One Town, One Library

I spent Saturday afternoon at the Library. I checked out a book, paid my fine from the last time I forgot to return a book, perused all the flyers for the upcoming town events, bought a ticket to a wine tasting, talked to some friends and neighbors, watched a dance performance, and ate some Chinese food. Just another small town day, right?

But all of this in one spot! It's too good to be true I think. I know I have mentioned the library in previous columns, but I think I have been pretty good about not turning into a total book nerd each week. We have discussed lots of art forms and media, but it should come as no surprise that this writer loves books. Honestly, what I love is good storytelling and so often that comes wrapped up in a good book. I love to read, and I feel depressed and embarrassed when I'm not reading something great.

But I'll stop right there and save my poetic musings on how much I love great literature and trashy adventure novels in equal measure. Because it's February in Sierra Madre and for me that means it is all about the – not just the books but everything they have to offer and all the ways this institution makes our town a better place for everyone including artists and art lovers.

February is when Sierra Madre celebrates – a nationwide program that aims to bring a community together in a common experience and promote the joy of reading and lifelong learning. That's why there were lion dancers, and arts and crafts for kids, and a Panda Inn buffet out in front of the building yesterday. This year's selection is "On Gold Mountain" by acclaimed local author Lisa See. It tells the stories of generations of her Chinese-American family, their journeys from China over 100 years ago, and the life they built here in Southern California.

We will be celebrating this book all month long with different all over town including an afternoon with Ms. See next weekend at the Recreation Center and memoir writing workshop at the Library on February 24. One Book events aren't just about books, they are about immersing yourself in all aspects of a story – the art, the history, the music, the culture, the language, the comedy and the sadness – and sharing your experience.

Because libraries today are and should continue to be a great public commons, a gathering spot for anyone seeking knowledge or community interaction. Far from the model of centuries ago when they were reserved for the elite who could afford to pay to learn. Now we believe that knowledge should be free to anyone who seeks it.

And to ensure that it continues to grow and thrive, those of us who can contribute any time and resources we have. And it's not a burden; it's a joy! I have so much fun at the hosted by the Friends of the Library each year. Just bought my ticket for this year's event on February 18. I gather with friends and enjoy everything I love – the art of good conversation and the culinary arts in good food and wine.

Recently, Library Director Toni Buckner reported to the City Council that statistics for Library usage are up across the board. And why wouldn't they be? Yesterday was a special event but it's not too far off the norm for this little institution with the mighty heart. The music and movie collections are growing. They have great new options for audio books. They've added more and more research databases that are available to any patron with a home computer. Lifelong learning classes, poetry slams, new play areas for children, guest authors, walls full of local art, an impressive archive of local history, and special events every month.

And of course there are always books. It might not be the biggest collection around, but it's all there for me and you anytime we want. I wander and breathe deep and find an old classic I've never read or a new murder mystery with a catchy title. And they ask nothing in return for sharing this knowledge and experience with us. Just our respect for the institution of a truly public library and our enjoyment of all they have to offer.