Troy Public Library in Michigan has barely avoided closure and they are displaying some of their collection of letters from leading lights and authors. They’re charming and lovely.
Check them out here:
A library is many things
via Letters of Note
Here’s a sample:
“Transcript
16 March 1971
Dear Boys and Girls,
Congratulations on the new library, because it isn’t just a library. It is a space ship that will take you to the farthest reaches of the Universe, a time machine that will take you to the far past and the far future, a teacher that knows more than any human being, a friend that will amuse you and console you—and most of all, a gateway, to a better and happier and more useful life.
(Signed, ‘Isaac Asimov’)
Isaac Asimov”
“Transcript
Dr. Seuss
7301 Encelia Drive
La Jolla, California 92037
Dear Children of Troy:
Read!
Read!
Read!
Read!
Read!
Read!
That’s the advice of your good friend, Dr. Seuss”
In Texas a few weeks ago I had the pleasure of meeting Daniel Handler / Lemony Snicket and awesome illustrator Maira Kalman. They generously spent a long time with a group of middle and high schoolers that I had just done a session with. The yung adults loved it! My experience is that authors are very giving for kids and libraries.
Now, do you request letters from local and major authors to enhance your branch openings and events? This is a great idea and is expecially charming, as seen here, when the letters are addressed to kids about libraries.
Stephen
Thank you, Stephen, for the wonderful post.
Your readers might be interested to know that the Troy (MI) Public Library has received another reprieve from closing. On May 16, the Troy City Council decided that we would be open through August 2. On that day, the residents in Troy will vote on a millage to keep the Library open. Wish us luck!