Librarian on Fire

iValue: How the Top 10 Principles of Strong Brands can change your library

2011-04-07T21:49:00.000-07:00

For those of you who haven't gone to the library in awhile, or those that can't fathom the last time you had a card, take a moment to ask yourself, what gives? With the possibility of a government shutdown, people are pinching pennies these days, looking for ways to save that extra buck. Since you're most likely a taxpayer to some library, I advise you (if you haven't already) to take advantage of free services that are already yours. With tons of new gadgets and classes, libraries are changing. That means you should go!

From whatever perspective you hold, here's a look at how retailers capture the attention of consumers. Without a doubt, libraries could learn a thing or two. Here's the first tip:

"While a company’s brand offers a clarifying perspective on how to get the most out of the existing store base, it also gives a company creativity,imagination, and opportunity for innovation--the kinds of things that give shoppers more reason to attach to a brand and increase their perception of its value. A brand with high emotional value is a brand invested in. The nature of retail demands creative momentum. It’s time to put innovation plans back on the table."

So dear readers, I ask you to please think about these rhetorical questions, think about your library, and take them to heart.

From LJ's Bubble Room Blog and Interbrand 2011, The Top 10 Principles of Strong Brands are:

1) Clarity: What does the brand stand for? How can it target different audiences? Does it emphasize customer insights and plans for the future?

Example: Banana Republic-They have a consistent design aesthetic and a five-year vision on their website to emotionally engage their customers. While most libraries have this stated somewhere, I'm sure there's a huge population lingering out there somewhere.

2) Authenticity: Internal truth and capability.

Example: Lululemon stays true to its yoga-friendly roots but expands its philosophy to a broader audience. In their handbook they value greatness, saying, “We create the possibility of greatness in people because it makes us great. Mediocrity undermines greatness.” While their products are for athletes, a lof of people who hold the same value can not help but be drawn to the brand, as they see it as an extension of themselves. While there's this stigma about libraries, it's possible that the 21st century library can change with its community. Give them something to identify with, after all, they're the ones paying for it.

3) Relevancy: How the brand fits in with the consumer needs, desires, and decisions across all relevant demographics and geographies.

Example-L'Occitane does an amazing job of creating a sense of urgency and excitement to people of all ages. Fresh displays, customer engagement and mobile apps that keep the brand flourishing. <--- great ideas

4) Differentiation: How the customers see the brand as different from the competitor

Example: Anthropologie's atmosphere and its bohemian aesthetic are unique. On top of that, no two stores are alike. From experience, I know only a handful of libraries that are different enough to make me say, "wow." What's more, didn't we learn the impact of first impressions? Time to think twice here.

5) Commitment: Incorporates internal commitment, investment, time, and energy to the brand.

6) Protection: The security it has across different platforms.

7) Responsiveness: Able to market changes, challenges, and opportunities. It should have a sense of leadership internally and the ability to constantly evolve and renew itself.

Example: Amazon! The company owns several patents on key technological ideas and is always on the search for the next great thing. Amazon.com develops whole businesses where it sees the need (e-book publishing, auction house competition for eBay, cheaper print- on-demand publishing, website, and data hosting). Learn something new every day, and try to share what you learn.

8)Consistency:Experienced without fail across platforms

9) Presence: Omnipresent and talked about positively

Example: Whole Foods Market. Everyone nationwide loves them for their cheaper prices and stores nationwide. They're also creating rooms for jobs by opening more stores.

10) Understanding: The brand is recognizable, has distinct qualities, and people have in-depth knowledge about what it offers.

-I think this is one of the most important things for people to take into consideration. So many people don't know about the library or what it has in store for you today. A lot of great classes are out there and on the websites, but people don't start at the library's web page. They start at Google (and get info from social media sites). Share what you know. After all, if people don't know, they won't go.

Wow!Lots to think about...take a deep breath! And Happy Thinking!

“I’d be happy if I could think that the role of the library was sustained and even enhanced in the age of the computer.”
--Bill Gates

Be the change. Advocating on every level.

2011-03-30T15:59:00.000-07:00

Following librarian-inspired blogs can be inspirational for working librarians in the blogosphere. With so many energetic ideas and conversation starters about transliteracy and how to incorporate it in libraries, it’s too enticing to pass up. This dynamic can be a tricky one to mimic though. For the unemployed, librarians in different institutions, or those that fall short of having decision-making power, where do they fit in?

