Withered Library Card

"Who doesn't love a library?  It is a place you can go

in any town and discover the world."

Pat MacEnulty

Some say that the three most important documents are a birth certificate, passport, and library card.  I have had a library card since the early days of elementary school.  Even though my gypsy blood has  required a birth certificate and passport, I have mostly treasured my library card.

The library has been a safe place, demanding focus on authors, and selecting books one has not yet read. Contrary to some beliefs, the library is an exciting place one anticipates visiting.  There is no such thing as dashing in or out, as serious lengths of time are a chosen gift.

Now, libraries are closed and my library card has withered. The library habit has finally been broken, but my love for books remains.  I want to touch the hardback cover, feel the paper as I turn the pages, and use my aging bookmarks.  The good news, of course, is no one has taken my comfy chair and quilt nor have they removed the fireplace! It is a good thing I tend to be a hermit.