There are fewer places that put me more at ease than the library. Walking around among all those words, all those books that have been read by many, feels like a community. But at the same time, it’s also one of the quietest places to be. A great place to clear your mind — a truly meditative experience. And also, what goes better with a cup of tea, than a book?
As a kid I used to go to the library all the time. I loved reading so much, and many times challenged myself to reading goals, before Goodreads — or smartphones — existed (yes, that probably ages me a lot). I remember the day I got my first library card. I’m not sure how old I was, but I remember my mom took me, and I was so excited. I checked out tons of books — storybooks, science books with experiment ideas, fiction — I wanted to read as much as I could.
Then for a little while, after graduating high school, I fell out of reading. I’d read occasionally but not like I had in the past. But in the past couple years, I’ve fallen in love with it all over again. I enjoy buying used books, but recently, am starting to fall for the library again.
The internet is great, and ebooks are convenient, but there’s something about holding a book and physically turning the pages that never gets old. I also love the little free library book stands popping up everywhere — it’s a really cute idea to promote reading in communities. But I do hope that the future will continue to include full-size libraries, because nothing else compares to the experience of getting your first library card, and walking through rows and rows of books that you can borrow.
Let me know in the comments what you’re reading, and also if you’d like to see me do book reviews! I’ve done a few in the past, but not as much lately.
lifesacupoftea.com 
I feel the same way about books! When my mom took me to the library when I was a kid I’d horde em. I’ve always wondered if we paid the past dues on those books! Lol. Nice post!
Oh, what a lovely pleasure I allow myself to indulge in–the library and reading! I occasionally read books online, but there is nothing like holding a book in my hands and getting lost in the story. Going to the library is one of my favorite hobbies, and it helps that it is economical, too! I have a collection of my favorite books, but find it more efficient to borrow books and keep my possessions downsized.
Stephanie, I assume you participated in Accelerated Reader at St. Peter? You probably also visited the CMPL North Branch on 24 Mile Road… I’m still a regular ‘customer’ there and love their seasonal reading programs that actually award prizes for reading…how crazy (in a good way) and fun is THAT??!!
Oh, and having a nice beverage alongside my reading site also adds a certain ambience to this wonderful activity!
Take care,
Christel
(Did you catch that you hit on a special topic with this post?!)
Your post reminded me of how much I love reading and going to the library! I was a voracious reader growing up, but ever since I reallocated my free time during college years, I’ve been stuck in that “read occasionally but not like I had in the past” phase. I need to start setting aside time to read again. Thanks for the inspiration!
Aww, thanks Shannon! I definitely don’t go as often as I’d like, but being back in a library and going through the books made me so happy. It was almost a meditative experience. I hope you can find some time to read more! I’ve been trying as well, but it’s hard sometimes.