Library Books

In ancient days, when I was young,

We borrowed books to read

From the local branch of the library;

Here’s how we would proceed:

 

We’d scan the shelves and make a choice

Then open to the back

Where there would be a pocket

To allow them to keep track

 

Of all the books checked out.

In every pocket was a card

With lines on which to write our names;

It wasn’t very hard.

 

We’d wait for the librarian

Who stamped a certain date

On both the card and pocket

When the loan would terminate.

 

She kept the card, we got the book

And when it was returned,

The card was then replaced, the perfect

Deal for all concerned.

 

If we were late, we paid a fine,

A lesson quickly taught

But hard to pass on down

Since all my grandkids’ books are bought.