The Library Book

The Library Book

 

On a recent visit to a craft fair I picked up a fabulous book that I haven’t been able to put down.  It has made me laugh, cry and think – what could be better?

 

Full of short pieces by well and not so well known authors in support of libraries and why they are vital to the well being of us all.  From the buildings they are in, the books and equally, or possibly more, important the librarians.

 

Bella Bathurst writes:

‘People can be changed by books, and that’s scary.  When I was working in the school library, I’d sometimes put a book in a kid’s hands and I’d feel excited for them, because I knew that it might be the book that changed their life.  And once in a while, you’d see that happen, you’d see a kind of light come on behind their eyes.  Even if that’s something like 0.4 per cent of the population that ever happens to, it’s got to be worth it, hasn’t it?’

 

I’ve always felt that libraries are wonderful places and it is great to read of so many others that feel exactly the same way.  Places of wonder, excitement, safety, solace.  Ahhhh!  Kindred spirits.

 

Seth Godin’s insights into the future of our libraries, the importance of the right kind of bookcase in Alan Bennett’s plays and Lucy Mangan’s rules for her own library (I particularly like rule 9 being of a certain age myself!) are all well worth a read.  Even the forward by Rebecca Gray got me thinking about an idea to help the homeless.  Link donated books, a launderette out of hours and staff to provide refreshments and you would also help the homeless get their clothes washed and dried, an escape from the cold one night a week (or maybe more?), food and the offer of a book to take away on loan.  Anyone know anyone with any spare funds to get it going?!  Books provide an escape and as Rebecca reports, trusting a homeless person with a book creates a connection, improves confidence and becomes an emotional investment.

 

I loved it – how about you? &