Like most, I spend an immense amount of my time staring at screens. From phones to computers, televisions to tablets, the majority of my day is often spent deciphering information from digital displays. So when it comes to reading books, I desire a screen-less experience. I want paper instead of pixels, a literal page turner, and I prefer that it comes from my local library.

It's not often I meet someone who still visits the library. During my own visits, I am often the only one there for the sole purpose of checking out books. This could be because my library of choice is the main Richmond branch on East Franklin Street. Nestled close to downtown and just about a 20-minute walk from my apartment, it's my favorite place to find my next adventure.

Beyond the physical weight of the book in my hand, and the typographic elegance of text on paper, I enjoy the shared experience of reading a library book. I like knowing the books I read have been devoured by others before me and will continue to tell their tales for years to come after I return them. I've left my share of accidental pen marks and smudges on pages. It is upon seeing a finger print on page 242 of a popular novel that I am reminded of the readers before me, the ones who also sat on the edge of their seats through each harrowing plot twist toward the long awaited conclusion.

Discussing books I've recently read with family and friends helps keep the author's stories alive long after the last period of the final sentence. When asked about my hobbies and interests I proudly include reading, like it is a rare and desirable talent. When in reality it is simply something people have exchanged for the more prolific acts of watching movies, scrolling through Instagram feeds and exchanging emojis and memes.

With wallets full of credit cards, gift cards and loyalty cards galore, library cards are often a forgotten privilege. While my passport currently collects dust in a lockbox, my library card continues to take me to more places and on more adventures than even the savviest of jet setters.