Posted on July 12, 2011
Large white tapered pillars support the upper level of the Selby Public Library in downtown Sarasota. The pillars create a shaded arcade on all four sides of the building. Near a side entrance that overlooks a small park is a lifesize bronze sculpture of a boy reading with his dog beside him on the bench. It is a romantic image inviting one to enjoy the adventure of books.
On many days there are also flesh and blood readers sitting or leaning in the shade of those large pillars — perhaps waiting for the library to open, or just enjoying the shade. Appearing somehow less romantic, one wonders if any of these readers are the literate homeless and unemployed.