Lost in Literature

The allure of my local library

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Hello from my lovely local library, where there exists a haven, a sanctuary nestled amidst the bustling streets and the cacophony of daily life - a place where the whispers of pages turning echo softly where the scent of aged paper mingles with the promise of new discoveries.

This refuge is none other than my favourite library, a sanctuary of solace and serenity.  Here amid the endless shelves of books, I find respite from the chaos of the world outside, away from the relentless list of life admin and Welsh wet drizzle.

As I step through the library’s threshold, a wave of tranquility washes over me.  The hushed atmosphere, broken only by the occasional rustle of pages or the soft murmur of conversation, totally soothes my soul.  Each corner of this old Victorian building invites me to take a peak, offering a cosy corner or a brightly lit table and chair.  If anything, there are too many options.  But I opt for my usual seat by the window, where no strangers can pass by, giving me the space to write, read or daydream.

Within minutes procrastination sets in, I’m distracted by a student who’s typing furiously on her keyboard, I wonder whether she’s late completing her assignment or if she is close to finalising her fourth draft of her memoir.  It’s so easy to lose yourself in others, especially when you know you should be creating your very own content. I always find solace in the simple pleasure of people watching.  From the cosy confines of my chosen nook, I continue to observe the ebb and flow of humanity, each person lost in their own world of words and wonder.

In a weird sort of way, there is a beauty in this shared solitude, a silent camaraderie among kindred spirits bound by their love of literature.  I always dream of hosting journaling workshops here, but never sure if it would be of interest to local folk, I guess I’ll never know if I never try.

Workshops aside, the true magic of this library lies within its shelves, where endless rows of books stand as silent pillars, guarding the treasures of human knowledge and imagination.  Here, I can lose myself in worlds both real and imagined, exploring distant lands or delving into the depths of history and self-help.

As I look at the large ticking clock, reminding me I only have one hour left here to linger, I cannot help but wish I could stay here for an eternity.  I’d be happy hanging out here with Virginia Woolf, Kathryn Mannix and Stephen Fry, as the outside world fades into insignificance, replaced by the comforting embrace of this literary haven.  What about you, do you have a love for your local library?  Long may they live.  Print is not dead, not yet.

Until the next time

Take care and stay safe xx

PS. The Memoir Writing Day Retreat I’m hosting with

Clover Stroud

is now 50% SOLD OUT, if you’d like to know more or book a space please email hello@easeretreats.com