Cooking, Crafting Library Books Popular After Earthquake

Books about cooking and crafting were unusually popular Tuesday afternoon, according to Darcy Cahill, Perry Hall Library manager.

"Some people were very stressed after the earthquake," Cahill said. "They were looking for a distraction, so they came to the library."

Even during the quake, which lasted several seconds at 1:51 p.m., she said the library remained relatively calm.

"One librarian brought up a website that told us there was a 5.9 earthquake in Virginia," Cahill said. "I could make an announcement for our customers to let them know what happened."

After speaking with other administrators and inspecting the building, she decided not to evacuate or close the branch.

Dana Starrett, who checks out books on a weekly basis, said she was grateful to still be able to use the library after the quake.

"Sure, we don't get earthquakes usually. It took me by surprise," Starrett said. "But I'm not too worried about it."