I can still remember the feeling of being a little girl walking into the public library in Frederick, Maryland, during the summer. The building felt enormous to me, with rows upon rows of shelves that stretched so far beyond my line of sight. I remember the scent of the library too, which was not musty, not floral, but something warm and familiar, like stories waiting to be opened. It’s a sensory memory that stuck with me, all these years later.
Every week, I participated in the summer reading program. I loved the challenge, but even more, I loved the books. I’d check out a big stack and return the next week ready for more. Reading has always been one of my greatest joys and an invitation to disconnect from time and place and immerse myself in someone else’s world.
That joy hasn’t faded. I still read as much as I can and love being part of a book club where we share perspectives and dive deeper into stories together. But I’ve also discovered something new—audiobooks. For the longest time, I thought reading meant holding a physical book in my hands. I hadn’t considered listening to books as “real” reading. But now, I love the freedom audiobooks give me. I can be outside mowing the lawn or tackling chores around the house, and still be completely immersed in a story. It’s a different kind of connection, but just as powerful. In fact, I recently found myself crying while vacuuming because of a particularly emotional moment in The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah. My husband rushed in to check on me, only to learn I was just deep in a story.
This is what stories do. They move us. And often, our connection to stories starts with the library.
That’s why we’re inviting you to share your library story.
The Adams County Library System has launched a new feature on our website called My Library Story. It’s a space where you can share how the library has touched your life- whether it’s a childhood memory, a recent discovery, a connection you made, or simply the joy of reading something unforgettable. Your story can be short or long, light-hearted or moving. The point is: we want to hear it.
Over the years, I’ve heard so many library stories. Some are about finding a safe space, some about educational support, some about starting a new chapter in life both literally and figuratively. One thing I hear again and again is this: “When I moved to the area, the first thing I did was sign up for a library card.”
Libraries aren’t irrelevant. They aren’t fading. Especially not here in Adams County. Our libraries are alive with people, stories, and community. My Library Story is a way to celebrate that and to remind us what we share.
So, what’s your story? Reconnect with that feeling, and share it with us here.
We believe everyone has a library story. We can’t wait to hear yours.
Erica Duffy is Development Director for the Adams County Library System.
development@adamslibrary.org