Madam, – As a boy, I used to attend the library after school, while I waited for my mother to collect me. My friends and I used to gather at the round tables and discuss the daily issues. However, our conversation was always interrupted by the “shhhh” of the library lady, before we were eventually asked to leave. This was the way things should be.
Today, 10 years on, I decided to go to the library to study for my college exams. I presumed nothing had changed. But, as I sit here, writing this letter, I can’t help but get frustrated as the library workers laugh and chat aloud, disturbing everyone. The kids at the table where we used to sit are laughing and messing with books.
The strangest thing is (and perhaps it’s because I haven’t been in the library in 10 years), no one else seems frustrated by this.
The library and the church were the only two quiet places in the community. What has happened? It is a sad day when the library is no longer a place to study and read in quiet. – Yours, etc,