At My Library

A trio of ghosts invaded the New York Public Library's Rose Reading Room on May 8.

Never fear, though. Four Ghostbusters, recreating a scene from the classic movie, were there to chase those evil apparitions from the premises and make the library safe for patrons.

Front Page Slideshow Image: 

As a child, I knew that trips to the library were to be a part of my routine, as much as brushing my teeth, or picking up toys, but not one that had to be told to me more than once. Like savoring a warm meal with family, it was part of what we did as children, part of what our parents taught us to do. I was fortunate enough to have parents who graduated from college before people had televisions in their homes. They were both voracious readers, and they passed that on to me. One of my earliest memories is of the children’s department of our library in suburban Virginia .

As a young child, I had frequently checked out library books for pleasure. I always thought it was amazing to see the prices of books at stores, realizing that those same books could be borrowed for free at the library. Since there wasn't money for extras, the Winfield Public Library became a constant source of entertainment. Nancy Drew had me dreaming of becoming a teenage detective and the Little House on the Prairie series had me believing I was born during the wrong time.

I learned recently that there’s a word for people like me:  bibliophile, “a person who loves or collects books.”  This condition started in the basement library of the grade school I attended.  My Hispanic parents worked as laborers in the fields, farms and factories of rural Idaho to support a family of eight.  There wasn’t a lot of extra money for books.  They did encourage us to read though, and I started early.  The first book I mastered was The Cat in the Hat Beginner Book Dictionary by the Cat Himself and P.D.

Oh, how I love the library - let me count the ways!  My love affair with the library began as a child at the Mesa Public Library in Arizona. I remember going with my mom up to the big counter and getting the coveted yellow card. It was like my own personal yellow brick road.  I soon was able to escape to where the wild things are and to find a wocket in my pocket!  Growing up with five brothers and an older sister caused me to need an escape on several occasions.

In these uncertain economic times, here’s a truth that I have found
Using the Scott County Library is financially sound!

Years ago, when sudden unemployment left me in a lurch
I used the library to help with my new employment search

We visit the library as a free Saturday morning excursion
For parents, a break in routine is a welcome diversion!

I love the on-line card catalogue and use it quite frequently
If time is money, the library saves this precious commodity
With just a few clicks of the mouse

I had the entrepreneurial spirit but no expertise. I had no money. But I did have my public library card. Read more.

“During the months following my son’s death, the library was once again with me, with all its magical information and support. As I tried to work through my grief, I found the library a soothing and supportive place to visit… My library became a safe place to rebuild my life.” Read more.

“The library made a significant difference in my life.” Read more.

“The library staff guided my reading, nurtured my curiosity, and taught me to respect myself simply because they respected me.” Read more.