What Does the Library Mean to You?
We have recently asked patrons to share with us what the library means to them and we have received an overwhelming response! You may use this form to tell us your library story. Here are some of the responses we have received so far.
The Library means a great deal to me. I am a 91 year old shut-in. I look forward to receiving new books once a month. Being alone most days, the books are my company. In my opinion, T.V. can never take the place of a good book. - Ruth S.
Libraries have always been special to me. I still remember visiting the nearby library weekly as a child in California. The Librarian, Mrs. Stickney, always found the perfect book for me – as she did for my brother and sister, too. The Kingston library feels like a close, warm friend to me, with a helpful and warm staff and the availability to order books from any of the system’s books. Through these books, I travel the world sharing the lives of people who lived centuries ago as well as those living today. How much we can learn from them all. - Jackie S.
This place is an oasis of refreshment in a too-fast-paced world. It is much more homey, cozy, and inviting than the beloved library I walked to in my youth. Of course, that was 50+ years ago and even libraries have changed to keep pace with the times. I love to come here and relax surrounded by books and other people who love to read and learn. Coming here is like stepping across a bridge to a slower, kinder island afloat in a safe harbor away from life's storms. - Carolyn W.
I love this library! It has so many good books! - Amanda H. (child)
The library will be one of the greatest memories for our 7 children. We are at the library at least once a week but often times more. Each of us enjoy the wide variety of materials available to us. We also enjoy being able to use computers or just find a comfy chair to sit and read. Without the Port Orchard Library I feel we would have all missed so much because we have gained a huge amount of knowledge and amusement from the resources available to us. - Tami R.
The Bainbridge Island Library is a home away from home. I bring my two kids and they eagerly seek out history and Star Wars and science (my son) and stuffed animals and puzzles and playmates (my daughter). Meanwhile, I check out juvenile fiction – old favorites and the ones I never read when I was young. - Elizabeth S.
To me the library is a link to life. Caring 24/7 for a wheelchair bound parent doesn't leave room for entertainment beyond the cover of a book. I can read and enjoy myself without leaving the house! Travel, cooking, history, suspense is all at my fingertips. Reading all night is not unusual, it is relaxing. It makes the time go. Thank you for always being there. I've been a library girl since I was 8 -- I'm now 67! - Jackie B.
It means I can indulge my voracious appetite for reading. I devour books as Cookie Monster devours cookies. I read between 400-500 books yearly, average 275pp. Some I speed read in 1-2 hours, others I read more carefully. Without libraries I could not afford, by any means, my reading compulsion. Little Boston Library is especially dear to me because of the helpful staff. They go above and beyond duty to find whatever a customer wants. I can attest to this from frequent personal experience. - CarolAnn L.
The Public Library means civilization to me. Wherever one goes, it's the library that makes you welcome, offers services, resources, advice and information. My only complaint is that the libraries used to be open daily 9am - 10pm. We need to reclaim those hours. - Ernie L.
The Kitsap Library has been very enjoyable for me, having reading material all the time is great. Bonnie does a great job selecting books for me. I look forward to receiving books every month. I appreciate it so much. Thanks a lot. - Melba U.
A bright warm dry place where I can explore the world - Anonymous
I love the Bainbridge Library. It is one of my homes away from home. I’m always able to accomplish significant learning in the library when I read, do my annual tax preparation and look up things on the internet. I like to write letters to family members and friends in the library. I appreciate the beauty and secure comfort of the library and all the great assistance from the librarians and volunteers. - Janice S.
I always come here to do homework, and check out books because my school library stinks and because being on a $5 week allowance doesn’t get u far! - M.M.T.
A Library is the safe place. It’s where I can go without having to worry. The library is a quiet place, where I can sit and study with friendly people and new books. The library is a whole different world. - Gabby S. (Age 10)
The “Hold” system is wonderful! Of course now I never peruse the stacks. I have even persuaded my husband that borrowing books is much better than buying them and wanting to keep them forever. Now if only he didn’t like the book sales so much!! - Anonymous
I LUV IT! - Anonymous
When I moved to Kingston, it was the first place I came. Marj knew my name (after one week) and always had my holds (and cookies) ready for me when I came in. A great place! - Karen J.
It means all the world to me. - Moira M.
To me, the library is a place where I can learn about anything I’m interested in, without being judged. The library is a place where I am accepted for who I am and what I’m curious about. The library is a place of peace. - Kelly C.
I love it! - Tony P.
