Missing our Library While Sheltering at Home
Our 3 year old’s interest in gardens didn’t begin at home— it began in the pages of borrowed books.
As a mother, a tiny house resident, and curious business owner, the ritual I’ve missed the most while Sheltering at Home is visiting our local library.
“Libraries are essential for the health of our democracy, our communities, and our future.”
— Wanda K. Brown
When West and I are scooting through the aisles and he spots a book we’ve checked out in the past, he greets it as though it’s an old friend. These interactions pushed me past my urge to buy and cling to books, and inspired me to pass along much of our collection to a local branch. (I’ll admit that when I notice one of my old copies on a shelf, I give it a little, loving brush with my fingers as I tip-toe on by...)
Once, while I was chatting with a librarian at the check out counter, West looked up at a photo pinned to a bulletin board and jubilantly exclaimed (at a not-so-library-friendly decibel), “Everyone, look! It’s Mae!” as he recognized Dr. Mae Jemison from the illustrations in books we repeatedly borrow. What kids read MATTERS— even at just 1-3 years old, which is one of the reasons I am so grateful for The Conscious Kid’s ongoing book recommendations.
Even now, when we can’t visit our library due to the pandemic, we can still borrow titles online, free of charge. And while I don’t love reading children’s books to West on a screen (via the Libby App), this has been a wonderful way to incorporate new learning activities and entertainment while on lockdown without having to buy something new.
“Many libraries serve as first responders who take on roles outside of traditional library service that support patrons’ needs and community development. Functioning at various times as career counselors, social workers, teachers and technology instructors, library staff give special care to adopt programs and services that support the most vulnerable and curious.” - American Library Association
Our library teaches and gives us so much. Here’s to supporting and funding community resources that enrich our lives, provide us with an ongoing education, remind us of the delight of sharing, and exist for EVERYONE to enjoy together.
