We have great libraries in Milwaukee, and in the 'burbs, too. I love the Central Library, 814 W. Wisconsin Ave., because it's such an amazingly beautiful old building, a great place for people watching and it has a drive-through.

I also like the Shorewood Library, 3920 N. Murray Ave., especially the kids' section because it's closed off from the rest of the library, which is ideal when little people -- like my own -- haven't mastered their quiet library voice. (However, I wish it didn't have a toy train table, because it distracts my boys from reading books.)

The other day we were on our way to the East Library, 1920 E. North Ave.,  and my 5-year-old asked me why we don't have to pay money for library books.

I told him the library was special because it allows us to borrow the books, and trusts us to return them. He noted that you can't do that at Target with the toys. My son then said the library was good at sharing, and I agreed.

After that conversation, I realized once again how truly cool the library is, how many opportunities it provides for so many people, how nothing else is quite like it and what great life lessons it provides for kids, aside from the obvious benefit of turning them on to reading.

P.S. Unfortunately, the library hasn't been a free experience for me lately. Checking out the bulk of the Eric Carle collection wasn't a good idea. I know that copy of  "The Mixed-up Chameleon" is around here somewhere.