Library Director Dan Szczesny writes a daily column that he publishes on Substack. Here is a recent column we thought you would enjoy:
A few days ago, I was chatting with a regular library patron while her children browsed the kid
section. She and her family are regulars and her kids are delightful. It’s a joy seeing them.
She surprised me with something. She told me that her littlest refers to the library as Mr. Dan’s
House. As in, ‘Let’s go to Mr. Dan’s house.’
Goodness but that’s a first for me. I suggested we replace the sign over our front door to Mr.
Dan’s House.
So, after a few days of thinking about it, a couple thoughts here.
I’m so grateful and humbled that our smallest patrons are comfortable enough – both with the
library and with me – to think of our tiny space in those terms. The idea of our library as a warm,
safe home make me happy.
But also, it’s not my house.
It is, in fact, her house. Her’s and her family’s. And the Auburn community’s. It is, to be sure,
everyone’s house, and for every or any reason. That’s the whole point!
No one should feel unwelcome and there should be comfort, security and shelter for anyone who
walks through those doors.
You know, the doors with my name over them.
Just kidding.
This is your place. All of you. Stop by any time to visit your house.