Haven

Feeling extra happy : ) I just started my new job, but it's not the main reason why. It's because I found a great place to spend my break time everyday. 

On my first day of work, during lunch break, i decided to walk around my workplace to familiarize myself with the other structures and buildings. On the left side of the health center where i work is the post office. Across from the post office is the gymnasium. On the left side across from the gymnasium is the municipal hall. On the right side of the gymnasium is the playground. And on the left side of the health center is the public library. 

The library. When i saw it, i felt like I've been looking for it for a long time. And that i finally found it.

I felt the urge to enter. At first I was hesitant to open the door. I peeked to see if there was somebody inside. But it seemed like no one’s around. When I opened the door, I smelled the old books at once. And the smell of dust. It was very quiet. I walked consciously so as not to make any sound. Then I heard soft footsteps coming from somewhere. It was the librarian, a very kind old lady with short nearly-gray hair and small glasses. She was wearing a pink shirt, the same shirt that my seniors were wearing at the health center. I thought maybe they’re wearing the same uniform because they are all government workers distributed to different departments and areas in town. 

‘’Good afternoon ma’am”, I said as I bowed my head. 

“Hello! Welcome.” She smiled.

Can I use the library? I smiled back shyly.

“Sure you can.” She said. “If you’re not here, we have nothing to do.”

“Thank you.”

“Just write your name in the log book first.” She added.

“Okay ma’am. Thank you.”


It seemed like the library hasn't been used for quite some time. I couldn't help but smile. “Why did I find you only now?” I wondered. 

The place looked very old. But it was very neat and organized. There was a different aura probably brought by the smell of old books, the way they looked untouched, the stillness, and the empty seats and tables, the light reflecting on the glass windows. I fell in love with it. “From now on, I will be spending some time here, an hour every day, for six months. Or always. Forever.” I thought to myself.