#getotl

After nearly 1,400 miles, 4 hours, and 2 Dr. Peppers later we made it. Finally, Washington D.C., our nation’s capital was at my footsteps. As incredible as it may seem, it wasn’t as welcoming as I had hoped but I had certainly not realized it would be so different from home. I had traded the familiar calls of the whippoorwill for those of sirens and car horns. The night sky full of stars I would dream under had transformed into a busy and ever-moving sea of lights. There were a few moments that I would find myself on the brink of a panic attack. I had to remind myself to breathe, eventually breathing became easy and my once empty lungs began to kindle with excitement and laughter. The startling car sounds that had first felt scary had become music to my ears. Maybe not beautiful music, but a new and interesting genre I wanted to embrace. 

Washington was almost paradoxical to me. At the core you could find an archive of our nations history guarded by the ribs of our government and sheathed in a free-spirited and open-armed society. In other words, from pinstriped suits to blue hair our differences made the city whole. That was the most beautiful part of D.C. in my opinion. The scenic view of Washington D.C. was also captivating. The city was infested with sculptures, monuments, and amazing architecture, it was an art junky’s dream. Without a doubt, Michelangelo would be proud. 

As great as that was, the best part of our trip was the kickoff. Really, I owe this entire experience to the Public Library Association and the Institute of Museum and Library Services, you guys rock. If by chance I win the lottery, you guys will definitely get decent chunk of change. It wasn’t until the kickoff that I really realized how important libraries are to our communities. We are the safe havens, we are the bridges to enlightenment and intellectual freedom, and we are the tools used to sculpt and carve the minds of our society. WE ALSO HAVE THE HARRY POTTER SERIES AND FREE WIFI. I also learned that most librarians never dreamt of being librarians and that is totally okay. I was told to embrace failure with open arms. It is after all, just a state of mind. I can definitely say I learned something, even if it was just a magic trick. It was so inspiring to see other people my age so passionate about making our communities better places. I made plenty of friends who I hope to see again in Chicago. 

So, if you see me in the library and you ask how my trip went just know, you will never be able to fathom just how amazing my trip went. No words could ever describe how blessed and enlightened I feel because it feels like nerd nirvana. 

Until next time,

Washington DC

The Public Library Association will be hosting a kickoff for the inclusive internship initiative program. We will be traveling to Washington DC in a matter of hours. Stephanie and I are both excited to travel and we look forward to meeting other interns. Personally, I am eager to see all the historical memorials and monuments. 

To be honest, we are a bit nervous but hopeful for our connected learning projects. I knew I wanted my project to gravitate around literature and art but I had no idea how that would work, then it hit me. Like a semi-truck on the freeway, I was taken by surprise and instantly inspired to create a comic book competition. With the recent release of DC’s Wonder Woman, I came to realize Comic Books have influenced our culture from film to creative expression. As an intern at the library our goal is to encourage lifelong learning, cultural and community engagement, and inventive thinking. What better way to invoke these ideals in the mind of children other than with comic books? I lucked out, turns out there will be a comic book convention in DC. I also believe the Library of Congress will be hosting the Library of Awesome’s Comic Book Exhibition!

Henry Ford

Today was kick off for summer reading at the Chico Public Library. Anticipation boiled as the hands on the clock neared four. There wasn’t a child in sight. It discouraged us all but I think it hurt Emilie the most, after hours of planning activities, we’d have no one to participate. A few minutes past four a startling creak came from the entrance door.

Like little bubbly angels, one-by-one, their heads began to bobble in. Eager, we rose to meet our guests. We had a total of 15 kids come in. Some were shy, others mingled with ease, but all of them were perfect in my eyes. 

We introduced ourselves to the kids, hoping we’d become familiar with each of their faces. After discussing our long term goals of summer reading, we jumped straight into our activities. From stacking cups to braiding streamers we had a blast. After an hour, the kids relaxed and enjoyed some snacks. The whole purpose of today was to teach the kids to work together. 

It amazes me how much they learn and how quickly they do so. With a little observation they began to anticipate each other’s moves and correct their mistakes in order to win as a team.   

We invite you to join us on our adventures as interns and we hope that we can inspire others to continue learning throughout the summer. 

Until next time,