As someone who once had to pay a $300 library fine, this article made me smile. Then, I felt bad about my own ineptitude. Then, I smiled again.

Society makes mothers feel we must take our kids to the library for that sweet, special book bonding time. You know, the reading circle and the snacks? Sometimes, they even throw in a craft-making time under the gigantic mural of the characters from Charlotte’s Web.

But, I’ve finally realized that I’m not responsible enough to have a library card. You would’ve thought that I could’ve realized it before having three kids, but you know what they say about denial and the river in Egypt. (Plus, since I’m an author, I feel like I’m betraying my own livelihood – if my library card is revoked the libraries will stop buying my books?)

After leaving New York, Philadelphia, and Lexington, Kentucky only to find library books stuffed in moving boxes months later, I’ve finally confessed to my children that we are just going to have to start buying books.

There.

I’ve said it.

It’s liberating, it’s cheaper, and I don’t have to worry about police arresting me when I go downtown anymore.

And to Rebecca Cusey, who had to pay a $500 fine? One word of advice. Never, ever check out movies from the library! Those will get you every time!