(no subject)

One of the best things about working at the library is those times when a patron you've never seen before comes in and you get to connect with that person immediately, just because they've asked you for a certain book.

First patron today is a kid who came up and asked if we have any Lovecraft. Alas, we have none at Kingston because we are a tiny branch so I told him I could put some on hold for him. "Or, well," I said, "I don't know if this would work for you but most of Mr Lovecraft's stories are available for free online. You're welcome to use one of our computers."

Man, I love watching people's faces light up when you tell them how to get just the book they want. And it is always lovely to meet a fellow fan.

First patron of the day. I'm going to be smiling about that for hours.

(no subject)

Today's Wacky Library Phonecall:

Me: Kingston Library, this is Sara. How may I help you?
Patron: ::speaking in a slow, dreamy voice:: I'm sitting in the Bainbridge library checking my email and I have a notice that says I have two audiobooks coming due. I turned those in.
Me: All right, I'll look up your record and check on those. ::pulls up the record:: Well, it does look like those are still checked out to you.
Patron: I turned them in.
Me: Let me go check the shelf.

So I put her on hold and go check the shelf. The audiobooks are not there.

Me: Ma'am, I'm afraid they're not here. Would you like me to renew them for you and you can look for them one more time?
Patron: ::very long pause:: Oh, they're right here. I have them.
Me: ...
Patron: Can I turn them in at Bainbridge?
Me: ...yes.


I get all the weird phone calls, I swear to god.