Before the Internet...

I like to think that I've evolved since first getting my library degree.  I was a messy librarian at first: stumbling over questions, nervously trying to find the right answer and worried that it would be the wrong answer.  Somehow, it levels out and gets easier.  I got more confident and knew where the right answer could be found.  I'm thankful that it didn't take me long, because in this line of work you never know what the next question might be...

"Can you find and read to me the recipe for broccoli salad?"
"I need to know how to solve for x in my math homework, can you help me?"
"What day of the week was March 13, 1931?"

It could literally be ANYTHING.  That's what makes this kind of work rewarding and fun.  I take comfort in knowing that this is a staple function of a job that evolves constantly; question/answer has been happening since the dawn of the librarian!  NPR recently covered a story with the New York Public Library, which touches on this subject:
http://www.npr.org/2014/12/28/373268931/before-the-internet-librarians-would-answer-everything-and-still-do
It's a fun read, and interesting to see that patron questions haven't really changed all that must over the years, and neither has the drive of the librarian to find the right answer.

Until next time,
EH,LD