A Tree Grows in Brooklyn

By Betty Smith

Copyright 1943

Like the tree that grows in the slums of Brooklyn despite the harsh conditions, young Francie Nolan also flourishes in an often cruel and lonely world.  She takes delight in the smallest, most unexpected pleasures while  so many adults she has contact with discourage her and keep her from becoming all that she could be.  One of these cases is an adult who could have had such a positive impact on Francie’s life yet all but ignores her.  

 

Francie loved reading and would often walk to the neighborhood public library on Saturday morning.  She would ask the librarian to recommend a book for a girl.  Without so much as a glance up or a second thought, the librarian would push forward a book.  Time after time, one of several books would be offered.   Just think what an impact that librarian could have had if she taken the time to look at Francie and talk to her.  Think of the conversations this bright, sensitive little girl could have had with a caring adult who also loved books.  Not only would Francie’s life have been affected, but the librarian would have been touched as well.  

As I started a new job at the front desk of a public library this week, I remembered little Francie Nolan.  Something as simple as eye contact and a smile can have an impact on a person’s day.  I’ll have to remember that the mundane tasks of a job are just part of the picture.  The rest of the picture is the attitude conveyed in words and body language.  Just maybe, someone like Francie will walk up to the desk looking for a little encouragement. I never want to become like that librarian in A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, ignoring the person in front of me for the tasks sitting on the desk or the words flashing on the computer screen.