Summer brings many visitors to this paradise on the Olympic Peninsula that many of us are lucky enough to call home.

A good number of folks new to town stop by the library to get information, directions for exploring the area or to use the public computers to access email or print a boarding pass before heading back home.

There also are plenty of people who stop by the library while considering Sequim as a possible place to retire.

Here are a few things heard around the library lately: “This is a busy library. How cool!” “Libraries are my No. 1 most important place (in choosing where to live). I am just so overjoyed to see that Sequim has such a wonderful library. It helps make my decision (to relocate) easier.” “Wow! For a small library, you have a lot going on!” “You need a bigger library!” “I love this library!”

I love this library, too. One of my favorite things about the library is the people you meet and the connections that are made. Of course, I love books and enjoy reading, but that comes in second to the people I meet. I enjoy connecting with others about books and that’s what some people are looking for — finding their next great read.

At the library, staff also connect with people who are looking for information and resources, using the public computers, enjoying the space to sit and read or spending time with family.

The recent weeks have been filled with news of a divided nation and world. The senseless acts of violence, the relentlessly negative Presidential election campaigns and the seeming decline of civility take their toll on each of us. It can be overwhelming to read the news stories of tragedy and violence, happenings that are far beyond our individual control.

One thing we, as individuals, can determine is the way in which we interact with our community and how we treat each other in our daily lives. I see a connection made every day at the library and it’s one of the things that gives me hope for the future.

If you haven’t stopped in to visit your library lately, I encourage you to check it out; you might be surprised by what it offers. I guarantee you’ll find more than just books.

The library plays a unique role in the community as a third place — that is, a place beyond home, work and school. It’s a neutral space to connect with community, where everyone is welcome.

There is a small, living room-like area when you first walk into the Sequim branch, where people can connect with friends and neighbors or simply sit and read.

For larger gatherings, the library meeting room provides a free space for community groups to conduct public meetings.

There are library programs for kids, families and adults. Computers, a color printer and scanner are available to use. And of course, there are books and other interesting, non-traditional things to check-out and bring home to enjoy. Getting a library card is easy and free — you only need your ID.

To connect with the Sequim Library, stop in for a visit at 630 N. Sequim Ave,, call 683-1161 or visit www.nols.org. I hope to see you soon!

Emily Sly is the Sequim Library manager.