Every Story Counts

CLOSED: More to say? Tell us about why the library matters to you. Share your library story here.

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  Love the library

  by Shelly, 3 months ago

  Through my entire life, the library has been a part of my memories. Growing up in a small town, the library was a place of community, fun and comfort. As I grew older I was able to study, meet up with friends and find a peaceful place to read and unwind. When I had children, the library was a weekly delight for us all. Story times, so many books and programs for the kids. As a preschool teacher, my teacher card has been so rewarding. The library has books for each new theme and the kids are so excited to... Continue reading

  Through my entire life, the library has been a part of my memories. Growing up in a small town, the library was a place of community, fun and comfort. As I grew older I was able to study, meet up with friends and find a peaceful place to read and unwind. When I had children, the library was a weekly delight for us all. Story times, so many books and programs for the kids. As a preschool teacher, my teacher card has been so rewarding. The library has books for each new theme and the kids are so excited to see and hear new books. In my spare time I love reading. I do download books or.listen to them occasionally but still prefer to hold a book with pages in my hands and read it.

  Im so grateful for the public library and love it so much! What a fabulous service forniur community!!! A huge thabk you to our librarians and staff for our wonderful libraries and library programs!!!
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  Even in handcuffs he wanted to visit the library

  by Jim’s and Jordan’s Mom, 3 months ago
  My young sons and I visited the library at least once a week. The library was a source of wonder for them that started when they were under two years old. No

  matter what they were engaged by at home whenever I said it’s library day they dropped anything and anybody and rushed to the car. We had a bit of a drive and spent quite a bit of time in the car so there were always toys and other time passers in the car. When we arrived at the library and I exited the driver’s seat to get them... Continue reading

  My young sons and I visited the library at least once a week. The library was a source of wonder for them that started when they were under two years old. No

  matter what they were engaged by at home whenever I said it’s library day they dropped anything and anybody and rushed to the car. We had a bit of a drive and spent quite a bit of time in the car so there were always toys and other time passers in the car. When we arrived at the library and I exited the driver’s seat to get them out of the car, my older son, Jim, said Jordan can’t come in. I looked at Jordan sitting in his car seat and noticed the problem: he had put a pair of play handcuffs around his ankles and the cuffs were locked. There was no key. When I said we would have to go home Jordan held up his hands and said plaintively, “Please. Me go to brary.” I picked him up and carried him throughout the library stopping by our favorite spots as we always did and selecting our usual number of books.
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  My library

  by Lora, 3 months ago
  My parents and brother moved to La Mesa in 1954. I was born in 1957 and we moved early in 1958, closer to the library. My mother would take us kids to the library, at least weekly, over the Culowee hill. I have such strong memories of the old library. Piles of books. I can't live without them. Yes, I do read some electronically, but to have a real book in hand is such a pleasure.

  My parents and brother moved to La Mesa in 1954. I was born in 1957 and we moved early in 1958, closer to the library. My mother would take us kids to the library, at least weekly, over the Culowee hill. I have such strong memories of the old library. Piles of books. I can't live without them. Yes, I do read some electronically, but to have a real book in hand is such a pleasure.
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  My Free to Be Me Space

  by SnK, 3 months ago

  I was the new kid, my dad had just been moved by the Navy to San Diego. Born on the east coast the differences between Charleston, SC and San Diego were enormous. My mom had her hands full figuring out this new place and helping my younger brother; and I wasn't really looking for parental oversight or assistance. The high school's "open" campus, lack of swipe ID badges, casual dress codes, and teachers in sandals... was a stark difference to what I was used to. The kids were nice, no more clique than any other school, but definitely into the... Continue reading

  I was the new kid, my dad had just been moved by the Navy to San Diego. Born on the east coast the differences between Charleston, SC and San Diego were enormous. My mom had her hands full figuring out this new place and helping my younger brother; and I wasn't really looking for parental oversight or assistance. The high school's "open" campus, lack of swipe ID badges, casual dress codes, and teachers in sandals... was a stark difference to what I was used to. The kids were nice, no more clique than any other school, but definitely into the beach and sports. That really wasn't my thing, I didn't mind being outside but really liked reading things that exposed and transported me to different places, times and cultures (and being away from my mom's scrutiny at home). I found all that and more at my Encinitas library. With its central location near down town and dedicated young person's area I could safely and comfortably hang there for hours, and my parents where OK with that. I could explore, investigate and learn about different ideas, concepts and the larger world around me without feeling the pressure of fitting in, having to say the right thing or trying to be "cool". The librarians were casual, not overly watchful or suspicious and very helpful no matter what my interest was without being to directive or judgmental. A great thing about the library was it was real. I could directly engage with it individually or with others collectively, versus having to guess or interpret what something or someone on a screen was projecting at me. Better yet, it was the same everyday, I could rely upon it, lean upon it and know it would be there for me. It didn't constantly change based upon a mood, fad, or some other "drama". The library became my safe-haven where I could feel free to be me.