How I became a library advocate

When budget cuts and freezing jobs at hand did not stop me from the overall picture of learning to fundraise for libraries, some thought I was insane). I on the other hand thought it was a great idea, and knew I had to follow my gut instinct. Libraries nationwide need it, and librarians need to have that skill. So on I went.

Down this road I started reading blogs from Ned Potter, Bobbi Newman, David Lee King and the authors of Libraries & Transliteracy. I eventually felt helpless, thinking there’s no way I could do anything to help pave the way for libraries, but in time I realized how absurd that sounded. There’s plenty a person can do. Especially a librarian. From the Libraries & Transliteracy blog--the following is etched in my mind:

Make your library a place that....

Encourages conversation
-Invites participation
-Provides creative outlets
-Embraces alternative learning styles
-Tells stories

Starting something new

With this surfacing each day on my bulletin board at work, it was only a matter of time before the universe threw me a loop where I became inspired to start my very own book club and story corner at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Grand Rapids. Telling stories and conveying book themes through collage, video, posters, and artwork hits home for these kids. They’re conversing, participating, being creative, and telling stories in so many ways. What’s the different between the face of a new kind of library and a place for imagination? They’re the same if I might say so.

Even so, I love what I do-I get to raise money so these kids can have better programs--a better “library” so-to-speak, where they can be creative with books and technology, get off the streets, and teach each other something new. They absolutely love going to the library, and are begging me to take them. Let’s teach them something new!

Look at libraries with new perspective

Overall, not working in a library is the perfect opportunity (and excuse) to look at it from the users perspective. Granted, if you work at a library you should know your user community, but sadly, some don’t.

Today I had to return a few things at the local library and wondered how many librarians are on board with transliteracy. How many librarians (and libraries) in the community have banded together to change the face of who walks through the doors and for what purpose. And finally, how many librarians have reached out to people after their 9-5 or whatever is done?

Say something

Analyzing libraries from a new perspective really has taught me how to speak up and advocate for my favorite place in the community. Word-of-mouth is okay, but even more has to be done. Here's a few things we can do:

-Write a letter to the editor,
-Start an advocacy committee
-Communicate with key officials
-Vote
-Keep informed about funding, censorship, internet filtering, and information literacy
-Educate others

Be positive.

"Be the change you want to see in the world."Mahatma Gandhi

@shten

Cat lady librarian? Better check your stereotype.

2011-03-25T17:36:00.000-07:00

For those of you who have checked out the "Meet the Librarian" section of this blog, or have perused my Facebook to see a picture of me with my cat, Lucy, it's no wonder I've been called a crazy cat lady librarian. I practically beg to be picked on with that photo.

That aside, I don't think liking cats and being a librarian should be a new stereotype. We have enough already: mysterious librarian, trendy librarian, sexy librarian, uptight broad....the list goes on. Most of these aren't bad (the uptight broad is a misunderstanding), yet somehow it seems insulting to add in another stereotype where instantaneously and coincidentally a librarian with a cat is deemed an intelligent loner with nothing else to do but surround him or herself with animals all day. It's absurd.

Mingling with librarians, however, you'd find we're quite different from our stereotypical selves. At the 2010 PLA Conference in Portland, Oregon I was absolutely blown away by the reality of it all. I came to understand that we are a quirky, intellectual, and eclectic bunch, who, as you many know, like to dance, socialize, talk about library culture, and all the other things that go with it. Coincidentally, we usually all get along. Referring back to the cat conversation, however, I'm not sure we'd all agree about liking these furry creatures. So, for those "crazy cat lady librarian" types, here you have it-something multifunctional and modern: a cat bookshelf. It's perfect-no. pun. intended.

Note to seekers

2011-03-22T19:43:00.000-07:00

Photo originally taken from Tame the Web

Teen Advocacy Video Project

2011-03-22T12:24:00.000-07:00

Last November I took into consideration the current budget crisis affecting libraries nationwide, and decided to temporarily switch gears. Learning a new skill, I joined AmeriCorps *VISTA where I currently write grants for Boys & Girls Clubs in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Needless to say, I feel good at the prospect of learning something so valuable that will benefit libraries when they need it most, though I miss working in one. Don't get me wrong, I love writing grants to create better programs for inner-city youth, and just because I'm a grant writer doesn't mean I'm restricted on any one platform for advocating library services. That's the natural fanatical attitude I have about the profession.In the past month I have taken on a project with a colleague of mine incorporating reading into BGCA programming (currently no such program exists). Surprising! Inspired by Michele Gorman, I want to create a video similar to the one created for YALSA contest and send it to BGCA, making reading a mandatory program in every Club environment. I don't think I can think big enough.

