Also interesting

The Bookstore in the Library

One way to think about patron-driven acquisitions (PDA) is that it sets up a bookstore in the library. It’s not what we usually think of as a bookstore — there are no dusty shelves or a chic coffee bar. Nor is this what we have come to expect from online bookselling, where Amazon sets the standard. The library bookstore is a new phenomenon, but there is a chance that it will become more widespread, perhaps even ubiquitous in the coming years. I hope it does. It would be a good thing for scholarly communications.

Thanks to Pat Devine for the link.

Sometimes I'm glad I don't work in a public library

Reference Question of the Week - 5/2/10 (from Brian Herzog, the Swiss Army Librarian)

Herzog had heard a patron ask for a plastic bag. (To put books in, right...no.)

After the circ person handed him a bag, he opened it and put in his dirty, dripping, reeking underwear (I’m using italics instead of being as graphic as the situation warrants). He then proceeded to tell her that he had a cheeseburger earlier in the day, which upset his stomach, and he didn’t make it to our bathroom in time.

Turns out the patron then spent some time using the computers carrying the bag about the library. One does wonder if he didn't make it to the bathroom in time, did he leave any presents in the stacks.

Ugh. I feel for the folks at this library.