The Library Card

Richard Wright has a chapter by this title in his book Black Boy. I used to read it aloud with my classes when I was teaching. It's a beautiful piece that speaks to the source of oppression -- ignorance -- and his triumph over it when he secured the key to knowledge in the form of a card to the whites-only library. My library card came to me through a much easier route, but I treasure it all the same. The library has always been my place of refuge anywhere I've lived. I was reminded of this today as I ventured out of the house and into the local branch of the Jacksonville Public Library.

I've mentioned before that our libraries are in trouble, and I'm sure our community isn't the only one facing this situation. Beyond the resource of books -- even if I buy a book, I often take it for a "test drive" first by borrowing it -- are the arguably more important services our libraries provide: free internet access, kids' programs, meeting rooms. The kids' programs in particular are invaluable, not only to the participating children but to the community at large. Reading is the single most crucial factor in learning, and educated kids are more likely to be productive citizens. I got my first library card before I started school, and each of my sons got his library card as soon as he was able. (I think they had to wait until they started school.) Even prior to their having their own cards, they chose books that I checked out on my card and enjoyed time in the library. My granddaughters now go to the same library I took their dad and uncles to.

Books really are the keys to knowledge, and (not to sound trite) knowledge is the key to power. If you know and understand, you cannot be oppressed. It's just that simple. On the other hand, I guess some people will always slip through the cracks. Our local libraries are hosting early voting, and as I left today with my stack of books, I overheard an older couple as they were walking in. Upon seeing the "early voting" signs, the lady asked the man, "Is this for the presidential election?" Ah, well. Books alone can't make people smart.