I am one of those people who have the good fortune to live in a world that is true to my purpose. When I’m not writing stories, I am a school librarian.
I’ll let that sink in.
My day revolves around sharing the love of reading.
And I mean the love of reading.
I remember the first time I asserted this.
The first time kids met me, they challenged me. Yes, challenged. One approached me with a well-known title and said, “I’ve read this. I challenge you to find a book I like.”
The poor child didn’t realize she had given away her hand. She already loved reading. So, I placed another well-written story in her hands. She liked it.
We talk books all the time.
Another time, a student taunted me. “I don’t like this book.”
I remember saying, “Then put the thing down and get one you will like.”
His reply was along the lines of– what is this advice you’ve given me?
Now he’s a teenager, and he stops in frequently to have informal book talks with me.
I said, “My job isn’t to make you like every book. It’s to show you how to find what you like.”
I also help kids with algebra, biology, History, and research projects. Sometimes, they come to the library because they need a quiet place, and they know I’ll chase away anyone who tries to disturb their peace.
And I’ll share a quirk. I love pressing my finger to my lip and saying, “Shhhhh,” breaking into a big smile and following up with, “I went to college to be able to do that.”
The kids roll their eyes, I giggle, and then they settle down.
These are just a few things I love about being a school librarian.
This was supposed to be a post about Librarian Appreciation Day. It turned into what I appreciate about being a librarian.
So, in true librarian fashion, I researched some fun quotes about appreciation for the library.
Now it’s your turn. Share a story or a fond librarian memory in the comments. Or if you have time, stop by the library and find a great book. It’ll make the librarian’s day.