I love reading books, but I haven’t spent time in a library for several years until his summer. I sold my novel, “Catalyntje Trico: A Life in New Amsterdam,” at a Community Market organized by my local library, and with this connection, I began revisiting the library. 

I admit, I was absolutely amazed at what I saw upon my return. Even before I got through the inner entrance, there was a bowl of apples from someone’s tree, a simple wooden box with packages of free seeds, all in alphabetical order. Some in commercial packages, others in tiny envelopes with the names of each seed handwritten on the front. There was a cup of crayons beside a stack of coloring pages on a small table. A display of pamphlets on where to get free help on everything from financial planning to mental health. There was also a bookcase filled with discarded books, puzzles, and DVDs available for the taking. I was overwhelmed by the entryway alone. 

Once I got inside the library, it was much different from what I remembered. There were the usual stacks and stacks of books, which is what I had expected. There was also the section with the magazines, puzzles, and DVDs. But there were new shelves filled with games to be checked out, along with “things” you could borrow. Things like small telescopes, a ukulele, a few tools, and some craft items. I also saw a sign at the front desk to borrow free passes for the natural history museum and a forest pass. 

I recently read a post by Matt Lillywhite on Substack about libraries. He wrote: A mother came to the library carrying her toddler and a grocery bag. She asked if story time cost anything. The librarian shook her head, “Everything here is free.” They sat on the rug while volunteers read about kindness and courage. When it ended, the mother said, “It’s the only place I can bring him that doesn’t ask for money.” Many politicians call libraries wasteful spending. Parents call it hope.

With cuts in SNAP benefits across the country, many families are crushed with the idea of going hungry. I saw a posting last week that our local library is collecting shelf-stable food for anyone who needs it. I was touched.

This is the beauty of libraries; they are the ultimate Third Space. Your First Space is your home, your Second Space is your place of employment. A Third Space is a social environment that is neutral, accessible, informal, and welcoming. Libraries are unimaginably wonderful places where you can learn, feel safe, and be included. Support your local library anyway you can.