I was thinking of my history with libraries the other night when I couldn't sleep. How far back does it go? Childhood. I remember walking to the library by myself. What a reality moment. I just mapquested how far I had walked each week thinking it was at least 15-20 minutes. The library is only a half mile away from my old house and they figure 11 minutes walking. Oh those memories! Maybe it did take me 20 minutes; 8 year old legs, pulling barberry leaves off the bushes as I sauntered along to form little maroon roses. And of course the other wonder is did I really as an 8 year old go without an adult? I am sure I did for "those days" 1/2 mile was nothing. I remember carrying large picture books and then later as I got older the Bobbsey Twins series. My own first library card was a treasure. I felt so adult when I handed it over to the lady as my head barely met the top of the counter. And so my love affair with books and the library began early.
For a number of years I had been delivering books to the homebound as a volunteer every two weeks until my hip started really acting up 5 months ago. Another gentlemen began to share the visits giving us each once a month joy. Two months ago I had to let go of it all together and missed being with the cheerful people at our LaGrangePark Library. When I would pop in to pick up my books, folks would ask how I was doing and their caring reminded me of what a great enviroment I was missing. After talking with several ladies who organize the volunteers I decided on an in-house job where I wouldn't have to be hauling heavy bags of books and getting in and out of my car which was quite painful.
Once a week for 1 and 1/2 hours I am now replacing broken cd containers, a behind the scenes job that I never gave any thought to when taking out a cd. I am amazed at the number of cases that need replacing. For the past two weeks I have cleaned by machine some cd's that were scratched, and relabeled about 40 cd cases. I do love learning but can't say that I jump into experiences readily. It takes a forced situation for me. This is a case where my present infirmity is gifting me and I am grateful to be of help for others. When is the last time you were in your library? mjk
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