  As time passed I slowly acclimate to "SoCal" life, finding my own niche in school and amongst new friends. While I have graduate from school now and have my own kids, I still visit my library regularly. It is still my safe and real "happy place" that continues to grow with me, nurturing my never ending interests and explorations. And, every once in a while, I am rewarded in seeing some new young person discovering how the library offers them an authentic and safe place to be free to be themselves.
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  Love the Oside Library

  by PAchEs, 3 months ago
  I absolutely love the Oceanside library on civic center, and have for many many years ! The fountains are phenomenal and I stop and appreciate the beautiful view and the bustling life, including the seagulls and pigeons!! Upon entering the building being met by courteous, kind security guards is a welcoming sight. I use the library for researching and checking out books

  I utilize the computer services for printing. I am able to place a hold on books if all copies are in use, or go to the mission branch and pick up my selection there in some cases. The... Continue reading

  I absolutely love the Oceanside library on civic center, and have for many many years ! The fountains are phenomenal and I stop and appreciate the beautiful view and the bustling life, including the seagulls and pigeons!! Upon entering the building being met by courteous, kind security guards is a welcoming sight. I use the library for researching and checking out books

  I utilize the computer services for printing. I am able to place a hold on books if all copies are in use, or go to the mission branch and pick up my selection there in some cases. The staff has always been extremely helpful @ the civic center location. I unfortunately have a fee due for a damaged book that I wasn’t able to return and one of the staff members have allowed me to check out books, most have denied me. But those that have showed me that kindness have done man amazing favor that words can not convey my true appreciation. I love books I’ve checked out hundreds and returned them all except one. I must admit for all my appreciation the fact I wasn’t able to pay a 35$ fine has Caused me to be denied the privilege to borrow books is quite surprising. I’ve asked numerous staff members and there’s been two females who have graciously allowed me to borrow books, which I returned as usual without delay, but most and I’ve asked at least 15 or 20 times denied me.
  I love the Oceanside library.

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  
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  Learning, Learning, and more Learning

  by Foxhound, 3 months ago

  The last few weeks, I've had the pleasure of spending time with some world renowned chefs, gaining their wisdom as they invited me into the joys and challenges of the culinary world. Now, I look to embark on a journey through film history—reading some of the best film criticism and expanding my understanding of cinema as it shapes my views, our society, and our thinking more broadly. All of that learning would have cost a fortune, but I got it all for free.

  Indeed, this would not have been possible had it not been for the library and all of... Continue reading

  The last few weeks, I've had the pleasure of spending time with some world renowned chefs, gaining their wisdom as they invited me into the joys and challenges of the culinary world. Now, I look to embark on a journey through film history—reading some of the best film criticism and expanding my understanding of cinema as it shapes my views, our society, and our thinking more broadly. All of that learning would have cost a fortune, but I got it all for free.

  Indeed, this would not have been possible had it not been for the library and all of the books—the knowledge, the wisdom, the varying perspectives—it offers. I am so thankful for libraries. They give everyone an opportunity to learn and grow and, with this knowledge, perhaps even change the world.

  
  

  
  
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  A love of reading

  by Pam Warren , 3 months ago
  As a child in elementary school, Scholastic book order time was a perennial favorite. Selecting my books, eagerly awaiting their arrival, then reading to my heart's delight.

  When my children started school I volunteered at their library's. Then I'd take them to our public library. They loved being able to check out 10 books at a time! I would do the same. It was pure joy!

  Then I fell in love with the Friends of the Library store and created my own library. In more recent years I've made use of the digital library. I can't tell you what a... Continue reading

  As a child in elementary school, Scholastic book order time was a perennial favorite. Selecting my books, eagerly awaiting their arrival, then reading to my heart's delight.

  When my children started school I volunteered at their library's. Then I'd take them to our public library. They loved being able to check out 10 books at a time! I would do the same. It was pure joy!

