Hi, I’m Elle, and I’m so glad you’re here!
Some of my earliest memories are wandering around the library: the librarians who always gave me new things to read, the chunk of the date stamp, and my backpack getting heavier on the walk home. The library let me access the world beyond my small, isolated hometown and dream bigger than it. I am who I am because of the library, and I’ve been championing them ever since.
Nearly 3,000 books later, I still read mostly from the library. I’m an American in Brazil now, and Libby is my lifeline. I read across every genre and have strong opinions about all of it.
This isn’t another book blog. This is a place where you can figure out what to read when you don’t know what you’re in the mood for. Come wander, browse the shelves, chat with the other patrons, and leave with your next 5-star book.
Why Subscribe?
A free subscription is your library card. It gets you my free reading roundups, book reviews, and reading guides.
Becoming a paid member makes you a patron: you get the paid-only Special Collections, exclusive challenges, and printables. Much more than that, it allows me to keep the place open and running (and pursue my goal of being a professional reader - thank you!).
Here’s what paid subscribers have been saying lately:
“Love your writing and all the effort you put into being here!” - Rich Kacy
“I enjoy your posts and am a huge supporter of libraries. I keep a journal of all the libraries I have visited.” - Maureen Mathews
“Really love your posts and your work!” - Emily Thygesen
A Little More About Me
I love traveling, spending time with my terrible dachshunds, going down obsessive genealogy rabbit holes, learning new languages, and meeting new friends.
Before I was old enough to get a real library card, my amazing mother, after much begging on my part, created my very first library card for me. Other kids had fake IDs. I had a fake library card.
I love the community you find in libraries, but I also love the feeling. The smell of old books mingled with new, the hush of turning pages, and the stacks and stacks of undiscovered worlds waiting to be unearthed.
More than anything, the earliest thing I remember being is a reader. That’s never changed.
I am who I am because of the library. Now I’m building my space where all are welcome, and I’d love for you to be a member.
Want to Work Together?
Want to sponsor the newsletter or explore partnerships? Email me at ellesshelflife@gmail.com.
