Granted, I do see people checking out stacks of DVDs, which to me can come across like using the library as a free DVD renting service, but I guess that's not so bad.
I also see things that really illustrate the importance of these public services, like someone using the computers to fill out an online job application or taking notes from a guidebook for a certification exam. These people do not come across like they want to milk the system for a handout. The look like they want a job, or they want a job that is better than the one they have now.
Then there are the things that just make me smile: kids getting excited about a book, or a little kid I saw to day who was wearing an empty backpack around. I know it was empty because it was unzipped nearly all they way and was hanging open. It also looked very new. I don't know for sure, but I imagined that it was his new backpack for school and he was excited to wear it. At least that is what I'm hoping.
I also saw this gem today: a man standing in the checkout line by himself with a stack of books. All had titles like "Your First Pregnancy" and "A Guide to Yoga for Pregnant Women."
Congratulations man, did you just find out today?