  Then I fell in love with the Friends of the Library store and created my own library. In more recent years I've made use of the digital library. I can't tell you what a gift that is! I tell everyone I know, about the wonder of the Public Library system and what an asset and blessing it is for every citizen. I am forever grateful.

  
  

  
  
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  Grateful for San Diego Library- Treasure of Knowledge.

  by Prasantiram, 3 months ago

  
  

  I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to the library for being such an inspiring and supportive place for my children and our family and the community. The resources they provide, the activities and programs they conduct is commendable. It's for all ages and with lots of choices, welcoming environment and extremely helpful librarians and staff. This plays played a meaningful role in helping my children learn, explore, and grow. The opportunity to engage with 3D printing has been especially impactful, giving them a structured yet creative way to bring their imaginations to life and develop new skills in... Continue reading

  
  

  I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to the library for being such an inspiring and supportive place for my children and our family and the community. The resources they provide, the activities and programs they conduct is commendable. It's for all ages and with lots of choices, welcoming environment and extremely helpful librarians and staff. This plays played a meaningful role in helping my children learn, explore, and grow. The opportunity to engage with 3D printing has been especially impactful, giving them a structured yet creative way to bring their imaginations to life and develop new skills in learning, design, and innovation.

  I am also deeply grateful for the honor of being chosen as a cultural ambassador at the time of Diwali to showcase our traditions. I share our Indian national musical instrument called Veena .This opportunity allows me to share my culture with the wider community and contribute to the rich diversity that makes the library such a special place. Thank you for fostering creativity, inclusion, and learning for families like ours. Your continued support truly makes a difference, and we are thankful to be part of such a vibrant community.

  children walks into the library curious and inspired. What began as books on a shelf turned into ideas in their minds, and soon those ideas took shape through 3D printing,something they could hold. —little hands building big imaginations. The library became more than a place to read; it became a place where learning felt exciting and creativity had structure. When I was invited to serve as a cultural ambassador, it felt like a natural extension of that same spirit—sharing stories, traditions, and connections with a community that truly values inclusion. For all of this, we are deeply thankful to the library for helping our children dream, create, and belong. The library gave their curiosity direction and made learning joyful. Being chosen as a cultural ambassador was an honor, and it reminded me that this library is not just about books, but about community, creativity, and sharing who we are. Thank you for making our family feel welcomed and inspired.

  Thank you for this opportunity and for your continued support. I truly hope this initiative creates more innovative opportunities for both the young and the old, encourages greater resourcefulness, and enables everyone to thrive.

  
  

  
  
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  A “home” away from homeE

  by Karina, 3 months ago

  As a child I remember my parents taking my brother and I to the Lincoln Acres Library. My brother and I loved our little Lincoln Acres library that looked like a little house. The library was our second “home”. We were always greeted by our librarian Perla. As we got older we would meet our friends at the library to do homework, look at magazines, read/check out books and talk with Perla. When we both went off to college we didn’t frequent the library as much but always tried to stop by and say hi whenever we could. Once I... Continue reading

  As a child I remember my parents taking my brother and I to the Lincoln Acres Library. My brother and I loved our little Lincoln Acres library that looked like a little house. The library was our second “home”. We were always greeted by our librarian Perla. As we got older we would meet our friends at the library to do homework, look at magazines, read/check out books and talk with Perla. When we both went off to college we didn’t frequent the library as much but always tried to stop by and say hi whenever we could. Once I became a mom we would visit my parents and they would babysit my children as toddlers. My parents introduced by kids to our library. This time my children would enjoy the books and the programs. After my parents passed, my children now school age, we moved to the neighborhood and we continue frequent our library. My kids always ask to go visit their grandfathers friend, Jose the librarian. The Lincoln Acres library has always and continues to be a “home” asay from home.
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  Appreciate the modern and digital options

  by Germaiian, 3 months ago

  Going with my kids to the library to browse the shelves and pick out a book is a great way to expose them to different topics, subjects, authors and themes. My older son reads quite a lot, and it'd be an expensive endeavor to keep up with the volume.

  I also appreciate the modern touches, digital downloads, audio books, and blueray/DVDs for the occasional movie or TV series we want to watch (without having to fork out a subscription fee for a streaming service).

  Going with my kids to the library to browse the shelves and pick out a book is a great way to expose them to different topics, subjects, authors and themes. My older son reads quite a lot, and it'd be an expensive endeavor to keep up with the volume.

  I also appreciate the modern touches, digital downloads, audio books, and blueray/DVDs for the occasional movie or TV series we want to watch (without having to fork out a subscription fee for a streaming service).