I grew up in the country, and having cable was not an option. When I was around 13 years old, we got a satellite dish, and my television world opened up.
I do not recall how I first happened upon BBC America, but once I did, I was hooked on all things British. I watched home decorating shows, gardening shows, concerts, Graham Norton – basically, anything they aired. I was probably the only teenager in Indiana watching equal amounts of MTV and the BBC.
By the time I got to college, I was ready to study abroad in London and see if the real place matched up to what I saw on television. And for the most part, it did. But television alone could simply not convey the magic of London and how much I loved it. I adored everything about it – but I especially loved the deep sense of history. I will never forget riding the Tube and seeing out my window that in one spot the metal wall had been cut away and very old stone was visible. It was labeled “Roman Ruins.” I could not imagine how they decided to build a Tube station through Roman ruins, but it brings home the point that there is so much significant history in England that they have had to build over some of it.
Of course, we are rapidly approaching another historic event that will be taking place in the United Kingdom — the coronation of King Charles III. Though the royal family certainly has a complicated history both personally and through colonialism, they are still a significant piece of British culture. This is also the first coronation that many people have been alive to see after Queen Elizabeth II’s impressive 70-year reign.
At GPL, we will be hosting Coronation Day events throughout the day on May 6. Whether you are a fan of the royal family, there will be something for everyone! We’ll be hosting a special royal tea party for kids. Our afternoon tea for adults will include some background on the history of tea in the United Kingdom, as well as the opportunity to sample different teas and common afternoon tea food. We will also be hosting crafts in The Studio for both kids (paper crowns to decorate) and adults (no-sew bunting – Brits love a good bunting!). We’ll have a Union Jack-themed wall with fun props where you can take great photos. The Teen Room will be hosting a replay of the coronation. In the children’s department, you can try out marshmallow croquet or make a shield.
I will be here in my best tea party outfit to enjoy the festivities. And afterward, I’ll probably be cuddled up with some comforting British television at home, and drift off to sleep with the comforting tones of Mary Berry or Monty Don.
Amber Parsons is an Adult Services Librarian at Greenwood Public Library. GPL staff members share in writing this twice-monthly column for the Daily Journal. Send comments to [email protected].
