Although classes have been done for about two weeks now, I had a paper extended past the last day, which I finally finished two days ago. It was a research paper, and I don’t know if I was happy about it. I found that my enthusiasm for Knowledge Organization has waned over the course of the semester.
However, in completing my research proposal for Research Methods, I was brought back to the real reason why I applied to study here, beyond the professional training. I got an A+ on my proposal, and I am considering doing a Master’s thesis based on it. I will post the paper shortly, and I hope you all will give some comments.
However, inspired by a post at Walt at Random, I am going to talk a bit about Public libraries, and more particularly the one two blocks from my house. Walt Crawford was considering the fact that people tend to go shopping and spend money when they are bored, and I’ll quote him at length:
And there are always books to be read. A couple hundred thousand about 7 minutes away, neatly arranged and all for free!. I figure there are at least four or five thousand that I want to read or should read.
To those who feel the need to Go Out and Buy because they’re bored: Most places have one of these collections of free books and other materials, usually with experts who can help answer questions and find what you can use. Reading is a great way to conquer boredom. So are meditation and deep thinking, but I know that’s a lot to ask.
I think that everyone, librarians that is, has a picture of an ideal library. Or maybe it is just me.
