Some of my favorite people happen to work at the Central Branch of the Brooklyn Public Library, and I never tire of the fantastic author events they put on--like last Fall's Michael Chabon reading. And for neo-classical beauty, it doesn't get any better (check out Brownstoner's fab piece on its architecture).
Recently, I encountered a library of a different sort. Proteus Gowanus, a gallery and reading room, is one of the most interesting, intimate spaces in South Brooklyn. Located on the Gowanus Canal (which recently saw action in an episode of HBO's Bored to Death), Proteus Gowanus houses art inspired by the polluted, historic canal, which--I discovered--played a key role in the Revolutionary War's Battle of Brooklyn. The gallery also contains the Reanimation Library, a small library of curated texts: curiosities and out-of-print books on everything from Leica cameras to 1950s baking and housewifery.
Looking at a guest book of Gowanus memories, of people from all walks of life, gave me the same feeling I get walking down Court Street in the morning, as retirees and shopkeepers mill about, bidding commuters to have a good day. It's the comfort of community: of having an anchor in the past, and building a relationship with the place where you live. Proteus reminded me that a great library--of any size--will do that for people, no matter what canal you call home.
This post has been somewhat of a revelation to me.
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