Back to School

As summer is once again coming to a close and everyone is sending their kids back to school, I too am preparing for what I hope is my final year in school, the SLIS (School of Library and Information Science) program at Kent State.  Since returning to school, I have certainly learned many things.  I have made many new friends, had numerous opportunities and unique experiences.  However, the one skill I have not learned in my higher education is how to deal with the oddball requests and the wackos that I encounter in the library on a daily basis.  This must be learned on the job and will be continually tested and taught each day.  I thought I would use this post to share a couple of "now, that's a first" experiences I have recently encountered and how I dealt with them.

Just today, an "interesting" couple came into the library carrying what looked like a tall kitchen trash bag stuffed full of belongings.  They asked to use the phone and after a few minutes, they proceeded back out the front door,(odd but not unheard of).  Well, less than 30 seconds later, they came running back in, smacked the front desk and said, "is there a back way outta here?"  It took me a couple seconds to respond, but I did point to our "side" entrance and they hurried out, bag in tow.  The questions, and possible reasons are endless.  I was fully expecting someone else to come in the front looking for them, and am disappointed that I didn't get to say "they went thata way".

A few weeks ago a middle-aged adult male came into the library to ask directions, again, not uncommon.  He was seemingly normal in appearance and it wasn't until he spoke that I realized he had the biggest "dip" (smokeless chewing tobacco) in his mouth that I have EVER seen.  The amount of chew this guy had between lip and gum was nearly the size of a tennis ball.  Furthermore, he was carrying a "jug" for spitting (hey at least he wasn't swallowing or spitting on the floor/ground).  He asked how to get to a local business and my co-worker was literally speechless.  I spoke up and gave directions, he thanked us and was on his way.  After he left, I looked at my co-worker and said, "now that was a Hoss."

All of these situations proved to be challenging, but I was able to keep my composure and remain professional.  The textbooks/theories I have studied and professors I have had can not replace real world experience.  My suggestion to anyone who is going back to school to pursue a higher degree, get as much hands on experience in your desired field as possible.  Work part-time, volunteer or just hang out; and remember you are always welcome at your local public library.  I'm pretty sure library land can prepare you for most anything.

Until next time...