Bookworm Wednesday

That Thing I Have with the Library.....

I grew up with books littered all over my bedroom floor, propped in front of teddy bears and stacked in piles by the bed. But, I had a small fear of the library. Yes, of course, I always had the urge to dive in knee deep, wildly exploring Winnie’s Hundred Acre Woods and grasping at Laura Ingalls’ pigtails. But, the rigidity of the library frightened me. The stacks of books were so orderly and controlled. Was this a book prison, with fines and strict rules about visitation? To add fuel to the fire, my teachers chimed in about Dewey and his complicated decimal system. I was simply spooked by the librarian's Head Mistress appeal and snarling threats of mounting late fees. Of course, on Sundays, I still paid those imprisoned books a visit, supervised visits naturally. But, I was fearful to venture there alone.

Then I fell in love with bookstores. Dewey was delightfully absent from their bookshelves. Books were stacked in inviting pyramids showing off their shiny new jackets. Cozy couches nestled in quiet corners by even cozier fireplaces. The salespeople lacked fangs and met you with a smile rather than a hiss. Music played. Food was served. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air.

Unfortunately, in time, simple economics made me re-evaluate that little thing I had with the library. Afterall, $15.98 is a stiff price for a quick read and the re-sale price is dismal.

I entered the library with my double stroller, head held high and decided I would put that ruler wielding, bun wearing, hissing book warden to work for me. And , it worked. Eager to get my whiney children out of the adult section of the library, she put that hustle in her bookish bustle. She even suggested that next time I hop on my home computer, and place my desired book on hold. She pointed to the “On Hold” bookshelves that lined the library lobby and gave a head nod to the self check out computer. The picture began to form….a non-librarian library visit? Just me, a computer, and all the free books I wanted (provided I return them on time?) Gulp. Oh, I have found heaven.

These days, I dart into the library to pick up my requested book and then let my little ladies run wild in the children’s section. Sometimes we even catch storytime. Yes, I have been guilty of incurring some overdue fines. (pennies) But, now I open my pocketbook, and nod at my gaggle of gals. “I haven’t known the day of the week since I gave birth 3 years ago.” This is usually met with a smile, sometimes a suppressed giggle and an occasional snort of disgust, but I can leave with my dignity intact. Heck, I am even a bit smug knowing that I managed to read Tolstoy while juggling two monkeys. Look at me. I am a regular book circus!