave more standard responses.

I, myself, have relied on libraries for reading material all my life. First, growing up, my father took my brother and I to our local library every Wednesday evening after dinner. Libraries were quiet places back then. The rule was to talk in whispered voices only and only when necessary, like when checking out books. The libraries whispered, too. This quiet ambiance added to the intrigue of this place of knowledge. I always came home with the four books that allowed out at any one time on a library card.

As a teenager, I lived in the Netherlands for a year with a Dutch family. I learned to speak and read Dutch but, occasionally, for a more familiar and relaxing reading experience, I went to the local library to borrow one of the few English fiction books they had. I read Jane Eyre that year.

I am an avid reader, having averaged a book a week starting back in my high school years. I occasionally download a book onto my e-reader (particularly on a stormy Sunday afternoon in the winter when my library is closed). When I have a long solo drive to do, I often listen to a book via my Spotify account. And I occasionally order a book from a publisher, particularly when it is something unavailable in other ways. But, mostly, I use my library, which is in consortium with other libraries throughout my state and can, therefore, provide me with almost anything I want.

These days, I shelve books at my local library. I started this volunteer gig a couple of years ago. I like being part of keeping the library running smoothly. And I’ve learned some things about the Dewey decimal system that I didn’t previously know.

When my own book was published, my launch was at my library. About fifty community members came out to hear me read my memoir and talk about my writing process. My library has been good to me, so I am good to it.

Reading can provide escape, solace, knowledge, food for thought, and more, all of which can foster resilience. How important are libraries to you?