The Ferguson library was my favorite place to go when I was little. I can’t figure out what made it so welcome to me. I think, mostly, it was the abundance of books. I’ve visited different libraries but none seemed so inviting… from the open floor plan to the sectioned children’s library to the rug in the front hallway that I swear twisted my feet as I walked on it. The amount of books I borrowed was remarkable. Their audio/video selection was impressive. I love libraries a great deal, and I can always find something I like about them, but this one was special. I make it a point to visit now and then, to shop at the used bookshop and just to make sure it’s still standing.
It’s under renovation nowadays and nothing looks the same as it did 20+ years ago, but I’m looking forward to seeing the changes. I have even signed up to volunteer at the bookstore there on weekends, so that I can give back a little to the community that was able to nurture my reading. Proceeds from this bookstore go towards funding the library and other literacy programs. I am a strong believer in the difference reading can make in one’s life… and I believe that the right resources should be available to everyone. I think a lot of people take their ability to read for granted. I’ve been lucky that literacy programs have been available in my area and that I had programs like Reading is Fundamental growing up that would hand out books to the children of the city of Stamford. I’ve been lucky to have parents that included reading in my daily life. Not everyone is so privileged.
I’ve gone for one training session, and I already know that it is something I am going to enjoy doing. Making sure people get books.