Books: September 2004 Archives

I stopped at my library today to pick up some books I had requested. It was strange as the browse feature of the library interface had been deactivated to allow workmen to install new carpeting. The only thing that was open was the check-out, request pick-up and book returns. At first I was a bit taken aback by this arrangement since I am used to browsing at least a little at the library.

After a few minutes thinking about this new strange experience, I think there ought to be more libraries like this. I think there is a place for browsing and reference libraries, but there is likely also a need for a more kiosk style library service where you just pick-up and drop off books. It could be staffed by someone without a Library Science degree, and could be in a retail setting, like a corner of a local Starbucks. This way there could be more libraries and more access to books. The kiosk could even be portable and have regular stops in large company campuses as well.

One reason why I like this idea is that I have been making such use of the book request system now that it's available on-line. It's so convenient to just get an email when the book is ready.

I got this note in my gmail inbox this afternoon from Harper Collins.

It's unfortunate that Harper Collins doesn't know the sex of it's authors.

Anyway, I'm a big Christopher Moore fan and would love the chance to talk to him. Anyone want to start a fake book club with me?

As you might know, I am trying to start reading more important books. The first book I chose from my list was "To Kill A Mockingbird", by Harper Lee.

For me I found the beginning of the book rather slow. Once the plot began to develop more, say by mid book, I was hooked. The language was very believable and evocative of the south. The character I liked the most was Adolphus Raymond, who was not a really an important character and therefore underdeveloped. It wasn't really a plot driven narrative, but it has a certain rhythm and beauty in its pacing. It is always interesting to me to see "simple" small town life (which is never as simple as it might seem on the surface), seen through children's eyes — or how adults remember seeing it through children's eyes.

I'm glad I read it. The book was beautiful in its language, painting both the complexities and the absurd contradictions of life in the genteel — yet painfully prejudiced south.