It is a unique and very special library. Our taxes for libraries provide children and adults with a life time of free arm chair travel, research, practical, academic and literary information and brief escape. - Anonymous
A dive into a pool of imagination and knowledge, never ending, including the internet of course with a scent of a feeling of home. - Léandré F.
It means I get to READ! I could never afford to purchase all the books I can get at the library. Reading is one of my favorite things I do each day. So, I guess you could say - the library enables me to experience pleasure every day. Also, I love learning and investigating. Knowledge empowers me, to understand my life and what is going on around me. What a dull life if there were no libraries. - Mij W.
The library is a fun place to visit. It has a safe environment and has a place to work. The staff here are really nice. Best of all the Library lets you check out books to read. I think the library is the best. - Shadow M.
More than church, more than my poetry group, more than my music students this library makes me feel whole. It makes me happy to be with good readers and learners of every age and station and to know my librarians and enjoy their helpful ways. I’d probably move elsewhere if it weren’t for this good library. - Anonymous
It’s a secret place of quietude and possibility: so many books hovering on the shelves, waiting to be read, and so many words waiting to be written on the bare, white tables. It’s an escape from the hustle-bustle and tasks of the world outside. Inside this peaceful place, my thoughts can wander at their own speed and find their magical destination. - Kirsten P.
A rich intellectual life which I could not afford to maintain on my fixed income. Delightful people to converse with (in charge of service) - Anonymous
It’s an island of calm between the frantic seas of school and work. - James S.
Wally Rocks! I came in at 7:44 with little hope of finding what I needed - 6 minutes later I was checked out with FIVE books on the subject I needed for a school project. - Aubryn M. (27 years teaching)
I love the library! I love knowing I can browse as if in a bookstore, and take books home for a bit, for free! Coming to the library ignites my curiosity and I often wander from my original interest. I love exposing my kids to wonderful books and a community institution. The local art and amazing gardens make it a genuine center piece! Thanks! - Liz P.
My library is a comfort. It provides me with a quiet, peaceful place to explore the world through word + sound + community. My library is a blessing. It’s a cozy place to spend a rainy day, to meet friends, to stay in touch! I love my library! - Gwen F.
For me, the library means a quiet place to write my next book. I come in at least twice a week. - Suzanne S. (author of To catch a Mermaid and Saving Juliet)
The library is a source of information, entertainment & friendly contact. I love volunteering where I know I’m needed. - Anonymous
The library has always been a kind of home for me – reliable, comforting, interesting, friendly – a resource for all parts of my being. Couldn’t make it through without you! - Rhonda
A fun party place where teens can gossip & giggle & flirt & laugh. A free-spirited space where don’ts are only suggestions . . . and no one says “shhh!” – no matter what. The frequent loud metallic clanking & rumbling of hard wheeled carts on unmuffled elevator gaps reminds one that its not your grandparents' quiet library any more. - Frazzl
IT OPENS UP MY WHOLE WORLD!!! - Moira M.
Having started my life in an era where reading was one's only answer to what to do on rainy days or in periods of enforced inactivity, I found the school's library a very satisfactory place to be whenever an opportunity presented itself. After moving into a larger city I found the county library and the books I was able to choose from were like finding new friends in a strange location. Now at the age of 97 Bonnie's monthly visits bringing bags of books has become a highlight in my years of forced inactivity. I spell LIBRARY using all capital letters. - Katie C.
The Library means sanctity from the outside world. It is a haven for book worms and Net junkies alike. - Andy C.
Freedom of speech. Freedom to not be a consumer. To read as many books as possible without supporting Barnes and Noble. A place for my family. Freedom to not own a home computer. Access to so many wonderful things! - Anonymous
Hi guys, I know that the library is often an overlooked resource, but my family and I benefit greatly from your service to the community. We love having what feels like our own personal bookstore for our use, for free, anytime we like. You do a good job keeping up with the latest releases....you carry books from all perspectives...your online catalog/hold options are so convenient, and your staff is always friendly when we go into the library. Keep up the good work, and hang in there as the whole budget situation works itself out. - L. H.
Without the public library, one of the unofficial pins of democracy would be lost. - Anonymous
It means I get to see those lovely librarians, esp. Libby. She’s the best among a real nice staff, a friend. Next, I come to use the computer. Thanks, it is a great service. Now, we need audio and earphone availability. Maybe the next upgrade? And the book and DVDs, I love. - Anonymous
Library means learning, fun, alternative universe, vocabulary, stress release and education for all. It has been a pillar of bright light since I was a child. Every library is different, but the same, wonderful librarians – the excitement and pleasure has remained for me for 50 years – Thank you. - Sophy
The library is a big part of our life. Great source of information and help in our schooling. Wonderful to read books for free. Love the free programs. Very thankful for the library! - Laurel O.
