Yesterday was back to work. After a few conversations with co-workers, I got the general feeling spring break was short and not quite as productive as we all hoped. It’s just long enough to let go of all the anxieties and worries that plague us day by day, but by the time we finally let ourselves go, it’s already time to head back to the grind.
At least I got to come back to my library. It eases the pain of a spent vacation if you can return to something you love, am I right? I was particularly excited because I was expecting a box to be delivered from a major library supplies company. Labels. I got me some labels! And label covers. And shelf magnets to designate topics. And due date slips. It all shipped to the office. Like Christmas morning or something.
And you know what else? A doctoral student came into the office to ask about assessment tests to borrow. And normally I’d have to wish him luck and show him how to jump into the pile of unrelated materials. But now? I got to show off my new organization system that allows the patrons to find what they need by topic. I don’t want to brag—but it’s awesome.
He actually selected two of the materials I recommended! I got to pull out two fresh due date slips, plug in the numbers on my date stamp, and listen to the beautiful sound of the ink hitting the paper. I actually stamped a book yesterday. Doesn’t that bring tears to your eyes? Joyful tears, to be sure. Joyful tears.
And I’m certain some of you could not possibly imagine looking forward to heading back to a job like this. Organizing? Stamping? Labeling? No thanks. But you know what? That’s okay. It’s not for everybody.
I like it. And isn’t that the point? To find something you want to do with your life? To be happy knowing you’re where you’re supposed to be? To find enjoyment even in the mundane details because it serves a greater purpose?
I hope you too are happy where you are, friends.
I worked in a library for two summers when I was in university and I absolutely LOVED it – it’s one of those things I could see myself being quite content doing long-term
How did I miss the stamping of a book? Ahhhh! We should have celebrated. Not a problem-we are going to celebrate all that you have done tomorrow at the faculty meeting. I look forward to it!
Nothing makes a husband happier than a content and happy wife. I’m so excited for you, babe!
What every parent prays for.
you know, i used to ‘play’ library when i was younger. Something about checking the library card, the due date slip, swiping the book across the de-alarmer thingy…so many fun steps! While most kids were playing house, i was playing library!
and while you are ‘playing’ library now, i am ‘playing’ house! 