A Pillar of Light

I advanced into the alcove where tall leather-bound volumes formed a dark canyon. Beneath an arched metal lamp, a heavy toggle switch stood vertical. I observed the lever. Deliberation preceded execution. Reaching forward with both gloved hands, I forced the switch downward against its mechanical resistance. A sharp metal latch snapped into place. Instantly, an intense beam of warm amber light flooded the shelf, casting my long shadow across the rows of spines. The darkness yielded instantly.