1 post tagged “library”
I used to work for the SWGRL or Southwest Georgia Regional Library (for those on the outside). I can say that while you aren't going to retire a rich man by working there, coming home and feeling like you've made a difference is priceless. There are many stories (as there usually are when dealing with the public) that I remind myself of from time to time.
One involves this girl I knew that would come in with her family, or rather her mother and grandmother. I became friends with all of them, as I did with most people who would come in and not give me attitude or try to steal or perform any other unlawful act. The family even went so far as to give me a Christmas card during the holiday season. I think the reason they were so nice to me is that the granddaughter who was (I believe) 15 years old, obviously had a crush on me. She was a sweet girl too, very straight and to the point. I could never put my finger on what was wrong with her, but she had some sort of disability. It wasn't the kind you could see on the surface. While I can't say she always came in to use the library for what it was there for, she didn't cause trouble and when the three of them would come in, and they usually came together or not at all, she was pleasant to be around. I will never forget what she told me one day, or rather asked me; "Gene, are you being have?" That cracks me up to this day and I use that line from time to time, although no one usually gets it and for good reason.
I was stopping by the office in Bainbridge to go to the beach for July 4, and I paused for traffic on Shotwell Street. While waiting for cars to pass, I happened to look over to my right and noticed 2 people walking on the sidewalk. It took me a few seconds to realize it was the girl and her grandmother, and I'm sure they were returning from the library. After it came to me who they were I smiled at her. She looked back, but with a scowl that needed no explanation of her emotions. I don't believe she recognized me. It has been over 3 years since she has seen me or heard from me. But what saddens me is that the girl (who can't be over 18) is now pregnant. Here is a girl who doesn't have the capacity to make decisions for herself, and she has become pregnant. Who will raise this child? The girl didn't have the capacity to work a job, she has a mental disability, so who does it fall back on? The mother and grandmother were financially able. How did this girl put herself in a situation where she could get pregnant? So many questions...