-@shten

Surrounding yourself with passionate people

2011-03-22T08:34:00.000-07:00

The post from the blog "zen habits" says it all. Personally, and professionally, it's important to surround yourself with people that will help you grow. I hope you enjoy it, for I couldn't help but share it with you

"Last night I had an amazing dinner with my wife Eva and my friends Scott and Jesse and their wives Chelsea and Joanna.
The gathering itself was simple: six people, simple healthy food, a little wine, a little tea, nothing else. Except that we lost ourselves in conversation so deeply that before we knew it, it was 1:30 a.m. and I was shocked at how quickly the time had passed.

The secret is also simple: when you talk with people who are passionate about what they’re doing, passionate about life and the people they love, it is transformative.

The people I talked with last night are incredibly passionate about what they’re doing. And yes, Brett, I mean passionate: excited, fired-up, feeling-strongly-about, thinking-about-it-all-the-time, can’t-wait-to-do-it-when-you-wake-up passion. When you talk with people who are passionate like that, you can’t help but get fired up yourself. You want to go out and do something exciting.

Passionate people not only inspire you, they give you ideas. They read books by other people who are passionate and full of ideas, and they recommend the books to you or pass the ideas on to you. Scott and Jesse, for example, are constantly meeting other passionate people, and that inspires them … and in turn that inspires me. It’s fuel for an intense fire.A nice side benefit is Scott & Chelsea and Jesse & Joanna are some of the most health-conscious people I know — the dinner was extremely healthy and delicious, and I went away even more inspired to get fit and live a healthy life. I love people like that.

I’ve met a lot of passionate, smart, inspired people since moving to San Francisco — people like Tim Ferriss and Matt Mullenweg and Tynan and Corbett Barr and Oleg and Barron and more. It’s incredible to talk with people like that, and you can’t walk away from them without getting a bit revved up.

While I try to lead a life of minimalism, I’ve learned that minimalism can be done anywhere you go … and it doesn’t require that you move to a farm or give up your contact with people. Just the opposite: minimalism is about giving up consumption in favor of doing things you’re passionate about and having real relationships with a few people you really value. I’d much rather have a conversation with someone doing something amazing than go shopping.

You don’t have to live in a big city like New York or San Francisco to surround yourself with passionate people. They’re in small towns, but it might take a bit of looking to find them. Find small businesses who are doing amazing things, and talk with the people there. Look for startups, for artists and writers, for people who are obsessed with doing something really well.

If you can’t find them where you live, find them online. They’re everywhere if you look. Read books by people full of powerful ideas who are doing innovative things. Read their blogs, talk to them via email and Twitter. Start collaborating with people like that.

Be one of them, and inspire others."
—

@shten

My Mantra is:

2011-03-21T08:14:00.000-07:00

Libraries have been and continue to transform themselves to be responsive to the needs of the populations they serve.

-ALA President Roberta Stevens

7 reasons people don’t use twitter, and why ‘It’s a conversation’ is the answer to all of them

2011-03-21T07:58:00.000-07:00

In earlier posts I introduced the Wikiman Ned Potter and his mesmorizing presentation The Time is NOW. Thinking back, did I honestly think he'd stop after that slideshow? Not a chance! Recently, I've seen him do it again, only this time discussing the benefits of Twitter as means of initiating conversation. Yes, I admit, I never was a fan of the social networking site, but recently I have found it to be a brilliant tool for connecting with library users worldwide and keeping up with new ideas. The Wikiman is on to something...so check out this presentation. And, if you are so inclined, take it beyond Twitter to engage those that are easily repulsed by the thought of using. Otherwise, enjoy!

7 Reasons People Give For Not Using Twitter And Why They Can All Be Rebuffed With The Phrase: It's a Conversation

View more presentations from Ned Potter.

MIT: Reinventing the 21st Century Research Library

2011-03-19T19:20:00.000-07:00

In addition to the YOUmedia Chicago video and the recent HarperCollins debate, this video taken from MIT TechTV is an innovative way to mix old school library practices with the latest technologies. As I'm slowly helping BGC develop a young reader's program, I know for a fact how important it is to meet users where they are. Beyond the gadgets, they're the brains for idea growth. Watch the video and see where I'm going with my librarian self (so exciting!)

