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I grew up in Hood River and the library was one of my family's favorite places.  My grandmother read stacks of books checked out from HR's library in a week, returned them, and got another stack.  I checked out books on everything I was even slightly interested in.  I read about star constellations and where to find them; about Henry VIII and his 6 wives. I even checked out books on German, of which all I can remember now is apfel (apple).  Certainly the internet has become a big part of the way people get their reading materials, but there is something romantic about cracking open a book with that signature library book smell.  And not everyone has access to computers and the internet, especially in small more rural towns as Hood River felt, and somewhat was, when I was growing up.  The library offers a relatively compact way of taking knowledge and adventure with you when you're heading back to a far out farm, hunting, or camping.  And sorry folks, but I don't think a kindle will last on a wet hunting/camping trip in Oregon.  The pages may stick together but at least it won't short out or void the warranty.  I'm incredibly sad and dismayed that my home library has closed.  I wish it were still open for the kids like me who want to learn about everything, but couldn't afford a computer at home.

posted 2 years, 10 months ago
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