The library is a nostalgic place. It is full of wistful mysterious romance, evocative, and merry. It is a reflective space where people from many different walks of life come through the doors to learn. The library has been a part of Barry Forsyth's life in a variety of ways. From his first job in 1972 to today, his love and respect for the library is something he holds close and shares with others.
"In 1972 my first job was with the Local LA County Library. My parents were ahead of their time, eggheads, and wanted to help people through intellectual endeavors; which is why they wanted me to get a job at the library. This was my first introduction to the library, but this experience established my admiration for the library, creating a lasting impression. During this time, I served as an elevator monitor, fed the fish in the library aquarium, and assisted with audio visual equipment and it was a thrill.
In the mid 80s I was a certified Handwriting Analyst, living in Carlsbad. A librarian was interested in my expertise on this subject, challenging me to give a talk at the library. Accepting her challenge, I was featured in the newspaper, with an article written about my skill and for the first time in my life, I spoke in front of 90 people about handwriting analysis. This was certainly the highlight of my experiences with the libraries.
When I moved to Santa Cruz in 1989, I moved about a week before the earthquake. My first housemate was a retired librarian and self-described bibliophile (his apartment was full of books), and he had a profound influence on me. He advised me that whenever I go to the library to tell the librarians, in person, how much I appreciate them. I still miss Fred, a Librarian who retired from the Downtown branch and I appreciate Angel who is helpful, caring, and knowledgeable.
Today, when I go to the library, it is the quiet and peaceful place where I can take in knowledge; even when it gets noisy. Over the years, through the process of moving, I lost a poem which was about the library and very special to me. I still look for it and I think I saw a copy of it at the Downtown branch about 20 years ago. The library is a sanctuary and a great escape. The library is my church, a spiritual sanctuary. "
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