In the Library

Lowell never thought a library could be the most dangerous place in the universe. Then he gets an assignment to retrieve a book from the near-infinite Universal Library, a depository of all possible books that could ever be written. He soon encounters marauding bands of library patrons crazed with blood lust in a stark landscape furnished with weapons built from library shelving. In this harsh environment he makes desperate and perilous alliances in a bid to survive. Before long Lowell is in a battle to the death that will test his strength, his courage, and his dedication to the beneficial effects of books and literature. (This short story originally appeared in Space and Time magazine.)