Librarian shares a wholesome story of a lost disabled woman considering library her 'safe place'

Being the abode of immeasurable knowledge and information, libraries shape minds and transform lives. Avid readers love the peace that the library environment offers and often prefer to spend their time reading there rather than in distracting surroundings. Though people entering the library have different kinds or genres of books in mind, they usually have a common purpose of reading or borrowing a book. But, as per David's (@schaalfan) post on X, this woman went to the library to get help as she considered it her "safe place."

David is a librarian based in Atlanta, Georgia who often shares interesting things that happen at his workplace on X. "Today a woman with developmental disabilities came into the library and said she was lost," David began his post. He added, "She didn't know her address, but her phone number was in her pocket on a piece of paper with Elmo on it." While this woman had clearly separated from her guardian and lost her way, she knew where to ask for help. David mentioned that she kept saying, "The library is a safe place." She was probably advised and taught by her guardians to always seek help in a library. 

David then called the phone number she carried in her pocket and was able to reach her guardian. "Apparently, this happens pretty regularly. They even stayed long enough for her to check out some new books and Sesame Street DVDs," wrote the librarian and added, "The library is a safe place indeed." Addressing all his patrons he wrote, "I don't have a SoundCloud, but I hope this tweet has reminded some of you to swing by your public library!" Since he posted this during the COVID-19 epidemic he added, "We're all doing the best we can with what we have. Stay safe and wear a mask whether a mask mandate is in place or not."

David's heartwarming post was received well by the audience and several users commented about people they knew who considered the library a safe space. One X user, @Amigo2Todos wrote, "What a heartwarming story. I grew up in a violent and chaotic home. For me, the library was my quiet childhood place to get homework done and just read. I hold a special affinity for libraries everywhere. The library is indeed a safe place. I am so glad that woman knows." @invysygoth wrote, "When I was a little girl the library was my safe place. God bless the library people who keep the lights on and books shelved for the rest of us." @ExUtahSports shared, "In all the years in which I've worked with kids who are either marginalized or have special needs, I can't think of one time that a library hasn't provided what was wanted or needed. It truly is a shelter from the storm."

Recently, David posted yet another heartening library incident and this time it involved a family. He wrote on X, "Family is huddled around a library computer and gushing over adoptable dogs before going to the shelter. I wish whatever dog they choose a happy gotcha day!" Being a librarian not only involves knowing about interesting books but also meeting interesting patrons like the ones David did.