Week 15 Prompt

The relationship I have to reading has changed quite a bit over the years. Growing up, reading came "easy". I eagerly awaited each summer in order to enroll in the IndyPL Summer Reading Program, gave up my recess to hang out in the library, and fell in love with reading. As a teenager I did not read as often given the increase in school assignments. It felt harder to find the type of books I enjoyed, but I was also too shy to ask for recommendations from a librarian or staff member. Unless it was a popular book like Twilight, I relied upon browsing the shelves to find my next read. In my household it was also not unusual to purchase books at Borders and collect another treasure for my bookshelf. 

After college (not too long ago!) reading became a familiar friend once again. It was a way to pass the time, gain knowledge in subjects that held my interest, and connect with others. Working at a public library opened my eyes to the vast amount of content available at my fingertips. I caught up on the latest best sellers the moment patrons would begin placing them on hold. There was no longer a need to browse the shelves for books because my list was constantly growing without any effort. I would read during work breaks, before bed, and on the weekends. I have to admit I was not a fan of e-reading until the COVID-19 pandemic forced libraries to close, and I even own an e-reader now. 

My upbringing and my career choice has made a large impact on how I view reading and books (both physical and digital), however it is fueled by the magic and essence of books. Le Guin (2008) pointed out the key to books in comparison to television or music. A book is unlike other forms of entertainment where someone nearly sits back and enjoys the show. A book holds so much potential for a reader to process information and recreate worlds from stories in their minds. As Le Guin says, "To read a story well is to follow it, to act it, to feel it, to become it--everything short of writing it, in fact". 

I don't believe we are seeing the last of books anytime soon. Just because reading has become a standard in our educational studies does not mean it is for everyone, however, it is increasing the number of ways it can connect to readers. The emergence of e-books, e-audiobooks, and popular authors who share important stories of different social groups and people will contribute to the success of books well into the future. Not everyone is going to love reading in their free time, but for those who enjoy it, they will only continue to consume new stories. Hopefully publishers will support the expansion and accessibility to perspectives and experiences of the diverse population in which we live long into the future.

Le Guin, U.K. (2008). Staying awake: notes on the alleged decline of reading. Harper's Magazine, 316 (1893). [Files-Canvas]

Harper's Magazine, 316(1893). [Files - Canvas]