Tuesday, July 29, 2014

On Obsessions

Coca cola obsessives. Smokers. Ice cream aficionados. Even those who succumb to socially unacceptable drugs— or moderately acceptable highs. Reality show followers. Sports fans. Compulsive shoppers.

I have something in common with the entire group. I love libraries. I can't go into a library without borrowing a book. If I'm states away without a library card I'll still visit a library and walk down their book aisles—perhaps I'll see a book I must read.

Several years ago I discovered a small library in Prospect Harbor, Maine—Dorcas Library. During the summer, the library stays open on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday 1:00-4:00pm. I fell in love with both the view and the history.

According to the posted information they began in two rooms—one room was for the members of the Dorcas Society, a Christian women's group. They met and quilted in one room and the other room held donated books. This was a volunteer operation—still is.

The first time I went into the Dorcas Library I noted a framed placard in a prominent spot: Acts. 9: 36

In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha ( in Greek Dorcas); she was always doing good and helping the poor.

The last time I visited Prospect Harbor the placard no longer held a prominent place on the wall—but was still in evidence. I rather missed the first location.


I keep a notebook of books I want to read.

Today I went to my local library to return a book.
"Anything here for me?"
"Two books on their way."

So I went upstairs to browse and passed a display rack of books that people had read, loved, and placed in a box of reader suggestions. The librarian places those books on a shelf—hoping to garner interest. I selected a slim volume by a familiar author. Then I looked on the shelves for the same author and took out another of his books.

In my ever present purple pack I had one barely started book and another halfway done.

At home my stacks grow as if I am busy fertilizing the shelves.

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