The Library: One of my Favorite Things

Shades of “raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens.” This week, at the diner, we’re talking about favorite things — all kinds of favorite things and how they help us do our jobs. What’s my favorite writing tool? you ask. (You were curious, weren’t you?) What must I absolutely must to write fiction? Answer: The local library. It’s more than a place to me. I have a passion for reading and researching. Writing is a learning adventure for me and what better place to pursue it than the library ?

This is actually the library at Trinity College in Dublin, but doesn't it look impressive?

Thirteen Things I Adore About My Library

1.You can check out MP3s, DVDs, magazines, audiotapes, CDs, book kits, computer software, puppets and all kinds of things.

2. And, of course, if you’re actually interested in finding a book, the library has tons of them.

3. You can read the local newspaper. Or scads of area and distant papers, too. My library even has cozy chairs, so you can really settle in. Careful, though, not to snooze.

4. You can make copies, use a computer or even reserve a study room.

5. You can request a book you want to read, either over the Internet or in person, and the librarians can help you hunt it down, if need be.

6. If the book isn’t in the local system, they’ll try to borrow it from other systems. A library patron’s “reach” is enormous.

7. You can access the Card Catalog online, making it possible to browse from the comfort of your home.

8. There’s always someone around who can suggest a good book to read. I always find lots of friendly people at my library, seldom reluctant to speak to a stranger. A love of learning is a great common denominator.

9. You can renew books online and keep track of your account. No need to get in the car and drive frantically to the library to return a book soon to be overdue.

10. You can download MP3 books.

11. Libraries have book clubs, perfect for those who love fiction as I do.

12. As a Mom, I appreciate the children’s story times, too -- always a part of each year’s program agenda

13. This certainly is a place for adults as well as kids. I look for adult classes, mainly evenings.
How about the frequent used book, video, CD, cassette and DVD sales? What better use for an extra $5, $10 or $15? I have a relative who spends $25 annually on U.S. history and how-to videos/DVDs that the library seeks to clear out.

What’s your favorite writing tool? What helps you do your job better? Do you have a favorite place or writing tool? I’m eager to hear.

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