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We people are a strange bunch. We've constructed incredible cities, flown to the moon, and learned how to make pizza. However, we have yet to rid ourselves of all the insecurities, inequities, and injustices that plague our everyday life.
Luckily, there are libraries, places that are perfect for taking a break from all these nuisances. The idea that we ought to fill a building with books to borrow for whoever asks is just so beautiful in its simplicity. There is nothing but upsides to a calm, quiet area where everyone can hang out and read.
And a recent thread on Twitter illustrates this point wonderfully. It all started when one librarian from Atlanta recalled an experience they had with a confused woman.
David's wholesome tweet instantly prompted others to share their own stories of libraries being safe places, and has quickly evolved into a collective read that can warm even the coldest of hearts.
This post may include affiliate links.
#1
Renee Pfleegor 3 years ago
Your Big Brother/hero sounds like a GREAT man!! ❤️ So very sorry for your loss. He watches over you still... And, yes, he is definitely proud of you!! 😇😇😇🙏🙏🙏❤️❤️❤️
Meredith Stebbins 3 years ago
Sounds like your brother saw something extra special in you and did right by you. We all should be so lucky to have someone in our life like that, even if it isn’t for a long time. Sorry for your loss.
Dispatcherqueen 3 years ago
Please google Death is Nothing At All poem. It is too long to post here, but so beautiful to read. I'm sorry you lost your brother.
Siobhan Newman 3 years ago
You are blessed! And… so is he! May your memories of him continue to bless you!
Brian Bennett 3 years ago
Books and Big Brothers are two of the grandest things you can have. Remember he still walks beside you!
According to the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), libraries form an important part of the public service infrastructure, complementing other institutions such as schools, health centers, and cultural centers, as well as non-public actors such as NGOs.
They frequently have an explicit mission to serve all members of the community, in particular the vulnerable, and are associated with educational opportunities.
In fact, in many places, they are the only genuinely public indoor space. As such, there is both an opportunity and a duty to respond to the need for safe spaces.
RELATED:
#2
Agnes Jekyll 3 years ago
The banning of books, the burning of books, is one of the early signs of a dictatorship in power.
Mine Truly 3 years ago
My school had a poster that said, "Celebrate the right to read! Read a banned book," and listed banned books.
AmandaKay 3 years ago
I was in the 4th grade studying WW2, in which my grampa served in the Pacific Navy. I was to interview anyone who had survived the war. I chose Gramma who was a WAVE : Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service (WAVES). Grampa kept interrupting her interview saying we should never have fought in Europe they are "our" people I reminded Gramps I'm adopted & my family gave me up from a Native American reservation so I didn't find his argument relevant at all. He just kept insisting "our" family (his) is German & repeating "Hitler had goods ideas!". I got so fed up I walked down to the library to find Hitler's "goods ideas". I took out Mein Kampf. I couldn't check it out I had to read it in the reserved reading from for historical references that weren't allowed out of the building. I sat there confused, then horrified as I realized my Grampa was a terrible man & suddenly a lot of his diatribes began to make sense. I was in 4th grade when I learned the truth about Grampa from a book.
Beck Latta 3 years ago
i don't care if they "ban" the books if i can find a way to get ahold of the books i will read them
barry colley 3 years ago
Dear Sir : dark ages / burn witches / burn cities / burn countries / - all you have then is charred Earth.
Load More Replies... Aurora Borealis 3 years ago
Y'all should read words on fire. It is middle school reading level but it talks about how the Russians banned books when they took over luthuainia. It's is super good.
Maggie King 3 years ago
Bless all librarians, they are guardians of our most precious rights-free speech. I consider free public libraries one of the great sanctuaries, and equalizers ever. My 4 yo daughter and I went to our library twice a month, up to 11th grade. She read "Lord of the Flies", then came in and asked if we could discuss it. I teared up. We still read and recommend to each other.
#3
DennyS (denzoren) 3 years ago
They should! Libraries are so important. With all the technology these days people forget how wonderful libraries really are.
AmandaKay 3 years ago
When I was homeless I parked in the library lot because I knew the librarians wouldn't call the cops if they saw my car overnight, every night. My hometown had 3k residents but still regularly arrested or ridiculously large homeless population for vagrancy. We were "encouraged"to go to Milwaukee where we "belonged". We were all locals who lost jobs when the factories closed but sure go to a city you'd only ever been to 4-5 times for a school friend trip a decade ago & sleep in a box on the streets. That makes a load of sense.
Daniel Alicea 3 years ago
I like to think libraries are another dimension, one where anything can become possible.
MJ 3 years ago
I absolutely love this comment, and 100% agree with you. From the time i learned to read my mom took me and my sibs to the library regularly to feed the insatiable desire to read she cultivated in us. I remember sometimes just walking up and down the aisles, reading titles and touching books, and feeling like I was in a whole other world from the moment i walked into those doors until i walked out into the real world again.
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Adrienne Gallo-Girard 3 years ago (edited)
Librarian here. Thank you for your kind words. You just made me cry. We love you and we understand that being homeless is exhausting and scary. We want you to feel safe.
Shoto Todoroki 3 years ago
There was this one library that my friend's grandpa worked at where they would offer blankets and warm food to those who would come in seeking shelter from the cold. The homeless were also given plates of food for dinner and they were allowed to stay the night. Not sure if the library is still there though
Pam Spencer 3 years ago (edited)
There are actual studies that have been done that show a direct correlation between well funded libraries and successful, prosperous communities. Libraries do make a difference!
Ras Makist 3 years ago
I used to spend my days in the library reading when I stayed in a night shelter. So sad that the government is trying to close them.
Brian Bennett 3 years ago
A library is more of a sanctuary, than churches are! You can find warmth, best friends (books) and sometimes a decent human being!
