The Book Review Editor – Laura Roesch

I have fond memories of the first time I visited my junior high school library. All these years later, I can still vividly remember the subdued lighting, the high vaulted ceiling, and the school librarian shushing a boisterous group of seventh graders as they tromped across the hard tile floor. Rows and rows of books stood neatly in shelves stretching across the wide expanse of the room. A large shiny world globe, displayed on a low shelf in the entryway, waited to be explored. It was a quiet, peaceful, and cool oasis compared to the noisy chaos of the playground just beyond the front door. I have searched for photographs of that library, as I wonder how accurate my memory is. Libraries keep me spellbound. They hold so many stories, including their own. Author J.K. Rowling captures the essence of libraries in her beloved book, “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.” When in doubt, go to the library!
Admittedly, books are easily accessible online, however one consumes books. But there is something comforting and calming about spending time in a library. I was reminded of this recently while visiting a historic library in our area that dates back to 1887. Just an hour’s drive northwest of Panama City you will find a small picturesque wooden building that is home to the library of Walton-DeFuniak Springs. It has a particularly interesting history and I have documented my excursion to DeFuniak Springs on page 85 of this issue.
Do you remember your first visit to a library? What impressed you most? Libraries. Books. Truly, some of life’s sweetest pleasures. I look forward to hearing about your library memories.

Submit your book review for consideration to Laura@panamacityliving.com

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BONNIE BRANT

SPECIAL THANKS TO RICHARD DODD OF RELIANT SOUTH CONSTRUCTION GROUP FOR THE USE OF THEIR CORPORATE OFFICES FOR OUR PHOTOGRAPHY