I have a question? Do you need help building a garden fence? Do you wonder about the Universe? While browsing the Internet is fun, it can lead to multiple detours and you can get lost in the magic of a million sites and resources. Your public library, on the other hand, offers personalized attention and guidance as you browse through the books, magazines, articles, and even venture into the Internet services provided there with the focused talents of your library staff.

Librarians possess a vast knowledge of reading materials of every type imaginable. Ask the librarians a question and I guarantee you’ll find an answer. If one doesn’t show up instantly, they’ll know exactly where to look. Within minutes (and sometimes seconds) you’ll be on your way to the outer reaches of knowledge and brilliance. Librarians are often very friendly and helpful, acknowledging that they are public employees and that you represent the public. They know a lot of quick and easy answers, but they also love a challenge. If your book is not immediately available, they will search the interlibrary exchange or order the book and materials that will be in their hands within days.

Libraries offer programs including book clubs for young children, teens, and adults. They often have public interest film screenings, art exhibits, and special performances. Local libraries are great when it comes to honoring local, county, or state artists and authors. You can attend a book signing in the morning, an art performance in the afternoon, and a special lecture in the evening. And if you need to host a public meeting or conference, a wonderful resource is the hallowed halls and halls of the library. Not only are these spaces spacious and welcoming, but libraries often provide advertising and refreshments to attract large numbers of participants. More being in a library simply fills the attendees with wisdom.

School libraries are also a great resource for students. Although many secondary libraries now focus on computer and Internet resources, there are also loads of real, true, bound books. For book lovers and those working to create family book lovers, there are few things more precious than the touch of fine pages inside a beautifully engraved book cover. I love my iBooks and Kindles for their speedy convenience, but when I really love a book, I have to have the hardcover version so I can enjoy the glorious words and messages inside and the tactile magnificence of fine paper.

Elementary libraries are splendid with their eye-catching displays of picture books that appeal to young readers. These librarians know how to encourage reading and draw readers into the wonder of each turning page. They know how to spark interest and encourage young people to regard books as a precious commodity. Reading programs in school and public libraries teach children the emotion contained in the pages and transform many into avid readers for life.

Finally, most of the librarians I deal with are funny and have a great sense of humor. They love to laugh and joke around; they love to guide and explain. They are rich in ideas and information. The only time they lose that humorous tone is if you mess with “their Library”. Misplacing a book from its assigned place in a stack, leaving fringes of paper under a table, sneaking a book out without taking it out can push the librarian over the edge. The love and belief in the power of books requires that every Librarian adventurer acquire this same love and belief, including accuracy and honesty.

Libraries are safe sanctuaries that provide warmth and a sense of security. They are sinister in the wonders they contain and in the way they can solve mysteries as they create curiosity and surprises. One of the most magical gifts you can give a child is a library card followed by weekly visits. It is an incomparable educational opportunity.