Ready, Set, Vote!

2011-03-19T19:15:00.001-07:00

It has come to my attention that the polls are now open for the 2011 ALA Election. This your reminder...go vote!

The Time for Libraries is NOW

2011-03-19T19:14:00.001-07:00

Reposted from Bobbi Newman, aka Librarian by Day, the slideshow Time is Now, by Wikiman Ned Potter is the perfect way to start persuading people how the library is a useful (and very current) place to be. It seems like a day doesn't go by where I ask, "Do you ever go to the library for that?" and somebody responds, "No, who wants to read books?"

....It happens more often than you can imagine....sigh...

But little do they know, libraries offer more than just books.

One of my personal goals this year is to create something similar for people outside the library-blogosphere. But really, I would love collaboration on this. It would be powerful if librarians joined together to promote awareness for services that are applicable to the average person and their needs.

For librarians, we know patrons fight computer limitations. Instead of focusing on limitations, let's host classes for other platforms (social media, loading music onto iPods, how to create a podcast, etc). If you're a librarian that provides access to newer technologies, I'm sure there is a huge population that wants to check out out the e-readers, ipods, etc. but doesn't know how to use it. Point is, if people know they can come to the libraryto learn about these things, the demand will be greater.

By recruiting patrons and hosting web classes on newer technologies, we could host forums where patrons teach their friends, family and community what they want to learn. This gives patrons a sense of ownership, allowing them to feel proud in the services offered. If more are invested, then that means more security (donations, support, advocacy, etc).

That means retention and growth.

Different learning styles require different services. Libraries got 'em, whether some people realize that or not. To get the ball rolling, we have to step on the platform first. I think it's time librarians showed the community we what we offer. On their terms.

Start with flyers, posters, videos, whatever it takes. Go to college campuses-bus stations, wherever. Just do something. Get inspired.

:::Ideas are now brewing::: Happy Monday

-@shten

The time for Libraries is NOW

View more presentations from Ned Potter.

International Women's Day

2011-03-19T19:09:00.000-07:00

This is arriving to you a little late, I know, but I couldn't go without acknowledging International Women's Day. Most of you know what today brings, or can tell as much from the title. But if you really think about what women do to help shape our society, it's *amazing*. For librarians, we can't forget about Judith Krug, lifelong advocate for intellectual freedom and founder of Banned Books Week. Without her, our ability to freely read whatever we please wouldn't have been advocated quite so well, and I know I may not be as passionate about libraries as I am today.

In other IWD news, there are plenty of resources that are both positive and empowering to highlight this day. Needless to say, in some parts of the world that aren't so bright, these pieces spark hope. Here's a favorite of mine (<----totally bias because I <3 PBS)
PBS Newshour Photo Essay: International Women's Day 2011

There's also The Guardian that names off 100 inspirational women according to their category. Scroll down the page and you can find top activists, artists, musicians, politicians, doctors, athletes, writers and more. I couldn't help but peruse the "writing and academia" list where I found J.K. Rowling (!!!) and Marjane Satrapi (another favorite).

: Persepolis-Marjane Satrapi's 2007 film (if you haven't already seen it, I suggest you do so

Also, don't forget that Batgirl is a woman too.

Take charge of your inner super-hero.

Happy International Women's Day.

-@shten

Changes for Libraries

2011-03-19T19:04:00.000-07:00

Outside the blogosphere I find myself seeking opportunities for the latest updates on digital lending solutions and news on the HarperCollins buzz, but with all the great blogs out there it can be difficult to figure out what's going on what with the terminology and all. Additionally, the fuss over HarperCollins' may still leave some in the dark. To break it down, here's a simple video posted by a few librarians, from one of my many favorite blogs,Boing Boing~

Note: The reason why I like this video is because these librarians are doing their job, keeping informationeasy to understand in a literary world full of hard-to-translate information.

In new news this is vital. Library leaders breaking down information barriers are proposing an alternative to e-books, using host sites that look similar to iTunes and contain DRM-free content. But wait a second, what does DRM-free mean?? It could sound like an oncological term to those that don't get it. But keep in mind, I'm not comparing the hardships of cancer to digital rights management--that would be cruel and insensitive. Point is: Naturally, anything that is free (in the library world) is either a) good or b) hard to come by, but worth it in the end. Paradoxically, just as cancer-free is a good thing, DRM-free is a good too.

