Personal Kingston Library Stories:
Caitlin Lord, NEW FoKL Volunteer
Dear Kingston Community,
My name is Caitlin. I’m a mom of three and have lived in Kingston since 2005. Recently, I’ve rediscovered the library; a lifeline as I rebuild my life after experiencing a cybercrime. Despite starting over at what felt like ground zero, I’ve never been more content.
My iPhone was hacked, and surveilled by organized criminals for unknown reasons. My predators mimicked the algorithm, making it very hard to explain or extract myself from a complicated situation. It felt like my mind was being controlled by something else. I fell into a trap of digital manipulation in a story so complex that I literally wrote a book, Who Kidnapped My Inner Child, to make sense of it all. My way out of the maze was removing all devices from my life. It sounds extreme, but I believe it was the only way to escape this continuous digital surveillance that took over my life.
I transitioned to an analog lifestyle four months ago. It was an adjustment at first, but now I love it. I feel so much more present, without being pulled in so many directions by apps and devices. For a music nerd like me, giving up streaming was the hardest part, but I've completely rediscovered how listening to local radio makes me feel connected to our community.
I wrote much of my book at the Kingston Library's computer center. It's incredibly inspiring to be surrounded by books, while writing my first; and connect with those who appreciate them.
I once worked on a project called Salva la Luna, teaching puppet workshops to children in a Mexican migrant farm village. Those experiences taught me how little we truly need and how much energy comes from community and simplicity.
A vivid memory from Mexico stands out: I was in Zipolite when a fire engulfed the town. The destruction was devastating, it burned the whole village to the ground. The next morning, the people were already rebuilding with optimism and resilience. Contagious rhythms of Cumbia music echoed loudly from radios, people were out cooking street-food, and the overall mood was upbeat. This was a powerful reminder to me that even after tragedy, life continues. That spirit has been a great teacher for me during my own challenges.
Starting over isn’t as terrifying as it seems. Homelessness, which once felt like a doomsday scenario, is showing me that progress happens little by little, just as setbacks do. Each day is another step forward, and along the way, I’ve found so many silver linings; especially the library.
For the first time in years, I have time to explore Kingston and feel connected to the community. I’ve joined the Friends of the Library group to give back to this invaluable space; a warm, welcoming place with computers, books, and inspiration when technology failed me.
This is a love letter to our library, especially in a year when it’s also in transition as renovations continue at its usual midtown location. I’m so grateful for this resource. A library card is worth far more than a platinum visa in my opinion. The places it takes you are real and long-lasting; no one can take away the knowledge you absorb from books.
If it’s been a while since you came to the library, I encourage you to stop by and explore. You never know what you’ll discover.
Thank you, Kingston Library! I look forward to continuing to learn, grow, and connect as time goes on.
With love always,
Caitlin
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