For the Love of Librarians…

I was lucky enough to participate at a library panel in
Toronto last week. The panel was made up of five authors including me. We were
invited to come in and talk about crime fiction and writing. The sub-genres
ranged from thriller to cozy, and between us, there was a lot to talk about. The
library set up a nice long table for the panellists with a wireless microphone
for each, and a numbers of chairs for the audience to sit comfortably. The
evening went well and the audience seemed engaged. Afterwards, the librarian
thanked us for our time and efforts.

Since then I’ve been thinking about the role of librarians
in our culture. Librarians are unsung heroes of learning, education, and
literacy. Ever adapting to a changing world and the technological advancements
introduced almost daily, librarians are fearless. Plus, these real-life
superheroes are there to help writers succeed—they champion authors and books
and imagination.

For a writer, there is no better friend than a librarian.
They can introduce readers to your books. They can include your books in clubs,
conversations, or displays. They can help you succeed with encouragement,
support, and enthusiasm.

I’d like to send out a big thank you to all the librarians
whose efforts do not get recognized or celebrated enough. My favourite librarian
worked at the small elementary school in Edmonton, Alberta I attended in the
1980’s named Sweet Grass. She taught us the history of fine art, dared us to
push ourselves, and gave us the freedom to explore and enjoy the library and
everything in it. There was no better place to be.