I took a walk inside the library today, 

and I noticed everything. 

Two older women exchanging hellos, 

kids under piles of toys, 

and parents taking a breath. 

2025 resolutions written by teens, 

(I add my own but it’s more of a wish) 

“Save for a car” 

“To stop getting with toxic people and have a tan!” 

“Have more adventures” 

I look off the balcony and gaze down, down, down, 

huge seltzer bottle in the hand of a young man, 

and a book open in his lap, 

periodically staring out the huge window. 

Even though it’s not Saint Patrick's Day, 

a gentleman wears a green outfit, 

with a green fedora atop his head, 

and shuffles cards as if he is waiting for someone. 

Giant chess played by a mom and son, 

and they even have a little audience. 

I wonder how many people come to this place every day, 

just to sit in front of the wall-sized windows, 

crack open a book or catch up with a friend. 

And I know this place becomes a safe haven for anyone who needs one. 

And as I’m writing this, kids' voices and laughter float up. 

It's hardly ever silent in the library.