This post is the first in a series highlighting libraries we discover along America's Great Loop. Read about more libraries we've found along our journey by visiting the Captain's Logs tagged "Libraries on the Loop."

Libraries hold a special place in our hearts. They are more than just buildings filled with books; they are portals to new worlds, gateways to knowledge, and catalysts for growth.

In the digital age, having a dedicated space for books may seem outdated, but the value it adds to our lives is immeasurable. Our home library (the Howard Miller Public Library in Zeeland, MI) is more than just a collection of books; it's a haven for discovery and imagination. It is a constant reminder that reading is not just a task but an adventure waiting to be launched.

The library in our hometown is one of our favorite places to go. We would hop on our bikes or take a long walk to our small downtown area and visit 3 main places: the game shop, the library, and the local brewery (a nice spot to appreciate a conversation or dive into the books we just picked up while enjoying a snack and a drink!).

When the kids were old enough, they got their library cards. We helped them learn who the librarians were. Ewan and Gwynnie quickly realized that the library staff was vital to find books and DVDs that held all kinds of stories they enjoyed. They learned not only to enjoy exploring all the media available but also independence, responsibility, and communication skills as they worked with librarians to find specific books or describe what they liked and didn't like about stories they'd read.

As our kids grow, so does their love for reading. Through the pages of books, they travel to far-off lands, meet extraordinary characters, and continue to learn life lessons through stories. They discover the power of empathy, the beauty of diversity, and the strength of imagination. Reading is a vessel for personal growth and a catalyst for understanding the world around them.

The librarians at home (and other libraries we've visited) would always listen and talk with shared excitement about the newest Pokémon books, point out book series that featured adventurous cats, and help guide the kids through questions (about stories, community events, rules, and more!) and what to do when a book was lost.

Our home library also became a valuable resource for learning beyond the confines of traditional education. Whether it was for homeschool projects or personal interests, our kids found a wealth of information at their fingertips. The library is a sanctuary of knowledge and empowers them to learn more about anything that piques their interest.

Ewan has done research for several projects in the past couple of years of homeschooling. He looked at the benefits of swimming, the impact on kids who are learning to sail, what is involved in rock climbing, and what makes a balanced school lunch. Gwynnie has researched the benefits of pets on your mental and physical health, the impact of nutrition and exercise on your muscles and bones, and the benefits of swimming. The library provided us with books to search and read, help in finding more books unavailable locally through the inter-library sharing program, and rooms for them to record video clips for their final projects.

One of the most beautiful aspects of our home library was the sense of community it fostered. The librarians became trusted friends, guiding our kids to new stories and authors that would capture their imaginations. Our kids bonded with these librarians, eagerly sharing updates on their lives and receiving personalized book recommendations in return. The library became a place of connection, where stories were shared, and friendships were forged.

Our home library has been an integral part of our family's journey. It has nurtured a love for reading, instilled values of independence and responsibility, and provided a nurturing environment for our children to grow. We are grateful for the experiences and memories created within the walls of our library. As we continue our Great Loop Adventure, we carry the spirit of our home library with us, knowing that wherever we go, the joy of reading will always be by our side.

Now we have a small collection of books on the boat with us, and Ewan and Gwynnie have access to our library back home on their tablets. They can check out books online, download, and enjoy. But there's still something comforting about flipping through paper pages and getting time away from screens. So we still seek out physical libraries as we travel.

Remember, dear Fika Crew, that libraries are not mere buildings filled with books; they are magical realms waiting to be explored. So take the time to discover your local library, create your personal book haven, and embark on unforgettable literary journeys.

Happy reading!