Kaetrena's Moment
For as long as I can remember, libraries have been a place of sanctuary for me. Rows of books are signifiers of places to go, people to meet, languages to learn, and new ideas to discover so perhaps I can create my own. Although I suspect that the historical nature of libraries as silent spaces is due in part to the idea that monks were the earliest librarians, I also think it's hard to not be moved to silent awe in the face of so much potential knowledge. Wherever I travel, I try to visit a local large library. During our time in Florence we were unexpectedly given a massive amount of free time, so I had the opportunity to visit the Biblioteca Nazionale Centrale di Firenze (National Central Library of Florence). I was happy that Dana, who is also a lover of libraries, came along with me.
When we arrived at the library, we learned that generally, visitors are not granted entry without a letter of recommendation. As we waited in line, we watched the library employee talk with potential visitors and review their written requests for admission. When it was my turn, I told the library employee that I was a visiting librarian (actually, I pointed to myself and said "bibliotecaria! (librarian!)" with a big smile). In this instance, my announcement of my profession was all that was needed for the employee to swiftly arrange for a pass and a key to a locker (you can't take purses or bags into the library), along with a request to not take photos.
All I can do is write about the beautiful and completely, reverently quiet reading room lined with wooden tables and green bankers lamps and the grand foyer with the massive half-crescent circulation desk. At the basement floor there is a small canteen area for visitors to purchase food (and eat in the canteen). Upper floors hold stacks (which are closed - that means you can't browse the collection - rather, you search for items in the library catalog, go to a desk and ask for the items, and the items are brought to you) and special collections.
If I ever return to Florence, I plan to take advantage of a guided tour, which offers access to private sections of the building. For now, I am very pleased that I was afforded the professional privilege of entry and casual visitation to the central library, and at the end of my short visit I was sure to thank the library employees who allowed this moment to happen. It is a moment I will especially hold in my memory since I was not able to record it on film.