libraries...

the mentioning of the word library could conjure up different memories for each of us. the late nights racing through exam revisions, or the many hours spent searching for references, or the endless queues to the xerox machines... despite all that academic tedium, which we sometimes go through, i am sure i am not the only one who find myself drawn to libraries for the occasional good read, or that random find, or simply a good place to hide and be lost in its peaceful surroundings.

thinking of library also reminded me of the book thief's stints in the mayor's house library, which went spectacularly 'unnoticed'... it was a wonderful read, and *touchingly* written from an interesting point of view... death's library of humanity.

other reasons why people visit the library might be because it is not just a place for bibliophiles, but for those who are fascinated by the architecture and beauty rendered in the designing of libraries.

this weekend, i was at the James J Hill Reference Library in St Paul for a wedding reception... one would never have imagined that a peaceful place like the library could be a place you'd transform for a banquet... but it was a splendid venue for the occasion. the backdrop of floor-to-ceiling high bookshelves filled with troves of words... the subdued lighting... the grand pillars. what a refreshing contrast to the window-less hotel venues... i am certain many friends i know would probably love to do the same in some other beautiful library for their special day.

boy! ... i reckoned that there will be more library-adventures to discover... or other transformations of 'traditional' places that might be making their popularity quotient in the trend-setting!