#4
Kerry Bullen 3 years ago
I'm the same, the library saved me when I was a kid, still love them now
Chin-sun Ming 3 years ago
My parents care enough to get me clothes and food and an education, but when I’m reading a book I never feel happier, and recently my mother told me I am not aloud to get any more books and I’ve read my book shelf 5 times over plus once tried the dictionary for something new.
Stephanie IV 3 years ago
THIS! BOOKS CAN BE FRIENDS. PARENTS. LIFELINES. ALWAYS FUND LIBRARIES.
Shoto Todoroki 3 years ago
I want to say something about the library but I just also want to say that the pitbull is too cute
Melvetta Bowles 3 years ago
I read books at a age I should not have, my Mom was glad I was reading & librarians thought I was getting books for my Mom. Everyone was Happy
Jo Iverson 3 years ago
Was always a huge reader. Always had 2 or 3 books in my bag where ever I went. Then had a violent crime in my home . My PTSD literally changed my DNA. I don't read at all anymore and it makes me incredibly sad. Have never told anyone this before.
Jo Iverson 3 years ago
. . . speaking of PTSD, I also had the pleasure of evacuating for Katrina. First day in our evac center we went in search of the library. They gave us special guest cards. My closest friend happens to be a librarian.
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Jasam Nitko 3 years ago
I met my old librarian before the pandemic. It's been 35 years and I still felt happy and safe when I saw her.
Brian Bennett 3 years ago
I was never "neglected" in the true sense of the! word! But mum was strict if she said no noise - there hadn't better be any! She was a reader, She started teaching me to read @ 3 I caught on very quickly and could read kiddie books by 4. We went to the library every week because when I was reading I was quiet I think it made mum and I closer. Of course over the years my reading choices differed completely from hers (she was a romance novel addict) but I never told her what to read nor she me! Libraries are a lifesaver!
Information is a key driver of development; it is what allows us to take better decisions for ourselves and those around us, to innovate, and to create. Providing access to this information in a meaningful way is therefore essential to development, from the individual to the global level, and libraries play an integral part in delivering this.
While it has long been understood that a more literate and educated population is good for overall social and economic progress, some countries are increasingly underlining the direct role of libraries in reducing poverty, in promoting full and active citizenship, democracy, and free expression, and in supporting sustainability.
#5
DennyS (denzoren) 3 years ago
I get this. When you're between isles and isles of books, the smell, the feeling...everything feels safe. I used to like doing this at uni. Just randomly searching shelves alone. It was so much fun.
pigasus1 3 years ago
In the Sixties my mom would take me into our small Southern mountains town to our beautiful little Carnegie Library that he donated a hundred years ago in an attempt to whitewash the innocent blood from his greedy hands.... Anyway, we didn't understand it, but I have Aspergers, and it made my life especially difficult in my region and my era. I didn't understand how to relate to children, only adults, and I spoke honestly and directly, because that's all I understand... It got my ass whipped every day, to and from school. It made me tough, and too hard hearted towards my fellow man. I grew up and moved away a week after I graduated from high school, but I still treasure the memories of that cool basement library reading room, where no one could hurt me I could use my imagination to travel everywhere I read a in those books. I escaped my prison a few hours at a time. Thanks Mom, and Mrs Pyle the Librarian that watched my back for me. I made it!
Brian Bennett 3 years ago
i have worked with people with dementia- to me these people are living within themselves, I believe it is like being unconscious but unable to communicate or understand things! They must be treated with respect and kindness taken places that make them comfortable a lot of time if this is done their agitation just sorts of melts away!
Deborah Mays 3 years ago
There are two places I get this feeling of safety and peace, Library and bookstores. Sadly bookstores will soon be extinct
#It'sthatonepersonscrolling 3 years ago
WTF really? I don't understand the CONSTANT spamming on ALL articles.
Load More Replies... #6
Brian Bennett 3 years ago
My library had never been more than a few blocks of any place I have lived in in this town. You can be alone if you prefer but you can't be lonely in a library!
Hope Cows&Chickens 3 years ago
I'd be more inclined to go to Tigard's library more if it weren't in the same lot as the Tigard po-po
Phyzzi 3 years ago
Hey, I actually know where that library is... It's a suburb of Portland, OR and given the past tense in terms of when it was visited, I am guessing this is from the point when Tigard was almost still a sub-suburb. It just goes to show that even small library systems can make a big difference.
#7
SelkieBlackfysh 3 years ago
I worked security for a car sales lot and the owner had a friend who fell on hard times and lost his home. They let the guy sleep in the used cars building which was apart from the main dealership at night. He had an air up mattress and everything. Dude never caused me any issues and more than once helped me out when he noticed people being shady when I was patrolling elsewhere.
Brian Bennett 3 years ago
There are good people but you really have to find them. Librarians I have found are the best and so easy to find!
Riley Quinn 3 years ago
I think the reason the saying, it takes a village to raise a child, caught on in the US is due to the fact that our local/state/fed politicians don't give a fig.
The young, who are moving from a situation of dependence (being fed information directly by teachers or families) to independence, take on new responsibilities and must make big choices. As they collect new experiences and find out new things about themselves, the importance of being well-informed grows, as well as simply having a quiet place where they can be calm, and be themselves.
As each person discovers their identity, their information needs become more and more diverse. They often meet challenges – isolation, institutional problems, and literacy, amongst others (and often more than one at once) – that leave them particularly vulnerable. Rapid economic and social change can intensify these situations.
#8
DennyS (denzoren) 3 years ago
Librarians are awesome! I've know a few in my short lifetime and they're all been really nice people. Keep up the great work!
