How I discovered my local library

Ok, yes, I realize this seems like no big feat. But for someone previously addicted to Borders, or Barnes and Noble, or whatever large bookstore happened to be in the vicinity, I believe accolades are in order. (I can waste a lot of time in the magazine section). I had noticed that there was one located a block away from me wedged between a strip club and a creepy motel, so one day with nothing else to do, I ventured out to see what this place was all about.

When I entered there was a sign that said to "form a line here", so I patiently waited, thinking it was strange how there was a queue for the library, and my have things changed since I was 8, but after a few minutes standing by myself in "line", I realized that the sign was referring to the computer area. Feeling rather foolish, I made my way further in. And dear readers (hi mother) what I did next, should probably never be admitted in polite company; I beelined for the young adult section. Because for me there is nothing like reading about Alanna the Lioness to brighten an otherwise crappy week.

I made my way out of the cheerful, art festooned area, feeling like a criminal, slouched over and avoiding eye contact, "It was for my niece", I would say if stopped. I quickly scooped up two Hemingway books to balance out my naughty acquisition, and proceeded to the checkout counter. Now, here is where I will apprise you that in order to get a library card you must have an ID with your current address. If you fill out the form with your current address and it does not match the address on your drivers license, you will be DENIED a library card. And of course, because this is me we are talking about, this is exactly what happened. So after I begged, pleaded, and pouted, I gave up, with a promise from the librarian to hold my books till the end of the day while I went home to find a bill with my name and current address on it.

Of course when I went back, my books were gone, but not yet put back on the shelves and so I had to find all of my books on the various library carts, and since there was a separate cart for young adult books I did get a chance to say "it's for my niece". I am happy to report, it has been smooth sailing ever since, although I do already owe about 70 cents in late fees. Still, it's cheaper than a new book, and they smell divine!

-nora