Joy. Intrigue. The ultimate source of information! - Anonymous
Found a Haiku book at the Kingston Library. Now I write haiku’s. - Barbara T.
Thank God for the library! I’m disabled and read a lot. I could never afford to buy them! And the DVD’S!! National Geographic, NOVA, NATURE!! Hours and hours of educational entertainment. Who needs a T.V. ?! - John C.
I got my library card at the age of six. It was a very important day for me. I no longer had to beg my older sister to check books out for me. I love libraries and have been coming faithfully ever since. I am now 84 and I am still reading! - Betty
It all started with Dick and Jane and Spot. I don’t remember Mom reading to me, but I was always ahead of the other children in 1st grade. The teacher said I wasn’t paying attention when I really was three pages ahead. Reading brings the world to me. I like adventure stories and family stores and mysteries by James Lee Burke. - Cecilia C.
So many books, so little cash and room for more in my home. Love to “share” books in Kitsap County. - Ruth H.
(Tell Us Your Story/What Does the Library Mean to You?) “Everything!” - Atlas
My parents didn’t read much but they taught me to read before Kindergarten and later sent me to a private school. That was an entrée into a whole new world – an endless supply of library books that introduced me to new people, pets (Lad: A Dog) and places (The Secret Garden!). My Grandmother Marie Swift helped to found the Kingston library branch and told me it used to be just one little room where she helped set up the Dewey Decimal System on the books. The library is an invaluable resource and a portal to the past and future! - Teresa H.
A place to see or be around others. Books and DVD’s to watch (new friends) I love the library; its familiarity, warmth, connection. - Anonymous
I love your bookmobile service!!! Being a working mom and teacher, I absolutely can not get to town on a regular basis to pick up library loans - I can't even actually get to the Bookmoblie either...a wonderful neighbor does the pick up and drop off. Your online catalog and account access is also great!!! I can keep an eye on my account, and you even send email reminders for when my materials are coming due and should be in the Bookmobile bag! I love our libraries! - From a happy 'customer' - Lesley N.
My son said to me the other day - "I'll be going by the library today. I'm all out of things to read, and Barnes and Noble makes me give them money." Plus he checks out lots of music cd's from you too. Our whole family loves the library! - Karen T.
Because I am an avid reader, I visit my library bi-weekly when I am in town. When I'm traveling, the library's digital services are a hugh bonus. I regularly download both e-books and audio books. Those services provided by the Kitsap Library are among the best, even for such a small community. Kudos to KRL for providing a full range of services for patrons. - Lee P.
I live on my sailboat and I have been a library user since I was five years old. Nothing in my life is more enjoyable than sitting down and getting into a book. I am married and sometimes this can interfere with my everyday chores, but my husband has become accustomed to my reading habits, and in fact, brags about how many books I read. It would not be possible if it weren't for the library. Thank you for your continued efforts to keep me in reading material! - Jackie A.
Salvation – with limited financial resources, I use the library as my personal gold mine. Sometimes I have to dig, and sometimes it doesn’t pan out, but most of the time, often with the kind and knowledgeable help of the expert staff, I hit the Mother Load. Thanks! - Joan B.
The Library to me is a great tool because I work at a day care and I am able to come and check out books for the kids to look at I love coming and looking at all of the different types of books they have for kids. - Sandee R.
Whenever I hear or read about a new book that sounds interesting the first place I go is www.krl.org! I just did! It amazes me that the library will almost always have or will soon have that book. I almost always have library books at home that I'm reading and more on the hold list. The library is a priceless resource. Also, I love the friendly staff and volunteers at the Little Boston Library. What a wonderful group of people! - Alice M.
The ease with which I can place books on hold via the internet is one of my simple pleasures in life. Because every book on my list is something I am excited to read, I love the surprise of receiving a pickup notice in my email inbox--it always feels just a little like I've won the lottery. I can read the latest books without buying them, a tremendous saving for someone who loves books! - Aleta S.
I joined my local library in England when I was five and was hooked. When we moved to Kitsap County, the library was a wonderful surprise I have visited at least once a week for 30 years. It reminds me of home; it encourages my curiosity; it allows me to find out about new interests; it's a place I can meet fellow book-worms; it's an oasis of joy and learning; it's a place I always feel right at home; it connects me to my past and improves my tomorrows. It's truly a part of my life. I love it! - Jennifer Y.
