I used the library as a kid for research. School reports and projects had me at the school, and then public and college libraries. But that’s not where I got my personal reading books. Mom bought me those through those scholastic catalogs, and later book stores, and when I was trying to save money, book swaps. But with book swaps, you pay for shipping. We can’t spare that money right now.

I ventured into the library because I was finally desperate for reading material. I was disappointed in the selection, as our branch is really small. But then I discovered ::cue hallelujia chorus:: the county website. I can order any book in the county system online and pick it up at my branch.

I can’t tell you how wonderful it is to be reading anything and everything my heart desires again. For free. Sigh. I know I’m late to the game, but seriously? This has changed my life. I can still “escape” without feeling guilty about the finances.