HOW HAS THE LIBRARY TRANSFORMED YOUR LIFE
by Tang Chow Kheng
27 January 2006

Three years ago, I was traumatized by the sudden death of my beloved husband. Life as I knew, would never be the same. During my initial bereavement, I was seeking for answers to many questions that troubled my mind, soul and spirit. I knew that the libraries with its extensive resources were essential tools which I could rely on greatly.

The first library I visited was Woodlands Regional Library located within walking distance from the Woodlands MRT and in the estate where I was temporarily staying. In the early months of bereavement, I could hardly attend to my normal routine of housework chores and meal preparations for my family. I needed space to be alone and for quiet solitude. The library provided me enough comfort and like a “counselling room” where its immense resources helped me find answers to many questions of my sudden loss. In the books on grief and bereavement, I found “friends and counsellors” that helped me identify with my loss as the writers shared their personal struggles which were similar to mine. I also learnt from them how to better manage my grief whenever I was in an emotional roller coaster.

Before my bereavement, shopping was my usual enjoyment during weekends. However during the early months of grief, my usual shopping sprees turned into visits to the libraries. I frequented libraries which were within close proximity to shopping centres and MRT stations. They were libraries at Choa Chu Kang, Bukit Batok, Jurong East and Woodlands. Their convenient locations and the longer opening hours enabled me to visit the libraries as often as I could and to spend extended time reading and searching for relevant books.

Apart from the bereavement books that I borrowed, I also found the books under the Religion Section very helpful. The book entitled “As Silver Refined” by Kay Arthur (ref : English 248.86 ART) has left a lasting impact on me. I found answers to the many issues concerning my Christian faith in this book. As I began to understand the purpose and meaning of my sufferings, my life was gradually transformed. I was inspired to reach out to others who were undergoing grief and loss too.

Upon reflection, had it not been for the vast resources found in the libraries, I would not have been able to accept my loss and to move on. I am now a volunteer in a support group for widows, known as WiCare Support Group which reaches out to widows.

So, let me say a big "thank you" to the NLB for greatly transforming my life in my time of grief and bereavement.

Tang Chow Kheng