L: Libraries

L is for Libraries.

I say it a lot, and probably not often enough, but I love my library. Even if I'm always just a little short of mayorship. It's awesome.

The Howard County Library System has a number of branches, several of which are convenient either to where I live or along the routes I normally travel. They have an efficient, easy-to-use online request system which puts titles right at my fingertips. And the staff there are friendly and engaging - they notice when I check out stacks of books on a given topic (say, Bonnie and Clyde) and I've often had them ask questions or offer advice. One librarian even gave me encouragement as I checked out some writing books.

So not only does the library protect my wallet from my weakness for books, but it's always an enjoyable experience to just stop in and wander the stacks for a while.

Oh. And did I mention they have parties? Um... YES. 

That's right, Martinis. IN THE LIBRARY.
For SERIOUS. Taken at the 2011 Evening In The Stacks.

On to the more practical side of things... the libraries offer a huge range of programs. Coincidentally, Erinn at Something Else to Distract Me posted about some of them today. They offer regular events and classes for ALL ages. They are a hub of community outreach and education.

And... well, they're awesome, those library people. They do great things for our community - education, learning, resources, and a place to learn and explore are never wasted and (sadly) often not appreciated. Thank a Librarian today (or tomorrow... they might not appreciate a call at this hour).

L is for Libraries, some of the best places in The HoCo.

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This post is part of the A to Z Blogging Challenge. (hocoblogs@@@) Click on The Link for more info and other participating blogs!

CA Aquatics Master Plan

Next week - on Tuesday evening at The Other Barn and on Wednesday evening at The Hawthorne Center - Columbia Association's Aquatics Department will be holding Master Planning meetings. The purpose of these meetings is, essentially, to involve the community in the future of CA Aquatics. (my paraphrasing, the website says it better) (hocoblogs@@@)


There's even a video. And a flyer.


Now... to get some disclosures out of the way... I help train CA lifeguards. I am not connected to the Master Plan meeting, or the Master Plan, and this blog post (actually, my entire blog) contains my own opinions and thoughts and not that of CA/CA Aquatics or any past or present employers.


There, I think I covered all the bases. Whew.

Anyway, my opinion is this: you should go to a meeting.  And if you can't get to either meeting, check with the website and look for a recap of the discussion. Send your input to Aquatics. Let your voice be heard.


It's my opinion that access to pools is one of the many things that makes Columbia special. This isn't necessarily a 'luxury.' Access to a pool allows kids to get involved more easily in what's a life-saving skill. Swimming is a rewarding and healthy sport. It builds confidence and friendships, and activity - something that's really needed these days, what with global obesity rates.

2008 Obesity Rates in USA
From Epidemiology of Obesity.

Picture from WikiMedia Commons.
Used under Creative Commons and GFDL.

As a kid, I spent huge chunks of my summers at the pools. There was a community there - I had pool friends, did summer swim team things, etc. My best friend today is someone I met through CA Aquatics years ago. 


So is my nemesis. Hmm. Take note. ;)


Anyway, the Master Plan meeting is an opportunity to help the Aquatics department make sure that this fantastic resource is serving the community. Even if you've rarely used the pools in the past, consider going - tell them what you want to see, that would make you want to use the pool more frequently. And consider changing that pattern anyway. It's never too late, just take it one lap at a time!