Westerly Sun Column | Explore Your Passions and Hobbies at the Library

What is your passion? What are your hobbies? These were questions I would be asked at parties, and I would never have a great answer (any answer really) except “I like to sit on the couch and watch Bravo.” A valid pastime in my opinion, but an awkward answer when strangers stare blankly at you and slowly back away. I’ve always liked birds and found them fascinating. My favorite bird is the Puffin, but I also love birds of prey. So, I decided to become a birder. I already own binoculars, so why not become obsessed with the animal most closely related to the dinosaurs?

The library has tons of books about birding. “Slow birding: The Art and Science of Enjoying the Birds in Your Own Backyard” by Joan Strassmann is a great way to begin. I think the best advice that Strassmann offers is to slow down and watch. Notice what’s around you, including the variety of birds that you live with in your backyard. This is a great book to start with because you don’t need to travel or buy expensive equipment to enjoy taking in the beauty of nature around you. Another good one, if you want to get started, is “1001 Secrets Every Birder Should Know” by Sharon Stiteler.

It’s not just about spotting birds; I want to take in their beauty. “Bird: Exploring the Winged World” is more of an exploration of how birds have been portrayed in art throughout history, and it is gorgeous. “The Owl Handbook” by John Shewey explores what he calls these “enigmatic” birds. I am a fan because in the photos, the owl always seems surprised and/or annoyed. There are also some fascinating tidbits including that owls can rotate their head 270 degrees and that many Native Americans venerated the owl because they believed them to be an escort to the spirit world.

Birding doesn’t have to be your hobby of choice. The fun thing is that you can try a bunch of things to see what feels right. I tried crocheting and it made my arm hurt, so that was a no go. I encourage you to come to the library to find your hobby whether it be cooking, hiking, or even reading. Maybe you want to study art or do some genealogy. The library is the place to find your next hobby. I’ve already told my husband that I don’t think I’m going to be the best at identifying birds, but that doesn’t deter me. Even if I’m not great at it, I’ll have fun doing it and isn’t that the point! 

by Caroline Badowski, Head of Adult Services