One of my favorite places to be is in a library! Big or small, grand or humble, I see libraries as the heart of a community, a place where possibilities are endless and the world awaits. Yesterday, I had the pleasure of visiting one of the libraries in the Carroll and Madison Library System. After I was invited to participate in the Books in Bloom Literary Festival, the  St. Paul (AR) Public Library’s book club chose my book, Deadly Ties, for their July reading and invited me to visit. What an honor!

Who would expect that a tiny community tucked away in the Ozark Mountains, with a population of just 113 people, would have a vibrant library of its own? The Library Director, Bonnie Rodgers, has created a warm, welcoming place for readers of all ages. The interior space has been very cleverly used, and a covered porch invites patrons of all ages to come enjoy this jewel of a library. I had a delightful time browsing the shelves and discovering new books about the Ozark region. Lots of informative posters, handouts, and–a surprise–a lovely collection of photographs of barns and Ozark landscapes.

And the book club? A wonderful group! Great questions, engaging conversation, and a shared love of reading–who could ask for more? They were a marvelous audience and I’m already looking forward to my next visit.