Moreover, another good aspect of using DRM-free content on a platform that looks similar to iTunes, is that publishers set the price (most are on board with a new system), profiting even more by surpassing publishing companies. The good thing about this system: Libraries promote creative commons licensing, saving money from publishers that participate, and-users get more of what they want. But back-up...what is creative commons. It's awesome, don't you think??

Based on all this information, it sounds like a revolutionary change is about to happen. Let's do this. Let's focus on getting the word out for cc licensing. Let's write authors to stand with us. Let's use a system where we bypass the publishers themselves, give users unlimited access, and finally focus on the creative energy that goes beyond this ridiculous controversy. We need to focus on the people that will be future employers of the publishing company, librarians, authors and more. A lot of libraries provide classes, but shifting the focus towards sharing information as a forum for spoken word, education, and mentoring is where we need to be--shouldn't forget to be.Enjoy this video, I think it speaks a lot for what could be. It's a great way to share, and learn.

-@shten

Librarians: Stand Up

2011-03-19T18:57:00.000-07:00

Friday night as I logged off Facebook, my friend and fellow librarian Leah L. White mentioned her excitement about being interviewed on Monday in the New York Times Business Review Section concerning the latest HarperCollins stunt regarding their revised e-book lending policy to libraries. For those of you that don't know the story, HarperCollins allows libraries (at a price) to purchase e-books for unlimited uses-much like your typical print books, only digital of course. So you can imagine, it disappears from the users account when the checkout period is up. Convenient, right?

It seemed so. Just last week, however, HarperCollins revised their lending statement to allow libraries 26 checkouts before expiring from the catalog. This isn't so convenient for librarians. For those in the blogosphere, it caused an uproar, as it should. With budget cuts galore libraries are having a hard enough time keeping their doors open, and now come March 7th this new lending policy will take hold.

For years we have taken a neutral stance by providing unbiased information, but sadly, this attitude is exactly the mentality that has brought us here. If we always give the impression that we're neutral, it puts us in a vulnerable position for people in power to walk all over us. Continue to stand neutral when a patron comes up and asks for information? Of course! Continue to stand neutral when people set limitations on that information? I don't think so. Regardless of anybody's political stance, or apprehension of stepping on toes, librarians should take a side on this issue. Our society and its ways of accessing information depend on it. Our creativity and imagination depend on it. People of all ages and backgrounds depend on it. The rich, the poor, and the in between--it all affects them. Whether they realize it now, or not.

If we change our tone, then perhaps we can be innovative instead of going through this crap time and time again. By no means do we deserve this, but it's time we change our stance. In a recent post, Tony Molaro, akaThe Information Activist instigated this discussion by stating:

It’s time for us to stand up. It’s time for us to take a stand! If you are in leadership and you are not willing to be human enough to stand up, then now is the time for you to stand down. There are so many voices in our profession that are worried about their “image” or “brand” that they are not willing to do anything but complain in private and off the record. It is to you that I say that going silent, turning a blind eye or deaf ear is condoning the behavior. It is your story that will be lost in history. To those willing to stand; to those who have been standing for a long time, let us fill the world with our voice; let our story be heard.

Thanks Tony. So today, as I read Leah's article, I can't help but feel heartache-though I do hope leaders will promote solidarity, recruiting fearless librarians from here on out. As for this librarian, I am not in any position to pull HarperCollins books from a library catalog, but I sure as hell can be proactive.

As a "good" librarian that cares about the future of libraries and its users, I will promote those publishers that do not put limits on lending policies to institutions that need it most. I will choose to read. I will choose to find new ways we can cut the middle-man out. How's that sound?

In addition, we need to make all publishers aware that we will not tolerate this nonsense. If we choose not to purchase e-books from a certain vendor, let's revolutionize the way we do business.Thanks to Sarah Houghton-Jan , Andy Woodworth, and David Lee-King I present to you the e-book users bill of rights:

The eBook User’s Bill of Rights is a statement of the basic freedoms that should be granted to all eBook users.
The eBook User’s Bill of Rights

Every eBook user should have the following rights:

the right to use eBooks under guidelines that favor access over proprietary limitations
the right to access eBooks on any technological platform, including the hardware and software the user chooses
the right to annotate, quote passages, print, and share eBook content within the spirit of fair use and copyright
the right of the first-sale doctrine extended to digital content, allowing the eBook owner the right to retain, archive, share, and re-sell purchased eBooks

