After two years of planning, the Fox Cities Book Festival was held this weekend.  Almost every event had more people than we expected.  It was a wonderful testament to the power of poetry and books in people’s lives. 

For me, every event I attended was magical, imbued with wonder and joy.  One event that I helped most with was a children’s area at the Book Fair where School Specialty donated children’s books for us to simply give away to children who came in.  The books were lovely, shiny, new and so were the children who came in.

What joy to be able to tell people that they could have a book to keep.  Just because of someone’s generosity, because they cared, and because we care.  It was a powerful message and I just couldn’t get tired of delivering it over and over again.

But what I loved most was seeing the people.  As a library director, I don’t get to interact with people as much as I used to.  And I miss it.  This weekend taught me that.  Demonstrated the power of small connections over books, and immersed me in a joyous day of giving and thanks.

What a treat to be a part of the Festival.  What a treat to know that I helped make it possible.  Helped create conversation, wonder.  And what a treat to be gifted with that day.