When I first noticed the hours of operation for the public library I suspected it was a combination of an inefficient government budget and a reflection of the times the library is occupied. Not to mention that I assumed less and less people are using the library now that Borders and Barnes and Noble carry more up-to-date publications and allow you to lounge with a cup of coffee for hours.
As a matter of fact when I mention the public library people have no knowledge or interest. I am not surprised by this reaction. I lived in New York for eight years without ever applying for a library card. It would have done me little good considering that the library is only open during the hours of ten to five, and my work day was much longer.
So it was a shock to turn the corner from the bus stop this morning and see a group of at least a hundred people waiting for the library's open at noon. In silence they stood, all facing their goal, wishing for entrance. So as I watched ten slow minutes of time pass I began to question the hours of operation. I know that the idealized vision of Kaiser Permanente is not possible, but surely the library could open earlier on a Friday afternoon.
Sadly, here in the city pushing so mercilessly for free wireless internet, research is off-line.
We are sorry for the inconvience, but knowledge is closed.