I have been a reader all of my life. But now even more so since I have severe emphysema and more limited activities. I make constant use of and just love the online website and the usually successful results I get when placing books on hold.I highly appreciate our county for it's wonderful library system. - Phyllis R.
I grew up enjoying the summer reading program and doing research for high school and college papers. My own children now have a love for books and visiting the library is an event. I particularly like that the Port Orchard branch is right by the water. We catch the bus near our house, take the ferry, and cross the street to an afternoon of discovery. I hope it's a memory they will cherish, I know I will. - Sarah M.
Our family loves public libraries! When our first child was just a couple of weeks old we made our first trip to the library. Since then we have visited the library at least 48 times a year - for 15 years now! They say if you read to children when they are young, they will love to read. I certainly can attest to that! Both of our kids love to read. There are books in every room of the house, and it all started 15 years ago at a public library. - Christina E.
I can't remember when I didn't read! Now I love selecting my books through the web site, picking them off the HOLD shelf and using the self check-out system but sometimes I choose to visit with the friendly staff as they check out my selections. - Rosemary C.
I am SO GRATEFUL for the library! Our family lives on a very limited budget and it would not be financially possible to read the books we wanted if we had to buy each one. And the "Hold" system makes it so easy to access any book we want. Truly an awesome community resource and one that I deeply appreciate. - Gina C.
I LOVE COMING TO THE LIBRARY BECAUSE IT HAS SO MUCH INFORMATION THAT YOU MIGHT NOT OTHERWISE FIND NO WHERE ELSE. YOU CAN PULL UP SO MANY RESOURCES. I LIKE VARIETY. ALSO WHEN I CAN NOT FIND WHAT I NEED. THERE ARE THOSE WHO HAS THERE WORK CUT OUT FOR THEM, WHO DOES NOT MIND ASSISTING YOU. - Darlene M.
Every week, our family went to the library. I grew up when "Are you my Mother" series was very popular. The great part about the library, is that in the evening, my 5 sisters, family and I would lounge around the living room and read our new books. Also, we used to dissect the Sunday P-I and took turns reading different sections, like the funnies, or the other sections of the Sunday paper. I enjoyed this time with my family and learning to read. - Roxanne B.
I have enjoyed libraries since I was introduced to them in the third grade. Every wednesday we got to get on the bus and visit our local library in Auburn Ca. This was in the early 1970's. There was a librarian there that would read a story to us and then we were able to browse around and check out books. The most memorable field trip was when our class got to visit the construction site of the new main branch. After we got to look around our class photo was taken for the Auburn Journal newspaper. - L. M.
What is a Library? The interpretation has as many opinions as patrons, as for me it has always been a place of peace I can get lost in it's offerings hide out reading the magazines and old newspapers. Shut off my cell phone and the busy world outside. The Port Orchard Library was the place I brought my five children when they were young to pick out their favorite books and now I am escorting my grandchildren there and I find they are selectng some of the same books whose stories are indeed ageless. I cannot imagine a town without it's Library! - Kathleen D.
I go to the library as much as I can. Reading is on of my main things to do at any time of the year. I come to the library because I think it is really fun to read books. I can usually get my favorite books then, but if I can't I can just put them on hold. The library always has the books that just came out, and you can get them in a short amount of time. Me, my sister, and my mom are the main readers of the family. My mom and I LOVE going to the library, 'cause there are so many things to read. - Emma M.
I find the library as a place of salvation. A place were I can escape from this world. Or could it be a link that keeps me going? Any way once I have a book in my hand the things I wish I was or could be, becomes a reality. For in that moment I'm released from the real reality an am placed in a alternative universe where I can share the same thoughts as the character that the author potrays in the story that I come to love and wish to stay for ever in. Thanks library for having all the books I'll ever need to wander in. - Anonymous
We have used the library almost from the time we arrived here in 1962. Before I had email at home I used the library's, and then used the krl.org as long as it was available, learning as I went along. Now I am happy to use the library's books, with 'hold' service, especialy as money gets tighter and is needed for other things than buying books. Beside who has room to store that many? Thanks again for your great services! - Pat J.
The libary for me is a place that I can go and just read. It's a way of helping the environment because if everyone bought books instead of going to the libary think of all the paper that would be wasted and all the money spent on books you would only read once. The libary is also fun with the reading contests and authors that visit there is always something exciting going on at the libary. But in all I think the libary is one of the 'awesomest' places in Kitsap. - Aubrey G.
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