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When I saw this book at my local library, I was nerdily, smitten…as someone who has a self-proclaimed obsession with libraries, and has recently left a successful 27-year career in corporate America to pursue library studies, THIS was my next read.
I realize the subject may not sound as appealing as the latest New York Times fiction bestseller, and it may not be on the ‘Too Hot to Hold’ shelf (but it actually was at my library)…but I found it to be intriguing and a great read. I enjoyed the very short story chapters, each sharing a different individual’s best story about being a bookseller or librarian. They are indeed the unsung heroes of the book world. I loved that they shared their stories so transparently, and with real-life details, of what made them tick at helping patrons and customers. It isn’t merely about helping someone find their next great read, while that is certainly fun and rewarding.
I found myself reading only a few stories at a time in an attempt to make the book last longer, rather than racing through it, which is the sign of a really great read in my opinion. I learned a lot about what makes folks in this line of work really tick, and where they find satisfaction. Spoiler…a lot of their passion is simply found in helping others, it just happens to be that bookstores and libraries are the settings they place themselves in to do so.
I am even contemplating reading this again as I start my next adventure to become a librarian myself. I hope some of you who also love books will pick this one up at your local library and enjoy it as much as I did.
Do you have a favorite story about a librarian or bookseller who has been helpful to you? I’d love to read it in the comments…
Libba Loves Books 