Everyday Life Uncluttered: Why I Enjoy Volunteering at My Library

I would like to say I volunteer at my local public library for a bunch of noble reasons.

But I would be lying.

I live in a village of 1,200 people, and our library doesn’t buzz. It’s quaint but needs updates. I can usually count on one hand the number of patrons who walk through the door during the three hours the library is open…on a Saturday.

So, why do I do it?

I like being surrounded by books.I’m a book junkie and whenever I come in, I like to see what new books have arrived. Our library doesn’t have a personal development section, so my focus is to peruse the new fiction titles and young adult books.

It’s free, and who doesn’t like the idea of reading a new title and not paying for it? Pick me!

The quiet solitude of music.I often play calm piano music on my laptop when I volunteer. It sets the mood for a warm, welcoming environment. I don’t know if patrons notice it when they come in, but that’s okay. It beats the overwhelming silence.

I can explore writing ideas.When I’m out of my regular writing environment at home, I gain new perspective. That’s what happens when I’m at the library. Fresh writing ideas pop into my mind.

I recently read Andrew Merle’s article, Why Grit Isn’t Enough. He invites the reader to explore ideas in unexpected places. Take time out to do something different or new.

This is what happens when I’m at the library. I get to explore. I get to ponder. I start clicking away on the keyboard to see what happens.

And this morning this piece is what happened.

**This article first appeared in the publication, Hopes and Dreams for Our Future on Medium.com.

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