As a child I had all my sister's and brothers' old books - but they weren't enough to quench my thirst for literature. My parents and older siblings had a hard job reading to me - Antti even recorded one of the most interesting stories for me. I had learned many stories by heart but still wanted to hear them again and again. When I myself learned to read I still wanted just to listen - even when I could read faster than Mum.
The first library I met was the mobile library of Kangasala. Once a week it visited Pikonlinna and my family used to borrow books regularly. There was only one requirement for getting a library card: the card-owner-to-be had to be able to sign the card himself. At the age of four I was able to write my own name and finally got my very own library card. "Can I now borrow as many books as I want?" It was a very strong feeling - maybe a feeling of freedom or independence, maybe just excitement, maybe even a little fear when I myself was now responsible for all the books I borrowed.
When I started going to school I noticed that the huge public library was on the road home. Once I stepped in, I was bound to miss the bus - and another bus. Finally, when the library was closed at 8 pm, I had to leave and take a bus home. I usually had my rucksack full of books when I got home, tired and very hungry - perhaps I hadn't eaten anything for nine hours.
I have stayed in libraries for such a long time that I take their existence for granted. I have always been able to go and find a suitable book for my needs, and do all this free of charge. If a particular book isn't available in Kangasala Public Library, I can always go and seek it in Tampere Public Library or the University Library of Tampere. Library books can give at least some knowledge of every subject I am interested in.
So, once again I walk up those steps and open the door. My nose is filled with the scent of all the old books waiting for me...