One of my favorite "true deep down" books is Missing May, a young reader's chapter book by Cynthia Rylant.  It's the story of twelve year old Summer, her Aunt May and Uncle Ob, who take her in when she is sent from relative to relative as though she was someone's "homework assignment".  Summer is made welcome and able to recognize and connect with the "lesson in love"  she has buried inside since the loss of her mother.

The books begin with May's death; Summer's memories light up the story, along with the pain of death and grief.  I thought of that book at the end of these past couple weeks that brought news of the loss of three area residents who each graced the Monterey Public Library with their presence.

One of the most important ways a public library serves its community is as a shared community space; a place for people old, young and in-between to gather, learn and seek respite, information and inspiration.  We welcome all, and encourage an ongoing relationship through all our services - programs for all ages, checking out and returning hundreds of thousands of books and other library materials per year and answering a multitude of questions every day.

Over the weeks and months of working at a public library, we come to know the Library's regular customers - by name, by reading preference, through their stories, joys and woes.  And when a familiar face isn't seen for a while, we can only wait to hear whether he or she will return.  Sometimes, we never know.  And sometimes, we read a familiar name in the newspaper obituaries, or hear from another customer, and know sadness.  

Marion S. Wilson's jaunty cap and beaming smile were a familiar sight over the years at the Library. We still expect her bright presence through the door, or on the phone.  Mr. Joe Pape, a Bookmobile customer at Park Lane, graciously posed for photos used on the Library's new Bookmobile, debuting last December.  His kind face is memorialized as the Bookmobile travels to parks, schools and neighborhoods, continuing the "door to door" service that he so appreciated.  

And for 17 years Martha Draper, former Assistant Librarian and Director of Public Relations for the Library, helped promote the Library's many services to the community.  She worked from 1961 to 1978, and laid the groundwork for the outstanding public relations program we have today.

As I write these words my mind is filled with faces and voices no longer here - customers, Board and Friends members, staff.  All are missed, and all have helped make the Library - and our city - a warmer, more colorful and vibrant shared place. For these everyday "lessons in love" and in community at the Library, I am truly grateful.