Dream Library for Communities in Crisis

For me, reading has been an escape when I was overwhelmed, a friend when I was lonely, a sanctuary when life had ground me down, a teacher when I needed to know something new, and a real constant in my life when everything else was in chaos. I can't really imagine what life would be like without something to read! I grew up in a home chock-full of good books and have learned so much about the world because I can read stories about other cultures and customs.

In my opinion, much of the trouble in the world comes down to ignorance. The playing field is never level when some players have knowledge that others don't, which causes frustration & anger. If every single person could read, we could all learn what we need to know to feel we have a fair chance. We can write letters to express gratitude or outrage or affection. We can discuss the new ideas reading opens up to us. We can learn skills we'd never imagined.

In my dream, the community gathers at the library in comraderie and joy, sharing information, delight, good recipes, tips and tricks for getting more from life, and this amazing bonding occurs. Folks are surprised that those previously deemed different are so alike when they've read & shared the same books. It could be a whole new world.