How NOT to treat library books......

Summer is very rough on library books in my neck of the woods.  Why?  I think because people are traveling, enjoying the outdoors and library books go along for the ride.   Sadly, library books don't fare well in certain situations.  While you may think you might know how to treat a library book, here are a few things one should NOT do with a library book...…

1. While taking your library book camping with you sounds like a great idea, books do not fare well in hot, humid, moist conditions.  It can cause the books to warp.  Books will often soak up any liquid or moisture, even that from the air.   This is a major reason that the library is air conditioned during the summer (other than librarian's like a cool place to hang out too)!  When you add moisture to a book, it can easily pick up mildew and mold spores- eww!

2. What about the beach?  Again- water is a big issue but sand also gets everywhere!  In the past month, I have had to have several hard cover books recovered at the library due to sand.  Sand and books do not mix either.

3. What if the book is left outdoors overnight?  Please see above about moist air.  Add in any dew and you have one unhappy book.

As librarian's, we want you to enjoy the library's books but think of this....how would you feel if the nice book you are holding in your hands was warped, water damaged, dirty, gritty, sandy, musty smelling and a mess?  You probably wouldn't think very highly of the library and you probably wouldn't want to continue borrowing library material.

So please, think before you take your library book places.  One great idea- see if your library has a book sale or free shelf!  Pick up summer reads there and then you won't have to worry about fines and fees at the library.

Are libraries still necessary/needed?

This hands down is the question that I am asked the most from people but especially those who haven't been in a library in several years.

Yes- libraries are still relevant.  Many people still use the library to check out books to read.  People still come to the library to seek information on many different subjects.  Some come in to read the local daily newspaper.   My libraries allow patrons to borrow magazines so we see many of them cross the circulation desk.  Kids come in seeking information for school reports.

Did you know that many libraries also have popular dvd's that patrons can borrow?  Most libraries have free wifi access?  How about that many libraries have fax machines and copiers available for patron use?  Forget to buy ink for your printer?  Libraries have them.

Libraries have computers for use, areas to study or sit and read.  Some have meeting or conference rooms to use to study, meet with friends or to do some work from home in a quiet location.

Libraries have programs geared towards all ages.  Story time, book clubs, some have classes to learn to knit or sew, some have professionals come in to talk about wills or how to live frugally.  Some have authors come in and talk about how to write or just to talk about their books.  Some have lego clubs, coding clubs, STEM clubs and lots of other opportunities.

My libraries are community gathering places at times- some days friends meet up unexpectedly and spend time catching up.  Sometimes they meet new friends while spending some time wandering the stacks.

While it may feel as though libraries aren't relevant in this internet driven world, they often are vital to many.

Welcome to my world as a librarian and library director

Five years ago my library career began.  Little did I realize how much my life would change due to a part time job in a library because I loved books!   I am often asked many questions about my job as a library director and librarian.  I thought it would be interesting to write about all of the challenges and rewards.

Over the next several weeks, my posts will be about the questions that I am asked most often.  If anyone has a question, please leave a comment and I will be happy to answer it if I can.

Thank you for visiting!