Memories vs. Bad Architecture

I had a great time as child in that library. They had a fun children's section, special reading events, and reading programs through the summer encouraging us to reach certain goals. The library has what they call the “Bookmobile” which is nothing more than an abbreviated library on wheels, visiting schools and remote locations, bringing the library closer to the kids. I still remember the joy of climbing into it and running to the mystery section looking for a Sherlock Holmes or Encyclopedia Brown story I had not read. I don't know how often we went to the library, my mother would know as she usually took us. What I do remember is walking down the stacks of books, looking over the titles, pulling a few out to read the covers and a paragraph or two, and leaving with a small stack of books. (I also remember checking out old radio stories for long trips).

By the time I was in Jr. High I had already made myself at home in the young adult fiction, reading as many fantasy novels as I could get my hands on. I still remember those shelves and that time. I remember the sun streaming in through the windows, the hush over the library, and the fantastic view I commanded from the balcony of the second story. But most of all I remember reeling at the myriad of adventurous, imaginative, and exciting stories that surrounded me. I still get that way sometimes, but as I now have less time to read than I did back then it is a bittersweet feeling. Back then I thought I could read all of them, and now I know better. I will never read all of the good stories. I will run out of time and leave books unread and untouched.

i don't regret getting older. I have a capacity to enjoy books like I have never had before, but I do so miss the sheer amount of time I had to wander through a library daydreaming about the books surrounding me, and leave with a short stack of books I would only have for three weeks. These days I am lucky to get to sit down and read for more than fifteen minutes at a time. I have to resort to audio-books. Although, I am working to one day have a book with my name on it in libraries, and then I could, in some small way, contribute to the joy libraries brought (bring?) to me.

Funny isn't it? Funny how an ugly building can hold such fond memories for me.