ZAPanda 3 years ago
Let me tell you about equity. I am in South Africa. A friend of mine grew up in a very poor community. There was a library nearby. After school most kids would walk home to their dilapidated houses or shacks and then go play soccer. He would go to the library. He now holds a masters degree in a science (I won't say which in order to protect his privacy from info triangulation), and he taught at a university. That success was just because he could go to a library.
Karen Fields Poasa 3 years ago
Books saved me. My mother was schizophrenic and my father neglected us. Libraries were my refuge and in my books I could be anywhere. Even years later, I still visit libraries weekly and borrow books and DVDs to entertain my whole family.
François Carré 3 years ago (edited)
Same here Erin. It's heartwarming to read this post. Some people think libraries are old-fashioned and kind of useless in the internet era. I tell them THEY are old-fashioned and naive - like they still live in the 1990's when we were told information technology and market economy would bring peace and prosperity to the world and be the definitive answer to everything. We are living harsh times. Democracy is retreating everywhere. A safe and open place of free access to knowledge is more important than ever.
Annie Heiliger 3 years ago
My heavily politically skewed county voted with am overwhelming majority to not increase funding to our one tiny library, despite an increase in population of 300% since the last upgrade. Reading these posts makes me so sad and upset that so many people don't realize the importance and benefit of a well-funded library for our community. They also voted not to expand funding to our local schools, despite having been at over capacity now for 5 years. What will we be in a decade if we don't support our children?
Brian Bennett 3 years ago
A librarian saw me sitting outside the kids area many moons ago, she asked me why I was not getting books as usual. I told her I read all I could in there -I could not take books out of the adult section (I was 11) but she said if my mom and they approved of the books I wanted mom could take them out on her card! Happy dance! I even remember the first grown up book I took out The Day of the Triffids by John Wyndom and I read everything he wrote from then on!
Cindy Czocher 3 years ago
My mom was a librarian. In high school, I worked in a library too, as a page , shelving books. I'm still always in the middle of 10-12 books.
#9
Paula McNeely 3 years ago
A man who reads many books lives many lives. A man who reads no books lives only one life.
Wolf gal 3 years ago
A woman lives thirteen anyways and an enby lives around seventy-six. /j (I totally get the meaning of your post don't worry I just had to make a bad joke)
Load More Replies... Teresa Marie Flemons 3 years ago
Thank you Mrs Nancy Sewell (RIP) and Rita Parikh from Selma Highschool Library Selma Alabama. Thank you both so very much for allowing me to spend so much time with you in our library🥰
Cold Contagious 3 years ago
Libraries can definitely open up new worlds for people of any age and allow them to escape reality if only for a short period of time.
Brian Bennett 3 years ago
One of the librarians lived in an apartment in the street behind our house (I didn't know it at the time) Told me she saw me sitting out in the backyard with my various critters reading. She asked me if I wanted to come up and see her little place -Stuffed with antiques we had milk and cookies she also had records with bird sounds and she introduced me to books about animals she opened my eyes to so much of the world I loved! RIP Miss Prichett!
Julius Zuke 3 years ago
And don't stop using libraries when you grow up. We went all across the U.S. tracing our family roots. The librarians were SO eager to help us, and we found information that will never make it to the internet. Screenshot...a092d3.png 
Riley Quinn 3 years ago
Every second I spent in a library, or pouring over the words in a book, was time I wasn't thinking about my home abuse.
#10
AmandaKay 3 years ago
My husband used to go to New Utrecht with his Gramma every week when he was a kid for "weekly stories". She'd get him a book & he would read it to her! He's in his 40s now & still has the fondests memories of that library too. So glad to hear they are a creeper free safe space!
Brian Bennett 3 years ago
I was only frightened once in a library! In our small town the library closed at 9pm, then I had the honor to clean it - apparently the door didn't lock when the librarian left and this very "student looking" fellow came in ranting and raving about something(unknown). Let me tell you I was so scared - so I just quietly asked him if I could help him find a book what was he looking for he seemed to calm down said he wanted such and such book I got it for him. He took it and as he left he said "You know you should make sure this door is locked you never know what kind of nut will walk in!" With that he left made sure the door was secure and I never saw him again! And I never got in trouble for giving that book away!
#11
Cold Contagious 3 years ago
It's awesome to hear about the wonder and awakening of the spirit that is being shared with us.
Brian Bennett 3 years ago
Bet that would feel like a USA kid walking into a free candy store! Books are so addicting and if you can't read for a while I don't know about you but I will go into with drawl! Gotta read every day!
Baali Venomax 3 years ago
you need a library card but yeah they are free in most places. Not in India then? Huh didnt know that.
MJ 3 years ago (edited)
I think we forget how blessed we are as Americans to have public libraries. Not everywhere in the world has the ability to walk out of their homes in broad daylight and go to a public building where people freely loans out books on just about any subject we can think of. Thank you to sharing this, and for the reminder.
"Libraries do see themselves as community hubs," Michael Lynn, Service Development Manager for the Northern Ireland Library Authority, explained. "We do try to offer that space that people need within communities if they want to come and browse books, if they want to engage in some of our activities, read a book, to study or use our computer facilities."
The organization oversees 96 physical libraries and Lynn said they're all different; each one has its own particular niche within the community. "Some of them are big bustling libraries, like city center libraries such as Lisburn and Belfast Central. But then you go into the smaller communities, not just rural communities, some of the smaller urban communities, and you find there is a real core of people who do use the libraries and depend on them and look forward to using them."
#12
Cynthia Avers-Williams 3 years ago
This is the kind of idiocy I grew up with... we then I read, I block everything else out. Total immersion. My mother would get mad because I didnt hear her call me from the other room so she would throw things and hit me to get my attention. Her favorite objects to throw? Books, of course.
