by Annette DeFuso
Several of our patrons have been sharing their “library stories” on our website about why they love libraries and what libraries mean to them, so I thought I would share my story, too.
One of my earliest memories from elementary school is of visiting the school’s library and asking the librarian to help me choose a storybook. There were so many that I couldn’t pick just one. I wanted to take home all of them, which, of course, was not allowed. Even from an early age, I loved reading and wanted to live in the land of books. One of my teachers would always ask each child what book they had chosen from the library and what they liked about it. My hometown didn’t have a public library back then, but fortunately, our school libraries filled in the gap, and everyone encouraged us to read. When I was a little older, my parents would drive us to the public library in the nearest town to check out books. It was a magical place for readers like me.
I worked in my college library while I was a student and loved to browse the stacks as I reshelved books. The librarians there were friendly and kind and taught me how libraries work behind the scenes, from filing catalog cards (remember those?) to staffing the circulation desk. They encouraged me to go further with my education and attend graduate school for library science. I’ve been fortunate to work in libraries ever since, and I never imagined back in elementary school that I would get to spend every day in the land of books.
Libraries continue to be a source of lifelong learning and discovery for me, both as a librarian and as a patron. Our six branches provide books and other materials in person and online for easy access at home or while traveling this summer. We continue to offer programs, activities, and events for all ages and interests. Check out your nearest library and discover stories or share your own. Learning never stops when you use your library card.
Annette DeFuso is Technical Services Director for the Adams County Library System.