Published: June 25, 2008 02:39 pm            

Library shelf

The library — what a wonderful, magical place this is for all ages.

I remember visiting our library when I was growing up. There were many large steps to climb to the giant heavy doors.

When I passed through the doors, it was like going into a different world. It was cool and quiet, and there were shelves and shelves of books, stretching from the floor to the ceiling.

I was amazed and awestruck. All of these books in one place, just waiting for someone to pick them off the shelves and read them.

My family was a family of readers and we had many books at home, but there was just something special about choosing a book to borrow from the library.

The decision of which to select was always very difficult, but at last I would have my book in my hands and I felt so important.

Watching all the children who are enrolled in the Summer Reading Program, I see many of the same emotions I recall from my childhood. They are excited about the programs, seeing their friends, selecting books, participating in what the library has to offer them this summer. I also see a new generation of readers and learners, those who will be our future.

At my childhood library, one had to be VERY quiet. Here at the Stillwater Library, some days are not so quiet, and it is extremely difficult to squelch the enthusiasm of some of our youngest patrons. Before the noise level coming from the children’s area gets to you, think back on your childhood and what the library meant to you.

Yes, it’s everyone’s library, and how wonderful it is to share it with all these new readers.

        

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