The Underground Library

by Jennifer Ryan

“It will surprise you what people can do, especially if we go to war. Everyone will be looking the other way. No one will see what is happening under their very noses because they will not want to.”

“To me, books are like old friends, telling us great truths, holding our hands through the difficulties, showing us light and joy at the end of every tunnel.”

A line can stay with you for the rest of the day.

Do not stand By my grave, and weep. I am not there, I do not sleep— I am the thousand winds that blow I am the diamond glints in snow I am the sunlight on ripened grain, I am the gentle, autumn rain. As you awake with morning’s hush, I am the swift, up-flinging rush Of quiet birds in circling flight, I am the day transcending night. Do not stand By my grave, and cry— I am not there, I did not die.

A book isn’t just a physical object; once you’ve read it, it becomes a thought, a story, a memory that is alive inside you forever.

You needed to love every day with every ounce of energy you had—in case this one was your last.

“Libraries aren’t only about books; they’re about people. They’re about human life, how books can mend hearts, comfort wounds, and inspire us. But most of all, books can bring people together. Their ideas and thoughts make us realize that we are not alone, that we are all connected.”