The Safe Space

Everyday we encounter all kinds of people who enter the library. People from all walks of life, ethnicities, ages, and different backgrounds. We hear hundreds of stories from people who just simply need a listening ear. A lot of engaging conversations are simply started by saying, "Hi, how are you today?" And from that simple phrase and a smile from a librarian or library worker seems to cause people to relax and go, oh, I'm safe here. The library should be that one safe space that you can go to be free and be who you are. It should be that space that you know that you won't be brushed off by the staff by coming in and asking questions or by coming in looking for someone to sit and chat with. Here in Enfield, it doesn't matter how much work we have laid out for the day. When a patron enters our doors, we stop everything just to make sure that their visit to the library is an exceptionally pleasant one. We have sat and talked with patrons who are frustrated about their job or unsure about how to fill out an application correctly. We are even that shoulder for a senior citizen to cry on because they are missing that special someone. Libraries should reflect the type of kindness that the world is lacking today. And I am proud to work in a library and in a library system that is a perfect example of that. So if you are missing that safe space in your life, visit your local library. We want you here, we support you here, you matter here. Welcome to your safe haven....the library.