Barrie Summy

I've always been a bit surprised that I didn't grow up to be a librarian.

I'm very comfortable in a library. Which makes total sense because I've spent a lot of time in them. We went very regularly when I was a child. And I was allowed to ride my bike or walk to the bookmobile which parked in the elementary school parking lot once a week (on Saturdays, I think.) I loved the stacks and studying in a carrel when I was in college. I still go to the library to borrow books and sometimes to write. In fact, I'd write there more often if it weren't for that pesky no-eating-and-no-drinking rule.

Anyway, I don't remember even considering librarian as a career option. Possibly a mistake. I think I would've made a decent librarian. Once I managed to control my chattiness.

All this lead-in to say that I do love a library author visit. Last week, I was at the Santee Public Library, which is my home library. So, I feel particularly at ease here. I've brought kids to this branch for storytime, done research, talked lots with the librarians, paid a small fortune in overdue fines.

I had a great time on a panel with three Young Adult authors: Cindy Pon, Megan Whalen Turner and
Laura Preble. Actually, I had a REALLY great time. I think I was the last to leave.

(left to right) Cindy Pon, Megan Whalen Turner, me, Laura Preble

The visit was set up to honor the library's volunteers. Here's a blog post by one of the honoree's, Roseann.

My next big library visit is June 28 at the Rancho Santa Fe branch, promoting I So Don't Do Makeup. The library is bringing in a makeup artist for the event!!! Should be another fun visit.

Anyone else out there who's surprised they didn't wind up in a particular profession?