To the editor:

Thank you to all the “magicians” on staff at Barrington Public Library for introducing me to programs on Zoom. Who knew how much pleasure you could still find, while under hiding from COVID-19. I kept my spirits strong this winter while attending several events for adults hosted by the library. 

In December it was Mindfulness for the Winter Solstice. Patricia McLaughlin shared ways to incorporate the breath and find “ease in the world.” She encouraged us to take some time each day for ourselves. 

In January I was moved by a film series called “Irresistible Beats and Melodies” with Prof. Tom Shaker. He had me singing and tapping my toes to the music of the past, coupled with amazing new information and challenging conversations with “real” people. What a warm, enthusiastic group of music and film buffs. The music documentaries can still be viewed on Kanopy—the library’s streaming service—including “Echo in the Canyon,” “We Like it Like That,” and “Rumble.” I’m looking forward to the next series of adventures selected by Prof. Shaker.

I joined East Bay Reads, a new book group dedicated to bringing together neighbors for meaningful conversations on the issues of race in America. Our first book was How to Be an Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi. The shared dialogue was a learning experience for all of us. Yes, it is not easy to look within, but I found the trip to be so worth it. It was truly a dichotomy of individuals, opening their minds, and listening completely. The next book in March is Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid. I look forward to meeting with everyone again.

In February came PURPLE. This short documentary film was screened virtually and followed by a facilitated community discussion. The film focused on the division in our country following the unprecedented events surrounding the 2016 election. In this program, we witnessed members of a rural community, come together to listen and learn from one another. We watched as they began to open their minds, and hearts, to those “who do not agree with them.” Afterwards, we moved into Zoom “breakout rooms” for our own neighborly discussion about our reactions to the film.

Thank you, Barrington Public Library! Despite this pandemic, you’ve showed us what has not changed at the library. You are still here for seniors like me, now offering us new ways to learn, grow, and engage.   

Merle “Magi” Green

Barrington