Treasure

I know don't get too excited this is not aother post on the goodness of the profession of pirating and pillaging to earn one's living. Today I would like to divulge one of the world's best kept secrets that was discovered by many including a small fictional character named Matilda. In the dark, dreary ( col, for those of you not living in the sub-tropics of the US) winter a bright spot on the horizon is the local library.
One may wonder why this venue is the choicest beyond all others int eh winter, but let me explain. THe library is a WARM public place with more attractions than any theme park one could imagine. Best point there is no height requirement for entering this sanctuary from the cold. Therein the knowledge of the ages is contained for those seeking the wealth of man through reading. If you feel like learning a new language there are books and mind you audio tapes/ cds for the taking. If your kids need an enjoyable activity not only is there a section devoted to their interests but also story time, and activity days to foster the creative juices that might otherwise be expressed in hyperactive craziness. Even for those who don't want to read books there is a gamut of dvds to borrow. Furthermore if you haven't had time to subscribe to any magazine under the sun it is available for your perusal at tone of the convenient desks or over stuffed chairs.
The best part is this a resource to explore the inner self- no matter what area you might want to see if you have an active interest in you will be able to obtain some information whether over the internet, through the library exchange program, or from one of the many resources located on the shelves.
When entering the building one knows that they are embarking on a journey into another world guarded by a spectacled guard ensuring that no damage will be done to the revered atmosphere or the organization of the treasured, labeled and filed contents of the trove. THis may be intimidating to have someone watching over your ever move, but remember that behind the spectacles is a person who is simply trying to protect a resource that has no price. YES it is true if you are a careful person your access to this building is free of charge, and fee associated with mishap is minimal. SO please don't be one of those frustrating people at Barnes and Noble who gets three books then sits down to read all three without ever buying one. simply go to your local library, mine is literally a block away to the recent arrivals, and read your heart out.
The one down side to the library compared to Barnes and Nobles is that there is no snack bar, but if you check out a book, then the options for indulgence become unlimited at any of your family's favorite cafes, bakeries, or diners, thus ensuring that you won't spend $3 on the last stale chocolate chip cookie from the display case at a regular book store.
SO try it out, and if the librarian gives you a dirty look on your way in, give her a smile and head for the section of your choice, she is just jealous that you could read your books out of doors while she is shushing and filing for hours on end.
Rachel