A Librarian's Open Shelf: Essays on Various Subjects

In this lively collection, a seasoned librarian turns his keen eye beyond the stacks to explore a range of everyday curiosities. From the quirks of borrowing patterns to the surprising ways people engage—or fail to engage—with books, each essay blends observation, modest data, and a dash of humor. The opening piece, “Do Readers Read?” uses the tale of a diligent borrower who never finishes a single volume to question whether our library patrons truly read at all.

The author’s method is simple yet inventive: by tracing circulation records of multi‑volume works, he reveals a steady drop‑off in readership as books progress, hinting at deeper issues of interest, duty, and the fragmented attention fostered by modern media. Throughout, the essays invite listeners to reconsider assumptions about literacy, the purpose of libraries, and how we might rekindle genuine curiosity. Whether you’re a library professional or a casual reader, the reflections offer both insight and gentle amusement.