Brian Bennett 3 years ago
Ah yes I remember it well. Its really weird the only thing I hear is if one of my cats or dog needs me! Phones TV, radio never hear them!
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Juanita Austin 3 years ago
When my son was 2 years old, we moved to a town where there was a library in walking distance to our home, and every Thursday they would have a special “story hour” for pre-schoolers. I began taking him there and he loved it (the children had special name tags made for them) and we went every week. After the story there was always some craft/project so the kids would have something to take home. Well, the week before Thanksgiving the story was Grandma’s Famous Cranberry bread and and the end the librarian gave each of the moms a copy of the cranberry bread recipe from the book. On the way home we stopped at the grocery store and I bought a package of fresh cranberries and we made a delicious loaf of Grandma’s Famous Cranberry Bread. I have done that every year since, only now I have to ship it to my son, as he lives in another part of the country. My son is 42 now, but we continue the tradition started by a creative librarian.
#13
#It'sthatonepersonscrolling 3 years ago
I love this so much!! The fact that you work with the Sesame St. crew && saw this && TOOK THE TIME to make a post to acknowledge this dear lady who obviously loves Elmo & the library 🙌💯
Brian Bennett 3 years ago
You know, I am too old to have been taught by Sesame Street (I'm 77) but I have seen reruns and I fell in love with Elmo! MY hubby asked me what I wanted for Christmas one year and I told him I wanted the talking Elmo doll - he got it Best present ever!
PitbullmomAF 3 years ago
Elmo was the last gift my mother gave my daughter before she passed, he got us through a lot 💙
debrina blackmoon 3 years ago
My 2 daughters (now 21 & 19) each still have their Elmo dolls from infancy:).
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#14
Agnes Jekyll 3 years ago
This is so true. That librarian who suggested books and took interest in you and smiled when you took books out. In homes where there is little to no encouragement or approbation, this means the world.
Brian Bennett 3 years ago
In our little town there were 2 librarians one who was kid of strict and one who was not! She was tall thin an had permed hair that looked like ab afro. She was considered an "old maid" back then but one of the most beautiful people that ever was put on this earth - I think I got more education for her than I did at home or at school! They are all cool but no one can touch Miss Prichett!
Riley Quinn 3 years ago
The first person who ever treated me like a human being was the librarian at our small town library.
Cherries and Lace 3 years ago
True librarians, I agree, random school staff in the library cuz they needed someone? Sadly not so much
Baali Venomax 3 years ago
Its sad. I wanted to be a librarian when younger but my Dad refused saying: You are too pretty to be one and not smart enough. There's this weird misconception that there is a barrier that if you look a certain way you are barred from certain jobs because only ugly people can do it. Yet I have never met a librarian that wasnt pretty. I wanted to work in Blockbusters too but he wouldnt let me do that either, not even part time. Same reasoning.
#15
Debra Helmlinger 3 years ago
Yes, yes, yes, Libraries are welcoming to everyone, spent 37 years as a Youth Services Libraians and helped many of all ages finding what they needed even when sometimes it was a place to be away from the outside world.
Brian Bennett 3 years ago
A library is the road from a harsh outside world to a beautiful calm any place you want to be World!
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Trish Fletcher 3 years ago
One little boy customer in my library looked up at me asked me what it was like to be a Library keeper, I felt like I should have a tshirt made with that on 😁
Libraries offer plenty of different types of events, too.
"We've got events for children in terms of school class visits and storytimes ... for moms and wee toddlers," Lynn said.
“We've got reading groups for adults, tea and newspaper clubs, Knit and Natter where groups can come together. We've got our digital offering as well, our Go On sessions that we run for people. They will cover all sorts of activities like scam awareness, using iPads, money-saving ideas, and tips, how to use WhatsApp and Zoom."
#16
Cold Contagious 3 years ago
That was very kind indeed. Above and beyond the scope of their regular duties.
Brian Bennett 3 years ago
I guess that's what libraries could be called a place of care and kindness no questions asked!
#17
Who cares what I think, but... 3 years ago
It bothers me that some people condemn that rich people in the past ONLY put money towards building libraries. They knew what they were doing.
Eucritta 3 years ago
I think it may be more that libraries - that librarians - became more than they intended.
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Carbonel 3 years ago
There may not be stigma but unfortunately there is a lot of misunderstanding about the role and need for libraries. Which I can basically sum up as “I don’t use libraries so why should my tax money pay for them” and “everything is available online anyway” (except it isn’t, and certainly not for free).
Sue Knerl 3 years ago
Our county and town in Casper WY, turns down funding for a new library, which we desperately need every year. They don't seem to understand how much the library means to so many people. When we were kids, I'd walk to the library all the time and wished I could have an adult card to check out as many books as I wanted. Children's cards were limited to the # of books checked out.
Brian Bennett 3 years ago
Our town in Ontario has a council like that - we finally got a new library - it is nice but not well funded! If it was where the classy assy people congregated you bet there would be funds! The only thing this town is for is MONEY right through the Mayor and dipshit councilors!
Load More Replies... Julius Zuke 3 years ago
Libraries do much more than stock books. They provide tax preparation, legal help, immigration help, psychological services, child care advice, and help with job searches.And tht's just for starters. Screenshot...f63621.png 
#18
Bart Suchecki 3 years ago
The librarian at my school would let me move the TV carts so I could hide from everything I created a sort of fort in a corner and read by myself, I loved her!
