Here we are, almost halfway through the summer, and I am not halfway through my reading list or my to do list! As usual, the casual living of summer has taken me out of routine and into the moment, which means that my best-laid plans are out the window as soon as a better opportunity comes along! Still, I have devoted part of every day to reading. Sounds easy for a librarian, right? Well, I should clarify. I have devoted part of every day to reading something adult and/or professional -- which is not always what I want to read. As I tell students and their parents, reading every day is the best way to keep the skills we have, but the only way to strengthen those skills is to read things that challenge us. So, this summer I am practicing what I preach. No, it isn't easy, and no, I don't really like it, but it is doable and I know it will pay off, because I already have a list of ideas to implement in the coming year.
I wonder how many of my students and fellow colleagues are practicing what we all preach -- to read throughout the summer? We all agree it is the best academic activity, yet so few actually follow through and do it. I know why -- because it is easier to do other, more fun, activities. It is easier to watch TV or to play video games than to put the time and effort into reading. So, I have made my reading a part of something I love to do -- which is sit on my deck in the cool of the morning, sipping some really wonderful coffee or tea, and enjoying the fresh air. Rather than taking my current novel, I take my current professional book or magazine outside with me. Here's hoping all my students and fellow teachers can find a way to make reading part of what is undoubtedly their favorite time of year -- summer.
