I can still remember when I received my first library card as child. In my eyes it was like a credit card. I had my very own card on which I got to sign my name.
A card that would unlock endless possibilities of books whenever I wanted!
Growing up, I lived really close to the Norwood Branch Library, and my mom would take my brother and me there each week. It was like a treat for me, sitting in the nook near the window reading books, and skimming through my stack.
The summer reading program was my favorite, not for the rewards, but for the thrill of seeing just how many books I could read. I would fill a grocery bag full of books — I could devour a book in fewer than two days. Cracking a book open was like the refreshing feeling of cracking open a Dr. Pepper on a hot summer’s day. Reading was, and still is, like an adventure. You get to open up a book and no matter where you are, you are transported to an entirely different place.
Lost in the words, left with nothing but your imagination.
If you are lucky, the characters and words stick with you leaving you gasping until the very last page. I am the type that has to read a book before seeing the movie because the book is almost always better than the movie. I am the type that could get lost in a library or bookstore for hours. When I lived closer to Barnes and Noble, I would make a run for it as soon as my husband got off from work. I could get a coffee from Starbucks, and just get lost in the books.
Now that technology is constantly progressing and growing, you can do so much more than hold books while at the library. Growing up I’d ask the librarian to look up a book and put it on hold for me. But things are so much easier now. Which reminds me, are you using the Knox County Public Library catalog to its fullest potential? If not, let me blow your mind for a second. Did you know that you can search through the virtual catalog for any book? If any of the local libraries have it, you can put it on hold and even choose your library pickup location! It usually takes two business days to be delivered from one library to the next and you receive an email when it is ready to be picked up.
If all the copies of the book you want are checked out, you can have the book put on hold, and then access your library account to see your queue number. Pretty cool, right? I am like a child and get so antsy while I wait, so I always like to know where I stand. One time I was 102/102 in line, and I just couldn’t handle it! But seriously, it’s such an amazing feature and so nice that it is offered.
My kids are doing the summer reading program this year and a lot has changed. You can register your kids online at knoxlib.beanstack.org or via the mobile app, and track their reading hours, titles, etc.! There is also the Passport Program where children and teens can log up to five adventures or library programs for five hours of reading. They have partnered with over 15 local sites, and in some cases admission fees may apply. It’s such a fun concept!
Here are some books which I’ve enjoyed:
You by Caroline Kepnes (a thrilling Netflix 2018 series)
The Secrets She Keeps by Michelle Robotham (really dark)
The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena (the biggest plot twist ever, I highly recommend)
These are two books I have on hold and hope to read soon:
Do you have any books to add to the list? Leave a comment below, I just might put it on hold next!
Hey sweet girl…I have on HD at the library “Girl, Wash your face” I am looking forward to reading it. Also I have heard “Where the crawdads sing” is another good one.
Thank you Marie I’ve heard so many good things about “Where the Crawdads Sing.” I’m going to add it to my list!
This is a really old series so you may not be able to find it at the library, I found it at McKay’s . It’s the James Herriot series of books about his time as a veterinarian in the Yorkshire Dales back in the 40’s and 50’s. He’s a wonderful storyteller, you feel like you’re standing right there with him. It’s funny and heartwarming. I highly recommend for any book lover!
How neat I’m going to see if I can find the series on Amazon! Thank you so much I love books that make me feel like I’m right there with them.
Hey Momma, I am a huge book lover as well. I can relate to everything you said so much. I also agree with reading the book before seeing the movie version.(and I agree the book is always better) Luckily, my 2 year old son also has a love for books. (Yay!) I loved the Kinsey Millhone Series by Sue Grafton. (First book is “A is For Alibi) unfortunately, she passed away before she got to finish writing the last book in the series so it ends with Y. I’ve also enjoyed the Jack Reacher series by Lee Child. I also enjoy the authors Jennifer Weiner, Jodi Picoult, Mary Alice Monroe, Sarah Addison Allen, Alice Hoffman just to name a few, lol. Have you ever heard of the app. Libby? You link your library card/Acct. And can check out any and all e-books etc. that the library has to offer. You can read through Libby or even use your Kindle. I’ve always preferred actual books over e-books but I absolutely love this app! Thanks for sharing about your love for books!