Sarah Elizabeth 3 years ago
My school librarian, Irene Stone rip, took me aside my sophomore year of HS and basically told me to get my sh*t together, stop acting like a thug, and explore my intelligence. I went to a very small country school that was 7-12 in one building. I smoked, partied, went to class high, and basically had a monumental chip on my shoulder because of the responsibilities I had at such a young age. I was still a 4.0 student, worked full time in a meat production plant to support my mom, and hated being one of the poorest kids in school. That conversation made a huge impact on my life. She saw past my poor attitude and unhealthy coping methods and was the only teacher with either enough guts or enough compassion to call me out. I went on to get two masters degrees, been married 23 years to the most wonderful man, and often thank her for calling me out and seeing my potential when I was blind to it.
Brian Bennett 3 years ago
Boy if she knew you liked to read - not just your favorite books or authors - she would give you books to give you insight into everything - Don't trap your mind into jus one thing you have to know a bit of everything to become a good human being she once told me. Thanks Miss White!
Shoto Todoroki 3 years ago
The school library is how I found my favorite book series Warrior Cats, the librarian even helped me get the whole first two series in our library
Ellie 2 years ago (edited)
me and some of my friends got into a fight during lunch today and I had gotten up and stormed to the library since its my safe place and the librarian saw me crying in the corner while reading a book and eating my lunch and she came over and asked what was wrong and if I wanted to talk about it. she gave me some chocolate after and told me that if I ever needed an escape to go to her and she'd help me.
Anna Tribe 3 years ago
My high school librarian was fantastic. He encouraged me to read everything possible. When I started at the school just before I turned 12 he had already been warned by the librarian at my old school and the local library had also been in touch telling him how fast I read so he decided to challenge me. If I read every single book in the school library, including an essay on each of the more complicated subjects, by the time I left school that he would give me a gift voucher for the book store for £150. I'd gotten to T when I suddenly had to move to a different country when I was 15. I still remember how kind he was to me.
#19
Cold Contagious 3 years ago
That's fantastic! She may have been being neglected, her medication may not be working as effectively, or her condition could be worsening. It was very kind of them to pay attention, be diligent and locate her family, and take care to inform them of the changes that they've noticed.
Brian Bennett 3 years ago
I used to be a nurse - it's great the librarians noticed the changes but why didn't the family?
Cherries and Lace 3 years ago
It says they were concerned that the group home wasn't caring for her properly. Family might have lived too far away, or it could be an older story from back when people were told the kind thing to do was lock their family away in a center than would "care for them properly".
Load More Replies...As Lynn said, it's not just about books anymore. Libraries are working to create something that meets the needs of everyone.
"It's also about bringing people together socially," he continued. "It's about trying to combat that social isolation that there is in urban and rural communities. It's giving people a sense of place, giving them somewhere they can come, they won’t be bothered, and do whatever it is they need to do."
And judging from this Twitter thread, people definitely value these efforts.
#20
Brian Bennett 3 years ago
You know what I liked most about libraries when I was a kid - corners - there were plenty of chairs and tables but I liked to sit and read in corners - and nobody told me I couldn't. Libraries were my Disneyland!
Load More Replies... Summer Gabriel 3 years ago (edited)
Omg yes. My grandmother worked for the cia. She retired to become a part time librarian. I grew up in the library during the summers. Got made fun of for being a reader till high-school where I joined a book club and we sat quietly around reading. Those were my peeps.
Julius Zuke 3 years ago
All parents want their children to get a good education. When the Enoch Pratt Free Library in Baltimore opens its doors for the morning, the sidewalk is crowded with parents and their toddlers, eager to attend the storytelling hour.. Screenshot...d273d5.png 
Debbie Burton 3 years ago
Many years ago as a single mum of 5 (Domestic Violence ruined my marriage) I used to take the kids to the library once a week as a treat.... they would read there for a while then choose 3 books or a video each. Was great!
#21
Brian Bennett 3 years ago
From an early age I liked to know how things worked! found an anatomy and Physiology book every elementary but the librarians saw me with these and would give me more advanced ones. And nursing here I come!
MJ 3 years ago
Awesome! Librarians are also great cooks: they feed hunger when they see it. 😉
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#22
Amanda Roddam 3 years ago
I hope you found a "magic carpet" Laura like I did, or grew up to meet a monster slayer. Or learned how to become one!
Brian Bennett 3 years ago
MY home did not have a monster. It was just full of emptiness! But I had arm loads of friends too!
MJ 3 years ago
Books with monsters usually have heroes that someway somehow overcome those monsters. Kids can momentarily escape their fear and probably feeling of helplessness by immersing themselves in the journey of the hero or heroine of a good book. And i’d like to think they walk away from libraries, librarians, and those great stories with a little encouragement and with their heads held a little higher.
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Elizabeth Molloy 3 years ago
My home had a monster in it too. I'm so happy we are still here to love our books!
LJ Harwood 3 years ago
I’m sorry you had a monster at home and you were not safe. I hope you are safe now/
#23
Adrienne Gallo-Girard 3 years ago
What a wonderful librarian. Sadly, most of us are trained on how to administer Narcan and keep a supply at the ready. Many of us have sharps containers in our offices. The pain of the opioid epidemic hurts our hearts. But better someone ODs in a place where we can help than in a desolate alley with no one around.
Brian Bennett 3 years ago
Yep our small town is rust over run with addicts even to store owners have Narcan available at all times! I don't know about our library but maybe it would be a good suggestion!
One recent story from New Zealand perfectly describes the people who work at and visit libraries.
As the country celebrated a national holiday, one of its largest city libraries was closed, with staff and security given the day off. However, an error with the automated door programming meant Tūranga's doors opened to the public as usual – and the unstaffed and unsecured library was happily used by the public, who browsed and checked out books for hours before someone realized what happened.
As well as its books, the library is also home to a wide variety of artworks and sculptures – but staff say nothing was stolen, and there were no serious incidents to report.
