Book 'Em, Danno

the travel section - originally uploaded by charsuede.

I do so love my Free Library of Philadelphia card. I got it about two and a half years ago after finding out about their sweet, sweet deal - if you live, work, go to school, or pay taxes in the city, you're in. For free. How crazy is that? I think it's so crazy that I actual donate money each year to be a "Friend" of my local branch (local to my work, that is). I also donate because the people at that branch are very cool and because anytime there's a budget shortage (and when isn't there a budget shortage?), someone wants to cut library funding.

So, I have a free pass to a great library system that I have borrowed about 100 books (and plenty of CD's, too) from and what do I go and do to repay this wonderful institution? I forget to renew my current read and receive my very first fine. This was a common occurrence for me as a kid (I once sold my bike to pay a library tab), but I've prided myself on never being on the Philly Library's naughty list. The single simoleon I was assessed as punishment is nothing compared to the shame with which I must now live.

What can I say? Thanksgiving came and I complete forgot to renew Misfortune, which is a good book so far but is taking me forever to get through - it's not an easy read and I've been a little busy with the shopping and the decorating and the swearing and the cookie planning (still time to get your recipe in). Perhaps the holiday season wasn't the best time to read a 500-page novel about a 19th-century boy being brought up by his royal parents as a girl. Hmmm.

And the worst part? One less thing I get to be self-righteous about. Dang.

Comments

[Janie]

You sold your bike to pay a library fee???

I'm surprised you didn't sell your baseball glove instead...

[Donna]

I don't remember that bike sale either? What kind of fine did you run up that you had to sell your bike? Sheesh, who were your parents???

You can go right on feeling self righteous...I'm pretty sure the girls and I are on the banned list from the Burlington County Library. I find it cheaper to BUY the damn books.