These last two years as the children’s librarian of the Litchfield Public Library have been full of joy, music, laughter, and so many smiles. I’ve been so fortunate to get to know wonderful families in this community and to provide them with opportunities for their kids to have fun. As I embark on a new career path, I’m grateful for the time I’ve had here. I wanted to highlight some picture books that reflect my thoughts and hopes for you all.

“Dare To Be Daring” by Chelsea Lin Wallace

Sometimes it’s hard to try new things. New foods, new playgrounds, new experiences can all give us butterflies in our tummies. But when we try new things, we can find out things about ourselves. In this story, kids try new things, and eventually, one is brave enough to go down the stairs into the basement.

I encourage all of you to try the new and kind of scary things. Whether it’s going down the big slide at the playground or singing a solo in front of a crowd, you might be nervous, but there’s a good chance you’ll feel so good and brave when it’s done. As Wallace writes in this book, “It’s our light that we shine that is daring. It glows when we set our fears free. So tomorrow, we’ll dare – our fears better beware as we shine for the whole world to see.”

“If You Run Out of Words” by Felicita Sala

This story is about a young girl seeking reassurance for her father’s attention. She worries that he will run out of words for her, but he soothes her with all the solutions of how he will never run out of love and words for her no matter what.

I don’t feel like I have many words for this time. I wish I had more things to say to all the amazing people I’ve met and served in this community. But even if I do run out of words, know that love can sometimes be very quiet.

Mayflies have a very short lifespan: just one day. In this story, a mayfly finds ways to enjoy his one wild and precious life. He soars to new heights, notices all the beauty in the world, but he also wishes to find someone to share it with. After a long and unsuccessful search, he finally runs into someone to share the rest of his life with.

I keep asking myself this question: how lucky am I? It reminds me of a quote from one of my favorite literary characters Winnie the Pooh, “How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” I’ve had the best time singing and dancing with kids, making and teaching crafts, giving young readers recommendations, helping teens find what they need, and helping all the library patrons get the best books. Thank you for the fun and the love that this community has shared with me. I will treasure it always.