#24
Brian Bennett 3 years ago
Truer words were never spoken, a haven with caretakers, and travel agents, and a way to get a world education besides the formal education we usually get!
Load More Replies... Cold Contagious 3 years ago
I don't see them. Does that mean it worked? Did you do anything else besides your statement? Asking in complete seriousness.
Load More Replies... #25
Brian Bennett 3 years ago
And for some people reality sucks all there lives - but we who find libraries it seem to suck a lot less!
Load More Replies... #26
Brian Bennett 3 years ago
You knw people can have everything they want but nothing they need! Even in your awful crappy life books made you somebody!
#27
Sarah Elizabeth 3 years ago
Any chance Catherine is still alive? If so, and if it wouldn’t be too hard to track her down, you should do so and tell her. If she is still living, your gesture would mean the world to her.
Brian Bennett 3 years ago
I can remember all the names of the librarians who helped me! But they are all in another library I hope!
A library staff member at Christchurch city council said 380 people came into the building that Sunday morning.
"Our self-issue machines automatically started up and 147 books were issued by customers. No book-theft alarms went off, and at this stage, nothing has been reported missing, nor have we spotted any damage."
“We're grateful for the honesty of the people who used the library during this time," Bruce Rendall, the head of facilities, property, and planning at Christchurch city council,l added
He said there had been an investigation and the door system failing was “very rare”.
#28
Steve Fischer 3 years ago
A cell phone, usually provided by the government, is the only way the homeless can access services, while providing them a lifeline to society.
Cherries and Lace 3 years ago
It's also pretty much impossible to get a job without one.
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Just chucking around 3 years ago
You can get cell phones for $20/mo and the phone itself for free. And you can't get a job without a phone most of the time. There are still places to shower and get a great meal, but phone is a lifeline. I was homeless for a year living in a sleeping bag, but I still kept a phone and kept it charged. Even when I didn't have service paid I could still use it to call 911 when needed. Wasn't homeless for drugs or alcohol or mental stuff either, just got sick of where I lived and the people and the job and being homeless was the easiest way to start over somewhere away from everything. Left my apartment, furniture, everything as soon as an opportunity presented itself. Tried living with family in a different state but just needed to build myself up on my own. Don't be sad for people who have no home. Just be as helpful as you can be when you see them.
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#29
Brian Bennett 3 years ago
You just have to keep cool and if you go along with them they will be very little trouble!
#30
Sara Langhorst 3 years ago
I find this as such a sweet comment. Even though he is not with his former partner, he still had something good come out of the relationship. And with the sweetness is a little tartness....fist fighting. What a guy! Love it! And please don't take offence I find this comment making me smile. :)
#31
Brian Bennett 3 years ago
To read in safety and not per chance to dream you will dream of all things bright and beautiful if you wish!
#32
Brian Bennett 3 years ago
Yep right up there with my, Social Insurance, heath card (Canada) and Citizenship. Don't leave home without them
Cheryl Lohr 3 years ago (edited)
And now with so many libraries online you can use interlibrary loan and use your card at many libraries in your town or state.
Load More Replies... Juanita Austin 3 years ago
And the library can be a lifeline for someone trying to escape a domestic violence situation. I used their computers and a special user name (that didn’t appear on my home computer or cell phone) to communicate with a dear friend who aided me in my escape and provided me with a safe place to stay while I reconstructed my life.
#33
Mine Truly 3 years ago
I wonder if he would be fooled by someone hiding in a big box to puppet Elmo, or by a person in a big Elmo mascot suit? Some kids would be. I don't know how mild or severe his cognitive disabilities are, if he'd be on the level of a small child or not.
Anna Tribe 3 years ago
Elmo needs to be on cameo and all money made gets sent to charities of sesame streets choice
Brian Bennett 3 years ago
May be you could get one of the clubs in the communities to dress as Elmo and have him pop in to see your son -its worth a try!
#34
D Stone 3 years ago
One of the first things I thought of when Covid closed down the Central Library in Portland was the worry of what would happen to the homeless. They do such good work with helping the homeless, especially during the 8 months of the year when we have bad weather. Just the fact that there are multi floors with sitting places so that they can get out of the rain and cold is very helpful. Can't even imagine how many lives have been saved. I've had a library card for 50 years. It is one of my most prized possessions.
Priscilla Laybolt 3 years ago
When I was a child about five I joined the library, then when I was around 8 years of age I was quite ill and was advised by the doctor to my parents not to let me play outside with other children or partake of gym in school so I spent lots of time in the library reading books there and then using the lending to to take other books home to read. My mother always knew where to find me, in the library. I have always taught my children to appreciate book reading.I still love to read and listen to auduobooks.
Brian Bennett 3 years ago
I know I am a nurse! But a hospital can and is one of the noisiest places on earth. If they would make a space for people who are confused and all they need is to rest collect their thoughts relax this would do the people that need it a world of good but the libraries are doing this medicine could use a lot more education about people !
François Carré 3 years ago
BTW I also advocate to let people take naps in libraries. Sleep deprivation is one of the most diregarded health issues in this toxic work culture we live in. A few weeks ago I saw two grown-up girls (I think they were students working together on a school project) sleeping like babies on the large cushions we have in the corner of the comic books section. They took a solid 30 min nap there, and nobody bothered them.
#35
Brian Bennett 3 years ago
Have you ever seen an angry librarian, I have but they are the calmest angry person you will meet in your life. I was in the library and was close enough to here a man berating a cognitive disabled man, they poor fellow was so scared - I went to the librarian told her an accompanied her to the the older man still giving this poor fellow hell, the old man came in to read papers and the other fellow messed them up - She told him very quietly in no uncertain terms where to go and that was out but could come back when he learned to treat all human beings the way we have treated him. It was just so cool how she did this she was calm and cool never raised her voice but you knew if you did not obey her death may ensue!