I believe in the free market of information and ideas.
I believe that authors, writers, and publishers can flourish when their works are readily available on the widest range of media. I believe that authors, writers, and publishers can thrive when readers are given the maximum amount of freedom to access, annotate, and share with other readers, helping this content find new audiences and markets. I believe that eBook purchasers should enjoy the rights of the first-sale doctrine because eBooks are part of the greater cultural cornerstone of literacy, education, and information access.
Digital Rights Management (DRM), like a tariff, acts as a mechanism to inhibit this free exchange of ideas, literature, and information. Likewise, the current licensing arrangements mean that readers never possess ultimate control over their own personal reading material. These are not acceptable conditions for eBooks.
I am a reader. As a customer, I am entitled to be treated with respect and not as a potential criminal. As a consumer, I am entitled to make my own decisions about the eBooks that I buy or borrow.

I am concerned about the future of access to literature and information in eBooks. I ask readers, authors, publishers, retailers, librarians, software developers, and device manufacturers to support these eBook users’ rights.

These rights are yours. Now it is your turn to take a stand. To help spread the word, copy this entire post, add your own comments, remix it, and distribute it to others. Blog it, Tweet it (#ebookrights), Facebook it, email it, and post it on a telephone pole.

To the extent possible under law, the person who associated CC0 with this work has waived all copyright and related or neighboring rights to this work

-@shten

P.S. Don't forget it's International hug a librarian day!

King of Limbs

2011-03-19T18:54:00.000-07:00

Today I had a conversation with my friend Ryan about the new Radiohead album King of Limbs that came out less than a week ago. I lost the conversation but it seems like reviews are plastered everywhere!

My initial impression with the video Lotus Flower had me thinking that Thom Yorke got lost in a hippie invasion, and I wondered where the Radiohead I once knew had gone. However, I can't help but promote self-expression and the one thing I've always loved about Radiohead is that they bring something new to the table. They're unpredictable, and different. They intentionally never stay the same, and they question everything, including their music.

Having been 4 years since the release of In Rainbows, the launch sparked questions about the meaning of music in the age of digitally accessing music. I love vinyl records for that purpose. Having something tangible alongside artwork that was illustrated specifically for the purpose of displaying it with the music is just one of the many benefits when buying an album in stores. It has more soul. If you want predictability in Radiohead, you can find it in their artwork.

But don't expect it in King of Limbs. In their new album, they set a new tone without having to be so drastic. I remember when Kid A was released everybody got upset because the electronics indicated they had taken a new turn. In this album they've done it differently. The electronic percussions and dream-like flow of the songs are different--but still Radiohead. The first sounds of Bloom remind me of Four Tet in a sense. I love the rhythmic tones, electronic percussions,and dancing hooks between both artists. If you love this track specifically, check out Four Tet. You don't want to miss 'em.

But one thing is certain. Radiohead is still evolving, and that is what keeps us on our toes. We don't expect ourselves to stay the same, so why should we expect musicians to produce anything different?

Dance with it or get off it.

Listen to the whole album here, and enjoy!

@shten

"Let me see if I can put it in words that even the inebriated would understand"

2011-03-19T18:43:00.000-07:00

Thanks to an old friend of mine I was introduced to the book Jitterbug Perfume by Tom Robbins in 2010. I just love the smell of old books, so I couldn't resist buying a copy. To this day I still continue to smell the pages. It reminds me of old libraries and local bookstores.

There is something sweet about my day being brightened by something silly that's been said, or meditating on a thought that stays with me for awhile. Reminiscing, I couldn't help but think *and laugh* at the following excerpts (better in context, of course):

To achieve the impossible, it is precisely the unthinkable that must be thought.

The Middle Ages hang over history's belt like a beer belly. It is too late now for aerobic dancing or cottage cheese lunches to reduce the Middle Ages. History will have to wear size 48 shorts forever.

If you didn't serve the nasty fellow (God), the Romans would burn your house down. If you did serve him, you were called a Christian and got to burn other people's houses down.

: 2 motifs from the story - a Beet(root) and the glass bottle etched with an image of the great god Pan and a vial of the Elixir Vitae

Tom Robbins---you never fail to impress me.

With that said, pick up a book and enjoy a good laugh.

Be positive, be kind, and read wisely fellow readers.

Happy *almost*Full Moon to you!

@shten