The kids are back at school, winter is on its way and the days are getting shorter.
In this librarian's world this means the beginning of stock piling of books, dragging out the winter wardrobe, putting the extra blankets on the beds and creating hearty soups.
All of those things, as diverse
as they are, all make the colder months of winter a little bit more comfortable and tolerable. Soups and books offer just a little bit more, as they provide nourishment for the mind, body and soul.
I thought that my idea of books providing nourishment in my life was my own quiet, quirky opinion. I was wrong. A few months ago, over a coffee, I was talking to a woman whom I had come to know quite well through the library, a fellow book lover.
She had recently been diagnosed with a terminal illness. She had needed to tell me what joy the library, our book club and reading had given her through the past few years.
Reading books had nourished her mind and soul for a lot of her life, particularly in the last few years. She then asked me to recommend more books to see her through the coming weeks.
A pile of books was given and hugs were exchanged and then she thanked me for reigniting her passion in reading and for challenging her to read things she never would have read of her own choosing, and then she left.
I was floored. For me no thanks is needed, as I, and many of us within the library sector are doing not only our jobs but are also passionate about it. How privileged are we that we get to live, work and thrive in a job that lets us encourage others to read, to learn and engage with our community.
I get thanks every day by talking about books, sharing book recommendations and our stories with my customers and community.
My friend passed away a few weeks ago. Thank you my friend, for recognising the power of libraries, of reading and for reminding me that books do indeed nourish my life.
Cultivate some kindness in your community and do things that nourish your soul.
For more information please feel free to contact me kelly@whanganuilibrary.com or via my Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/inkedlibrarian/ or follow me on twitter @inkedbibliofilo
