This morning I had to go my university's library to find some books for a paper I was writing. It has been about 19 years since I have been in "The Stacks." In my undergraduate studies, I went to the library often as I needed many references. But now in my graduate studies and the availability of so much on the Internet, I have not needed to go to the library.
It was early in the morning, the first day back to school after spring break. "The Stacks" were super quiet - no one else there. The books I needed were at the opposite end of the room from the entrance. The smell of "The Stacks" is unique and it was very familiar. I marvelled as I walked amongst the shelves scanning the titles - so much research, so much study, so much information - was stored there. So many titles caught my interest.
And the familiar urge to seek more knowledge returned in great force. I wished I had the time to sit down and peruse some of these books and journals. Memories of my past of reading extra things while looking for what was needed flooded back. And I was sad. Yes, the Internet is great but it is frustrating to sift through. It is not quiet and it has no atmosphere!! And for today I was made aware of all the great writings that are out there right in front of my eyes. And it was all good.
In the advent of all the technology today, may we never lose the memories of "The Stacks."
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