Reflecting and Renewing: Ash Wednesday at the Library
Today marks Ash Wednesday, the beginning of the Lenten season for many in our community. While it is a day rooted in deep religious tradition, it also serves as a broader invitation to hit the “pause” button on our hectic lives and engage in a bit of introspection.
Whether you are observing the religious fast, curious about the history of the day, or simply looking for a quiet space to reflect, your library is here to support your journey.
The History Behind the Ashes
Ash Wednesday marks the start of the 40 days of Lent (excluding Sundays), a period representing the time Jesus spent in the desert. The tradition of placing ashes on the forehead—usually in the shape of a cross—serves as a physical reminder of mortality and a call to humility.
If you’re a history buff, we have a wealth of resources covering the evolution of these traditions from the early church to modern-day practices.
Finding Quiet in the Noise
In a world that feels increasingly loud, the library offers a rare commodity: silence. If you are using this season to practice mindfulness or meditation, our reading rooms provide the perfect sanctuary.
“The library is the temple of the mind.” — A sentiment that feels especially true during a season of reflection.
Curated Resources for the Season
Looking to dive deeper? We’ve pulled together a few collections to help you make the most of the coming weeks:
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Lenten History & Theology: From scholarly texts to accessible guides on spiritual disciplines.
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The Literature of Reflection: Explore works like T.S. Eliot’s Ash Wednesday or modern memoirs on soul-searching and personal growth.
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Meatless Meals & Simple Living: If you’re observing the tradition of abstaining from meat, check out our cookbook section for creative vegetarian and pescatarian recipes.
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Mindfulness & Meditation: We have a wide range of e-books and audiobooks on the Libby app to help you start a daily reflection habit.
How Can We Help?
The library is more than just a building full of books; it’s a community hub for everyone, regardless of where they are on their personal or spiritual path. Stop by the front desk today, and we’d be happy to help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
📖 Staff Picks: Resources for Reflection
If you’re looking for something to guide your thoughts during this season, check out these titles available in our
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“Ash Wednesday” by T.S. Eliot – A classic, profound poem that captures the essence of the day.
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“The Book of Joy” by Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu – A beautiful dialogue on finding lasting happiness in a changing world.
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“Wherever You Go, There You Are” by Jon Kabat-Zinn – The quintessential guide to mindfulness and meditation for beginners.
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“Braiding Sweetgrass” by Robin Wall Kimmerer – A stunning look at the intersection of indigenous wisdom and plant science, perfect for a season of renewal.
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“The Simple Faith of Mister Rogers” by Amy Hollingsworth – A gentle look at how kindness and reflection can change a community.
