Every so often I decide I MUST move a post over from my old blog which I still maintain to 365 Days Of Birds (this web site). The motivation arose earlier today when the children’s library at the University of Minnesota Duluth asked to purchase some of my children’s books. I am honored by the request, but will turn down the sale … the books will be a gift! Read on … and you will discover why this is truly an honor for me.

I originally published this post on August 25, 2010  on NorthstarNerd.Org.

How do you say thanks to the person who opened up the world of books to you? There is truly no adequate way to express my gratitude.

Earlier this month my elementary school librarian died. She taught me to love books, starting with Dan Frontier! Over the years I branched out to other books, and I never stopped visiting Mrs. Bissonett. My visits to this great lady lasted for over 45 years! After they closed my elementary school, she ran the children’s library at the University of Minnesota, Duluth.

• As an east coast prep school student attending Phillips Exeter Academy, I always took time out while home in Duluth, Minnesota to visit my elementary school librarian.
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• As an Ivy Leaguer attending Dartmouth College, I always took time out while home in Duluth, Minnesota to visit my elementary school librarian
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• And finally … two years ago for the last time, as a 52 year software project manager working at a Fortune 100 R&D Center, I visited my dear friend for one last time.

Thank you, Mrs. Bissonett for my love of reading … and the challenge to get a great education. Other than my parents, you were the key person who taught me to “love to learn”.

As a fyi to any UMD Librarians … my blog has thousands of readers. Mrs. Bissonett will continue to get the recognition she deserves (16,313 visitors in March)!