My husband and I recently returned from a wonderful visit
with our three daughters, two sons-in-law, two granddaughters and
just-turned-one-year-old-grandson. With each passing day, time seemed to fall
faster and faster through the vacation hourglass. So we made a conscious effort
to stay present and savor each moment.
And there were many moments. We read aloud countless
books, took leisurely walks, looked at old family photos and took many new
videos as well. And of course, we ate -
like kings and queens from morning until almost bedtime every single day.
Whenever our family gathers, there is always an abundance
of food with an ever-eclectic variety of choices. Our clan includes die hard
carnivores, passionate vegans, gluten-free nibblers and all-out dessert
lovers. And yet, somehow, it all works,
and deliciously so.
At any given meal one could find biscuits and gravy,
fresh salad, spinach and blueberry smoothies, homemade guacamole, the soup de
jour, all followed by roasted s'mores on the patio. Never-ending family feasts.
And despite my intent to stay in complete vacation mode,
I have to admit my mind did meander down the work-path a time or two. The first time was when I was enjoying a spicy
bowl of dynamic southwest chili our oldest daughter made. The second time was when I was head over
heels in taste bud heaven when our youngest daughter presented us with her
wildly sublime pumpkin curry stew.
One might question the connection between bowls of
delicious soups and the public library, but to me it was pretty apparent. First, each soup was teeming with unique
goodness, just as every public library has its own individual approach, style
and staff. And although our daughters' two soups were as different in taste and
texture as culinarily possible, both were equally warm, filling and incredibly
delicious. So too, all public libraries share a common vision to provide free,
open, nonjudgmental access to materials and services.
I also observed how each of our family members approached
and enjoyed their respective bowls of soup.
Some of us kept it plain and savored each spoonful of simple goodness,
just as it was. Others took tidbit offerings on the table - from toasted garlic
croutons to dollops of sour cream - and made our bowls sing with variety.
The same can be said for one's approach to the public
library and all it has to offer. You can
keep it pretty traditional and check out great books and maybe a movie or
documentary to enjoy. Others might
prefer to dig a bit deeper across the table of library offerings and download
books to listen to or come to a sewing class or an enlightening program with a
Pulitzer Prize winning author.
The great thing is that the choices are yours and you can
always decide how you want to access and enjoy your public library. And all of
us at Neill Public Library are ever-ready to assist you - in person, on the
phone or online. We'll help you find
just what you want, or need, and also let you know about some new things on the
library's ever-changing menu. We're
ready, willing and happy to serve you - no bowls, spoons (or money) needed. So
bring your appetite for information, recreation and education. There’s a veritable feast ready for you to explore and
savor. Enjoy!
Kathleen Ahern
Children's Librarian
No comments:
Post a Comment