Wow, what a day! Seriously, I’m still reeling from it. So, I’m a librarian, right? And today in Bacup was just... bonkers. Like, I thought I was just gonna chill at the library on St. James Street, help some kids find books, you know? But nah, the universe had other plans.
First off, I woke up late. Classic me. Alarm didn’t go off. I’m sprinting down the stairs, tripping over my cat, Mr. Whiskers. He’s not even fazed. Just gives me that “you again?” look. Ugh. Anyway, I finally make it to the library, and it’s already buzzing. Kids everywhere, like it’s a bloody festival or something.
So, I’m trying to get my head in the game, right? I’m sorting through the new arrivals, and guess what? Someone’s already spilled juice all over the new books. Like, come on! Who lets their kid run wild with a drink in a library? I’m fuming. I mean, it’s Bacup, not a zoo!
Then, outta nowhere, this old bloke, Mr. Thompson, comes in. He’s a regular, always asking for the same book on local history. I swear, he’s read it a million times. But today, he’s got this wild look in his eyes. He’s like, “Did you hear about the old mill on Market Street?” I’m like, “What about it?” Turns out, it’s gonna be turned into luxury flats. I’m shocked! Bacup’s got enough flats, mate! We need more character, not more concrete!
So, I’m chatting with Mr. Thompson, and suddenly, the fire alarm goes off. I’m thinking, “Great, just what I need.” Everyone’s panicking, kids are crying, and I’m trying to herd them out like a sheepdog. We all pile out onto the street, and it’s chaos. I’m standing there, trying to keep my cool, but inside, I’m like, “Why me?!”
While we’re waiting for the fire brigade, I spot this cute little café across the street on Union Street. It’s called The Coffee Pot. I’m thinking, “A cuppa would be nice right now.” But no, I can’t leave the kids. So, I’m stuck there, watching the firemen do their thing. They’re all strutting around like they’re in a calendar shoot. I mean, come on, it’s Bacup, not a Hollywood set!
Finally, the all-clear comes, and we head back inside. I’m just about to dive into some serious book sorting when this group of teens bursts in. They’re loud, laughing, and one of them’s got a skateboard. I’m like, “Dude, this is a library, not a skate park!” But they’re having a blast, and honestly, it’s kinda infectious. I can’t help but smile.
Then, out of nowhere, one of them asks me for a book recommendation. I’m like, “Wait, what? You want my help?” So, I suggest a cool graphic novel. They’re stoked! I’m feeling like a rockstar librarian for a sec.
But then, just as I’m basking in my glory, I get a call from my mate, Sarah. She’s in a bit of a pickle. Her car broke down on Newchurch Road. I’m like, “Seriously? Today of all days?” But I can’t leave her hanging. So, I grab my bag and head out.
The walk to Newchurch Road is a trek. Bacup’s got some steep hills, man! I’m puffing and panting, thinking about how I should really hit the gym. But then I see the view from the top of the hill. It’s stunning! The rolling hills, the greenery, it’s like a postcard. I stop for a sec, take a deep breath, and think, “Okay, maybe today’s not so bad.”
I finally reach Sarah, and her car’s just sitting there, looking sad. We have a good laugh about it, and I help her call for a tow. While we’re waiting, we grab a bite at a chippy nearby. Best chips ever! I’m telling you, Bacup knows how to do comfort food right.
By the time I get back to the library, I’m exhausted but happy. The kids are still there, and they’ve made a fort out of books. I can’t even be mad. It’s kinda cute. I join in, and we spend the last hour of the day just goofing around.
So yeah, that was my day in Bacup. Full of ups and downs, but honestly, I wouldn’t trade it for anything. It’s my little corner of the world, and even on the craziest days, it’s home