Library Staff Directory
Posted Aug 28, 2018
Certain places have the power to transport us—not just physically, but spiritually and emotionally. For me these places are cinemas, airports, and always libraries—gateways to journey that spark a mental hum. The prospect of traveling in time, both real and imagined, lures me back whenever possible.
Here on the East Side of Milwaukee and in Shorewood, we live among buildings and landmarks that are everyday reminders of the many generations before us. As a newcomer to the Midwest, I am impressed by the continuity of time and respect these buildings represent. This sense of permanence gives me hope that future generations will continue to honor those before and ahead of us. We are lucky to live among such examples of the power of place.
Nearly three centuries ago, Benjamin Franklin and his friends understood the power of place when they established America’s first lending library in 1731. Because no one alone could afford to assemble enough books, our practical ancestors pooled their resources to share them in a single place. I think Mr. Franklin would be proud to know our local temple of learning is alive and well.
Libraries survive because they are a place to thrive, especially in the fall when school resumes and formal learning begins anew.
This September, fill your days and, if you have them, your children’s days with an endless supply of beautiful books and words. Help young readers graduate from picture books to easy readers. Our light-filled library is a safe place to complete homework, research ideas, and study with friends. Friendly and knowledgeable librarians help everyone.
The relationships we have as a community, with where we live, where we choose to be, make a difference. Bring your energy, curiosity and presence to our living hub of ideas. Together we give our library its power of place.
- Submitted by Candace Shoemaker
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