Keep Smiling!

Wow, another long dry spell for me...and you. If you are a faithful reader, town resident, or library user, you know it's been a frustrating few weeks with the budget and the disappointing display at Town Meeting (and that's all I'll say about that. If you were there, you know what I'm talking about.) So needless to say, after endless weeks of meetings, I've been tired. But spring is finally here and the lilacs smell divine so all is right with the world.

First I do want to thank everyone that supported the library with letters to town officials and the great (majority) show of support at the Town Meeting. It is you, the community, that makes this job and this library great! Your random acts of kind words, and moral and financial support keep all of us going. Library staff has pulled together to form an unbeatable team this year and it is all for you! Make sure you thank them for all their dedication in this trying situation.

But, goodness, enough about that. So what are you reading? I'd love to hear some suggestions! I am reading the memoir "What I Talk About When I Talk About Running" by Haruki Murakami. What an inspirational little book. Murakami is by trade a writer and he is a writer who loves to run. This book talks about how running weaves into his life and writing. Even if you are not a runner you understand the motivation, whatever your muse may be. Besides, his life is interesting in so many aspects... the travel, changing careers, taking chances. I recommend this for anyone looking for inspiration. Personally I'm reading it because, as you may know, I did love to run but something snapped and I can't get my groove back. I was hoping this book would give me the spark I need but it has influenced me in so many ways. Give it a try!

Two things I want to mention before logging off . The first is stay tuned for a boat-load of new audios (including Playaways) and videos that will be hitting our shelves in the next few weeks.

Finally, it is that time again for our Annual Appeal. We are trying to raise $20,000 by June 30. A letter should be arriving in your mailbox any day now. Monson Savings has generously issued a challenge to the community. For every $2.00 donated they will donate $1.00, up to $5,000!! Put your money to work! You all know the budget situation. It is dire. We need this appeal to help balance our budget. Please, whatever you can manage is greatly appreciated and you will benefit from it!

I'll post soon and entertain you with some cooking and knitting disasters sure to make you chuckle plus update you on our great summer reading series for all ages! Kick-off party for summer reading is June 16th. Mark your calendars now! 'Til we meet again.............