When my daughter Riley and I started this library journey, eight or nine months ago, I truly thought I would write entertaining and engaging posts about each library we visited.

Well, let’s just say I am lucky to get something — anything — written down. Descriptions of the libraries and the many books we check out have become more brief, and it is amazing that we have been to as many branches as we have (24/72!)

Life is complicated and busy, and then add in library visits across the Los Angeles area, and well, it gets to be even more like a juggling act.

I say all of this because, I really wish I could spend more time writing better blog posts — I am so tired by the time I sit down to write them, that it does not always happen. However, the whole aim of this journey is to enjoy libraries and picture books with my daughter, and hopefully encourage other people to enjoy their local libraries as well.

Reading out loud to Riley is the best part of my day. Seeing her take a blanket, pillow, stuffed animal and one of her books into a corner of the house — to sit and look at the pages with such wonder, makes me overcome with joy.

So, I guess I just wanted to say, that I love going on this public library journey and am glad there’s a little paper (blog) trail that Riley can look at one day to encourage her (and other children and adults!) to read even more. Her story is just beginning and there are so many great, diverse stories to inspire her.

I was at the American Speech and Hearing Association conference last week, attending sessions on literacy, and was reminded what an amazing power it is to read. I am thankful and grateful to the Los Angeles Public Libraries. Thank you, libraries.