Library books...

I had to return some books to the library last week, but Instead of my local library I went to a larger library a few suburbs away. I looked for the returns 'chute' outside...

One, similar to this one in the photo below, is at my local library. You slide the books in one at a time and the beam 'reads' the data from the barcode label on the book and it's recorded as a return.

Couldn't find the return chute that day so I had to end up asking the librarian on the desk for help. She led me to another section of the library where the large sign said 'Return'...hmmm, how did I miss that sign!!!???

The librarian very kindly showed me how to return books. You place the books that you are returning on a shelf on the left of the photo. And then, as if by magic, the titles appear on the screen to the right of the shelves and the books are marked returned. You learn something new every day! 

So what library books have I been reading lately?

I tried a 'new to me' author last time I borrowed...

The book is set in Cambodia with a holidaying French detective being seconded to work on solving a crime by assisting the local police. I really enjoyed the book in which historical and cultural themes were interwoven with the crime. 

Another book I was returning that day is set in the UK, in the Sussex countryside. It's a 'ghost' novel and I didn't think I would like it, but it was a real page turner! As a result I finished it in record time as I wanted to know that ending!! Lol. I had borrowed this book thinking it was one of James's 'Roy Grace' novels. 

And the book I have to finish soon as it is due back on Wednesday. 

I have grown to really love the series of books by Martin Walker; set in France in the rural town/village of Saint Denis. Reading these books, I've learned much about historical aspects of France and also the different levels of policing, eg local, Police Nationale, Gendarmes. 

 Bruno is the local policeman and what an interesting man he is. A former soldier, he has become a much loved part of the village, with his horse Hector and his pup Balzac. Bruno also likes to garden and cook, so in some of the chapters I find myself salivating at the description of some of the meals he is preparing. 

In this particular book, the theme of radicalisation of some young men/boys is explored. The world knows of  the recent real life events in Paris which are linked to this problem so it was interesting that Walker wove this theme into his book. 

I get to read more novels these days than I was ever able to read while working. One of the perks of retirement!