A collection of vignettes of library life by California public librarian Don Borchert, this memoir made me, in turns, nod my head in recognition and thank my lucky stars our library isn't that bad. His writing style is engaging and makes the book a fast read (the just over 200 page count helps there as well.) All of the stories you'd expect are included--the woman who runs up all of her cards until they're blocked and applies for more under a slightly different name, eyes wide in affronted disbelief when questioned whether she's had previous cards, the surly teens testing the limits, the crazy old man who curses and yells. There are also some very sad tales the likes of which I've been lucky enough to avoid so far in my career, and which make you ponder our relationships to our patrons and the extent of our influence in their lives.
For sensitive readers, be aware that Borchert does not shy away from profane language, so if you are turned off by that you might not enjoy the book. Being more of a sailor when it comes to such things, I didn't mind and found myself laughing out loud several times at his bold opinions and the unapologetic way in which he expresses them.
Recommended for all library staff who aren't put off by some profanity.
Catherine :-)
