The Library of Today

Rathmines Library

One of my first blog posts was about the public library system and how the library has always been part of my life. The only thing which sometimes irritated me was renewing a book which usually happened just when the time was right, or I was laid up. 

This morning I got a reminder that my book would be shortly overdue.  I was trying to work out when I could get down to the library when I read my text message again.  There was a link to a website so I could renew online.

Isn't it amazing how things have changed and changed so fast?  I can now go online to search for a book and that book, if it is available, can be sent to my local library for collection.  I have now learned I can renew a book online. 

Then this book can be returned to my nearest library.  So, if I was for example on holiday in Galway and finished reading the book, I can return it to one of the libraries in Galway.  How amazing is that?   Such a difference from queueing outside a library to sitting at my craft table, logging in, locating a book, and having it delivered to my local library.

Then when collecting it having a chat with a librarian, browsing the shelves just on the off chance there is another book that catches my eye and still enjoying the adventure of my local library.

I can't forget the option of reading online. This is becoming a great resource for those who for one reason or another cannot access the physical book.  However, the mental image of a library will always be my very first public library and its beautiful stained-glass window with the light shining through.  It added to the excitement of the endless possibilities for escape.