We haven’t eaten in a restaurant for four months.  Took one trip to the doctor in Indy.  Have seen a few family members.  It’s a pretty dull situation when going to the grocery store is the highlight of your week.  Thanks to  the pandemic, life has become rather boring for those of us who aren’t in  panic mode.  The local library was one of the last places allowed to open, way after bars, restaurants and hair salons.  Which seems odd, because our local library appears to be the safest place in town.

While they were closed, you could still order books for curbside  delivery while you waited outside in your car.   All returned books were “quarantined” for several days before going back in circulation.  I think they’re still doing that.

When the public library  finally opened a couple of weeks ago, I barely recognized the interior.   All personnel wore masks.  Strangely enough, it  was nearly empty of patrons.  Maybe four or five  at any given time.  You have to wonder why people would feel comfortable in bars and restaurants, but not in the library, which is spacious,  modern,  and has good air circulation.

They’ve made a lot of changes.  There used to be about 25  computers for use.  People sitting close together while tapping away.  The keys were often greasy. Now, they have fewer computers which are cleaned between use.  Time is limited to one hour.  Free masks are provided, but not mandatory.

The biggest and most important changes are about the furniture.  They’ve removed all the upholstered furniture, and large tables.  Only a few stiff metal chairs and a couple of small metal tables are available. Why is this important?  Because we no longer have  people hanging out in the library. There’s no place to sit or lounge for hours on end.  If you think that’s cruel, , let me add that a local not-for profit has opened a homeless shelter.  Here, the homeless can shower, rest, and get counseling as to ways to get off the streets.  This is a much needed alternative to spending the day in the library and washing your hair in the toilet.  It’s a win win situation for everyone.

If you do take the risk of going to the library, you have another nice surprise in store.  The best seller shelves are full of brand new books.  You have lots more to pick from, even in the large print section.

Are you tired of sitting at home, playing computer games and cleaning your house?  Take a trip to the library..  It’s the safest place.