Libraries have always held a sense of wonder and adventure for me—the chance to discover new worlds, live vicariously through a range of characters (both good and bad), and to be taken on a journey like no other. I’ve always admired the people who work in these magnificent institutions as their love for the written word is as intense as mine.
Over the years I’ve met librarians who have enthusiastically helped me with research, recommended new authors to read, and ensured my kids have the same wondrous experiences as I’ve had within the walls of the library.
So it was with great pleasure that I participated in my very first library event as a published author this week. The event coincided with Valentine’s Day and I was fortunate to be presenting with the wonderful Fiona Lowe–a multi-published and award-winning author who is experienced with library appearances and did a fabulous job of trying to calm my nerves (of which there were many).
Our chosen topic, Romance Fiction Is Like A Box Of Chocolates, concentrated on the various genres of romance. To sweeten the deal (pun intended!), we discussed the sub-genres of romance and likened to them to specific chocolate flavours. The audience got the opportunity to taste an array of chocolate as well!
Despite the shaking hands I managed to get through my part of the talk and when I saw the nodding heads and smiling faces, I remembered these people had chosen to be here because they love books and they love libraries—they weren’t relatives I’d collared in to coming along to make up numbers. As soon as the realisation hit, I relaxed and one hour felt like five minutes.
I had to pinch myself a few times as I’ve attended numerous library author events over the years and always dreamed of one day having my own. Thanks to Geelong Regional Libraries, and in particular Waurn Ponds Library, I finally realised that dream this week.
Yes, today is Valentine’s Day, but it’s also a recognised day for celebrating another kind of love—for libraries. So to all the people who work in libraries around the world, thank you from the bottom of my heart. I love what you do and the care and love with which you do it because without libraries, our curiosity wouldn’t be sparked, our emotions wouldn’t be challenged, and our quest for knowledge wouldn’t be fulfilled.
And yeah, I heart libraries.
Special thanks to Waurn Ponds Libraries for the photos.
Today I’m super excited to reveal the Serbian cover of Luna Tango (Australian/NZ edition) which is also called Midnight Serenade (USA/Canada/UK edition). I love how the publishers in the different territories I’m published in put their own spin on covers and titles – it’s always a surprise to see what they come up with!
Alli Sinclair 