PUSS IN BOOKS

I've taken today's title from a fascinating documentary that we have at the library about cats in libraries. It was filmed long before "Dewey" became a best seller and the cinematographer went all over the country to see how cats enhanced patrons' experiences with books. There were many buildings with felines lounging on circulation desks, and sitting with kids who were reading with great enthusiasm. Obviously, the "allergy controversy" had to be explored, too, on the negative side. It was found that there were few towns that objected to a pet living with the town's books, but occasionally there was great objection and the librarians simply too the cat home. One side story of interest to me concerned the mascots of the huge Baker and Taylor Company, which for years supplied most libraries with their books. These two Scottish Folds graced all correspondence , catalogs, etc. and soon became iconic. Since the breed is somewhat rare, we all were fascinated with their charm--round heads and bodies with flat ears...... As a member of SF Rescue myself I can attest to both their beauty and gentle personalities. Mine-Fiona Macdougall and Robert the Bruce-were driven up here from New Jersey. I learned of their plight-highly allergic little children-from an internet alert. A breeder whom I knew was part of the effort and vouched for me as a good candidate for adoption. Susan agreed to drive part-way with the little guys. So, the owner drove the first leg to Connecticut, and then she drove to Sturbridge where a friend and I met her. The guys were very quiet until we got home . Robbie settled in, but Fi---well she managed to get into an opening for pipes in my daughter's closet. Thought we were going to have to tear out the wall......lured her up and out with food. Now my little red guy is happy anywhere you put him, and Fi ,at 5 whole pounds, bosses everyone with a tiny, kind of whiney voice, looking like a little white snowman. (If you're interested in breed rescue, go on-line, there are many listed. You will have to register and be vouched for by your vet, but these organizations really do amazing work, pulling cats out of shelters). Mutt cats are great too! Don't forget them!