It’s so easy to be distracted at home. You have the best intentions to work on your writing (or in your most recent Scribbly issue,) buuuttttttttttt then all sorts of things start to call to you: kids/partners wanting to know what’s for supper; the latest Netflix show; social media notifications; the pile of laundry; and the dishes everyone is avoiding. And before you know it – you haven’t written anything. There’s a simple and magical answer for you that’s close by. (And you probably haven’t visited it recently.) Your local library. A soulful and fun place to write; I kid you not.

Libraries are much different now than what you may remember. In most towns/cities, library cards are inexpensive and/or free. Many libraries have added layers of comfort: cozy chairs and nice lighting, tables, nooks to go hide-away in and maybe even a fireplace if you’re really lucky. The visitors are quiet and tend to whisper because library visitors are bookish people. There’s also the unexpected gift of all the books on the shelves sending their lovely energy to you. I bet you never thought about that.

Today, I wish I could be sitting in the magnificent Rose Room, of the New York Public Library on Fifth Avenue. It is one of my favorite places in the world. Sigh. However, today I’m headed to the small, local library a few blocks away to work on a new Scribbly. It has loads of windows, with beautiful sunlit corners and there’s a little spot I’m usually lucky to have to myself. I like to go at odd times when it isn’t busy – check the schedules to discover the best times for you. My little library doesn’t have the fancy NYPL library lion statues, Patience and Fortitude, but it does have wild geese flying overhead. And really helpful librarians. Book and writing joy can be found in the simplest places if you’re willing to look.

Now it’s your turn

Today or in the next few days – pop into your local library. If you don’t have a library card? Get one. Don’t drag your favorite latte in there either, as books and spilled coffee don’t go well together. Save that as a treat for after – when you reward yourself for writing in your new favorite writing spot.

*Would you love to write? Then check out Scribbly – my gentle and whimsical writing program that we snail-mail right to your house. Scribbly writers from three countries have fallen in love with writing!