At least once or twice a week I visit Carnegie Main Library in Oakland. I just adore this library. I have always found comfort studying with the books of the world. Books are not judgmental but filled with the hope of the future and knowledge not yet held onto. The people there are simply beautiful people. I have called so many times due to missing books, overdue books or needing to order books, and every single time they respond with kindness and grace. Embarrassingly, I am at the library so often that most people behind the desk know me by name or at least, they recognize my face. But hey, at the end of my life if I am famous only at the Main Library, that is all I need. I consider my life a major success. 

Today in particular, it was freezing. I had to drop off something in Oakland for a colleague and then I raced inside the library to feel my fingers and my toes again. Generally, I go to the same man during check-out. He always jokes with me when I have less than 17 books for pickup. In his eyes (and mine) this is a light load. Today I found myself going to an older woman. She was just so sweet. She looked at my books and inquired about my job, what grade I teach and why I chose the books I did. After mentioning the fact that I am a third grade teacher she responded with the most delightful voice: "Oh my goodness. I had the most delightful third grade teacher back in the day. Her name was Mrs. Botkins. She just used to be the best. In fact, out of all the teachers I remember her the most. And Mrs. Botkins used to pick a read-aloud and a spot and a time in the classroom to read aloud to us every day. I always hoped it would be raining for recess so that we would have more time to listen to more than just one chapter of the book. She's one of the reasons why I love books." And then she began to talk about how her sons do not really have much time to read because one is in computer science and the other is an engineer and the third is a physical therapist. 

Isn't it amazing how much information can be gained from checking out just a few books at the local library? I always find it extra inspiring when someone is willing to share with you their story. In my mind, this nice librarian was saying something along the lines of I am going to trust you with my story in the hopes that you will go and share this story with someone else. Lucky for me, I get to share it with all of you. You gain much wisdom from the story of another.