Milady Blue 3 years ago
My elementary school librarian was a tiny little thing, almost like an elf. But I saw her reduce hulking, rebellious 6th grade boys to tears with simple disappointment if they were not treating the books properly. She never had to raise her voice or say anything bad. Disappointment could have been a lethal weapon for that lady, had she been so inclined.
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Robert Byrne 3 years ago
My idea of heaven is an unbelievably huge room with a trillion books that get replenished every so often.
#36
Steve Fischer 3 years ago
Todays billionaires spend their money buying super yachts and fly into space. They don't build libraries.
#38
#39
Eucritta 3 years ago
I used to dream of a place like that, literally, in amazing detail. Then I went to the (now in a new building) main library in the city, and there was the inclined hallway, the children's library under the street, the quiet private space with its hearth. It turned out my dad used to take me there often when I was very young, and the archives of my mind never forgot.
#41
M O'Connell 3 years ago
Thankfully this is the sort of situation that insurance was made for. I would think 'library flood' would be probably the simplest of jobs for an insurance adjuster, since everything is cataloged either by ISBN, or by legacy information and replacements can be priced so easily. I don't know how library networks operate in Australia, but where I am if a book you want is available at another library in the local network you can have it delivered to your library in as little as one day.
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Alexander Neil 3 years ago
That's horrible! But when I first saw the picture I feared it was a "banned" book event. Here in the US the world has gone nuts.
Paula McNeely 3 years ago
And the worse part? The government there won't acknowledge it or do anything about it. Terrible!
#43
Ann Dennis 3 years ago
Thank you for all you do, and please know that you're not alone in the fight.
#45
M O'Connell 3 years ago
I spent a few years working at the Leslie F. Malpass Library when I was in school and know it very well! Although I do not recall the AC there being particularly good...
#46
Lynn Morello 3 years ago
I had to prove that I could and would actually read through 5 books in 5 days, I finished them in 3 days, Answered all their questions on the 5 books I took out, I was allowed to take out 10 books at a time, I was 9 and a Prolific Book Reader.
ThatHuskyStorm 3 years ago (edited)
As a kid I would ignore playdates just to read! Lol Edit: I also have a book on my shelf that is a kids book. One I treasure a lot because not only is it signed by the author it’s also the book that taught me how to read. It’s called Hondo and Fabian.
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#53
Steve Fischer 3 years ago
This woman probably has more insight than everyone combined who works for Fox News.
#56
Cold Contagious 3 years ago
It's fantastic that they were so helpful and it's such a positive activity to busy oneself.
#57
Ann Dennis 3 years ago
That's an excellent library metaphor! Fellow Pandas, I issue a challenge: More metaphors, if you please!
#60
Cold Contagious 3 years ago
Another great analogy. They have such important meanings to so many different people.
#61
Librarian LK 3 years ago
Defunding libraries, supporting censorship, using libraries as pawns in culture wars, denying multiple points of view and free access to information. For example, I displayed picture books in the children's area that featured some African American characters. An ultra conservative board member saw it and complained it was '1619 for babies" and I was asked to remove the books. We are experiencing this kind of nonsense at my library from our director, our board, and the mayor and his administration. I'm keeping my location private for fear of retaliation. Having said that, it's not so much a Republican issue as it is the very vocal ultra right wing majority that have seized control of the party
Steve Fischer 3 years ago
That's because Republicans know that if you are well read you won't buy their bullsht conspiracy theories. People who possess critical thinking tools are almost never a Republican.
Who cares what I think, but... 3 years ago
Can you be more specific what this forced hate is? This just seems to be a "I hate Republicans" rant that could substitute "library" with any other topic.
#62
Steve Fischer 3 years ago
Libraries hold the key to journeys that will take your mind to places only dreamed of.
#66
#68
Ella Watson 3 years ago
I am guessing they meant windows. That is how I read it.
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#84
#86
Lynn Morello 3 years ago
Safe house signs used to decorate the safe havens of homes, businesses and institutions. You don't see these things any more.
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What do you think ?
Leo Domitrix 3 years ago
If I could find a library, I wanted to live in it. Still do. Just ive me a place to sleep in between reading books!
Mad Mar 3 years ago
My towns small library was my favorite place. An old granite gothic small building. Nooks and crannies I could go and read away from bullies. It expanded but kept that small part integrated into the new wing. When I drive past I only see the small part. I read all my favorite authors there. It was a safe zone to run to when bullies chased me. I would pop in an sit in the middle where I could be seen. The trouble makers would circle but the staff would push them out for being disruptive. I'd call my mom and she would get me if I saw they hadn't left the area. Fund these places. They made school work easier before computers and phones. Have a date there with someone. Pick books to talk about.
Betsy Novack 3 years ago
I was assigned to work in the library while with the school system. I was in the back doing Dewey and walked out to shelve a couple of books. Sitting at a table were three rascally boys who gears were always turning in their pointed little heads, intensely focused on a big book of flowers or something I'd never think would interest them. As I walked back to my workroom, I happened to get a glimpse of Ms April in the Playboy they had been reading behind the covers of the other book. So I snuck up behind them and whispered "Wait till you see Ms. May". I didn't bust 'em. But they knew they weren't ready for the big leagues yet.
C OnlyC 3 years ago
Our local library shut out the homeless during Covid and I sent back my card with a letter of explanation. I use a University library now instead. The public library stayed open but they closed the bathrooms and wouldn't let anyone past the lobby. At least a dozen homeless regulars were without toilets, drinking water, internet access, and climate control. Horrible. I'm embarrassed for my city!
