Who's Happier @ the Library?

by Victoria S. Kim

Vicky:  It was culture shock when I first moved to the Little Cove valley from the Washington D.C. area. All my life, my libraries were within walking distance, but now it was 15 miles away, mostly uphill. Then I heard about the Franklin County Library Bookmobile, which some 30 years ago used to stop at the little village a mile away. I called the county library system and offered them a few places where I’d gotten permission to park the big RV. Fortunately one spot they picked was just next door at the local church’s parking lot (where the plumbing was always available).  So began my happy relationship with the Bookmobile.

Spot:   After my ignorant puppy years, I noticed that the sound of one particular heavy vehicle meant my owner would lug bags to the car and drive away, but she would stop just a short run past home territory! As the big white van passed by the farmhouse, it even honked a horn! I love racing the car down to the big white van, and usually it means I get a ride in the car back home again!  Bliss!

Vicky:  Each time a dozen to 30 books come home with me, books on tape for my husband’s long commute, and VHS tapes or DVDs. The librarians know my taste and have several books pre-selected for me, and I add to the pile from the shelves, perusing over the years the juvenile to the young adult selections for my kids. I eventually found the online catalog for reserved books, and once after a subject request, I received a whole folder of photocopied scientific literature from the university library across the state. I even sampled one of the 500-piece jigsaw puzzles onboard, which had only 4 pieces missing.

As a Bookmobile patron, I have four whole weeks to read my treasures, and almost unlimited renewals, so no late fees. I keep a shelf in the house just for the library books. I feel blessed, so I contribute to library fund drives.

Spot:  The humans on the Bookmobile are friendly. Now that I’m mature and my behavior is that of a good dog, they let me come in to greet them and get pats. Now I’m even getting round trip rides in the car. Heaven!