Let me begin by saying that I've always thought that it would be wonderful to work at a library, particularly in the children's department. Imagine getting paid to handle books, books and more books...all day long! I've entertained the thought many times of working at a library but just today came to the conclusion that I may not be entirely qualified...let me explain. My fear is that I am perhaps...too friendly to work at the public library. Is this possible? Yes, I think it is.
There were several libraries in Kansas we would frequent and since moving back to Florida we've visited four different ones in our area. Sadly, they all seem to have something in common. It begins with the initial approach to the front desk to inquire about obtaining a library card. More times than not, I feel as though I am met with a look that says, "Yes? What sort of trouble are you here to cause for me today?" Immediately after I calmly and politely say we'd like to get library cards... the interrogation begins. I try to patiently answer all of their questions which I somehow feel unqualified to be answering even though they are basics like name, address, phone number...(maiden name, blood type, credit rating...) Just when I think I've "passed", they begin "Phase two". Proof of address, drivers license, a pint of blood... At this point, I'm getting aggravated and thinking it might be easier to apply for a position with the Secret Service than it is to check out some picture books! BUT, my children are standing there so I try to remain calm. As we near the end of the obtaining a library card process, I begin to feel hopeful and yet am leery because still no one has smiled, or welcomed us, or been remotely happy that we want to read and learn at the library. I find my arm protectively going around the shoulder of Lily...after all, she is our first-born and perhaps there is a "Phase four"! :) At last, we are given a card and told we can check out three items...because we're on probation. After we have shown that we will be responsible, we can check out more. !!
I could honestly fill a week or two with stories about the library and the different experiences we've had, most of which you couldn't make up if you tried! BUT in spite of all the frustration... I would be a liar if I didn't tell you that I love the library! It is a wonderland of sorts to me, and the girls, I believe, would agree. We have started spending Mondays at a library near to the store where Tim works. We pack a lunch in the cooler and take a break from schoolwork to eat in the van and then head back in for another hour or so. It's a nice change of pace and it never seems to get old...there's always something new at the library. Unfortunately, I continue to run into more unfriendly librarians than friendly, but have made it a personal mission to "break through" the wall of seriousness and bring a little sunshine in...after all, they're working my dream job!