Ann Dennis 3 years ago
Did the library want to deny access, or was it ordered to do so by the Powers That Be?
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Rae 3 years ago
The library is my ultimate happy place. I've been going to the same one since I was 6 years old and I have spent countless hours picking out books. It was the only activity my dad would do with me (he was always very busy) and after he passed away the librarians asked me where he was and why they didn't see him any longer
LynzCatastrophe 3 years ago
Because like everyone else, it was my safe space. My family was not abusive but they were a lot. They had expectations I couldn't meet, my parents fought and my sister constantly threw fits when she couldn't go out. I liked it quiet. I liked to be left alone. And people wonder why I prefer sensory free environments.
anthony moring 3 years ago
My mom was a librarian at an elementary school. Every day she ate lunch with the same kid who got bullied on the playground. She ran tons of fundraisers and every year made sure there was a book drive. Every kid got to go to the library and pick out a book to keep forever. It was really important to her to make sure everybody reads. To this day if I mention a book that sounds interesting it's in my mailbox 2 days later. Sadly after my mom ran the library funds for 10 years the PTA voted and took it over and the president stole thousands of dollars.
Betsy Novack 3 years ago
There's so much money being wasted in schools. I've heard many stories about the PTA, the fundraising and I swear, we could have had a swap meet with all the clothes kids left behind (with no name in them). We had a huge eucalyptus tree that fell over and people were taking pictures like crazy. I thought we should get a chain saw and cut it up for souvenirs and raise some moolah that way.
Load More Replies... Shoto Todoroki 3 years ago
I remember as a kid showing up to school in a wheelchair, after surgery. I was given the option to do classwork and just spend my day there. I had become friends with our librarian and I would help put books away. We'd talk and I was able to have lunch with her. I made a point to visit the library everyday once I was walking again.
Micah 3 years ago (edited)
My mom fostered a love for libraries and literacy in general in me at a young age. I love libraries and always felt comfortable in them. Years ago when I was briefly working a door-to-door sales job I hated, I skipped out on doing the work and just headed to a local library to spend my days.
Leo Domitrix 3 years ago
If I could find a library, I wanted to live in it. Still do. Just ive me a place to sleep in between reading books!
Mad Mar 3 years ago
My towns small library was my favorite place. An old granite gothic small building. Nooks and crannies I could go and read away from bullies. It expanded but kept that small part integrated into the new wing. When I drive past I only see the small part. I read all my favorite authors there. It was a safe zone to run to when bullies chased me. I would pop in an sit in the middle where I could be seen. The trouble makers would circle but the staff would push them out for being disruptive. I'd call my mom and she would get me if I saw they hadn't left the area. Fund these places. They made school work easier before computers and phones. Have a date there with someone. Pick books to talk about.
Betsy Novack 3 years ago
I was assigned to work in the library while with the school system. I was in the back doing Dewey and walked out to shelve a couple of books. Sitting at a table were three rascally boys who gears were always turning in their pointed little heads, intensely focused on a big book of flowers or something I'd never think would interest them. As I walked back to my workroom, I happened to get a glimpse of Ms April in the Playboy they had been reading behind the covers of the other book. So I snuck up behind them and whispered "Wait till you see Ms. May". I didn't bust 'em. But they knew they weren't ready for the big leagues yet.
C OnlyC 3 years ago
Our local library shut out the homeless during Covid and I sent back my card with a letter of explanation. I use a University library now instead. The public library stayed open but they closed the bathrooms and wouldn't let anyone past the lobby. At least a dozen homeless regulars were without toilets, drinking water, internet access, and climate control. Horrible. I'm embarrassed for my city!
Ann Dennis 3 years ago
Did the library want to deny access, or was it ordered to do so by the Powers That Be?
Load More Replies... Rae 3 years ago
The library is my ultimate happy place. I've been going to the same one since I was 6 years old and I have spent countless hours picking out books. It was the only activity my dad would do with me (he was always very busy) and after he passed away the librarians asked me where he was and why they didn't see him any longer
LynzCatastrophe 3 years ago
Because like everyone else, it was my safe space. My family was not abusive but they were a lot. They had expectations I couldn't meet, my parents fought and my sister constantly threw fits when she couldn't go out. I liked it quiet. I liked to be left alone. And people wonder why I prefer sensory free environments.
anthony moring 3 years ago
My mom was a librarian at an elementary school. Every day she ate lunch with the same kid who got bullied on the playground. She ran tons of fundraisers and every year made sure there was a book drive. Every kid got to go to the library and pick out a book to keep forever. It was really important to her to make sure everybody reads. To this day if I mention a book that sounds interesting it's in my mailbox 2 days later. Sadly after my mom ran the library funds for 10 years the PTA voted and took it over and the president stole thousands of dollars.
Betsy Novack 3 years ago
There's so much money being wasted in schools. I've heard many stories about the PTA, the fundraising and I swear, we could have had a swap meet with all the clothes kids left behind (with no name in them). We had a huge eucalyptus tree that fell over and people were taking pictures like crazy. I thought we should get a chain saw and cut it up for souvenirs and raise some moolah that way.
Load More Replies... Shoto Todoroki 3 years ago
I remember as a kid showing up to school in a wheelchair, after surgery. I was given the option to do classwork and just spend my day there. I had become friends with our librarian and I would help put books away. We'd talk and I was able to have lunch with her. I made a point to visit the library everyday once I was walking again.
Micah 3 years ago (edited)
My mom fostered a love for libraries and literacy in general in me at a young age. I love libraries and always felt comfortable in them. Years ago when I was briefly working a door-to-door sales job I hated, I skipped out on doing the work and just headed to a local library to spend my days.
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