Actual Questions People Have Asked Reference Librarians During the Pandemic

Summary

During the pandemic, reference librarians have been asked a variety of unusual and personal questions, ranging from celebrity gossip to medical advice, reflecting the diverse and sometimes bizarre nature of inquiries they handle.

Abstract

The article titled "Actual Questions People Have Asked Reference Librarians During the Pandemic" highlights the peculiar and often humorous nature of questions fielded by librarians amidst the COVID-19 crisis. These queries, which include inquiries about celebrity infidelities, historical trivia, personal health, and supernatural services, underscore the breadth of knowledge that librarians are expected to provide. Despite the levity of these questions, the article acknowledges the seriousness of library workers returning to their jobs under potentially unsafe conditions. The author, Roz Warren, emphasizes the importance of ensuring the safety of library staff and suggests that libraries should only reopen when it is safe to do so. Warren, a seasoned writer for various publications and author of books on library humor, uses these anecdotes to illustrate the unique challenges faced by library workers during the pandemic.

Opinions

The author implies that some of the questions asked of librarians during the pandemic may seem trivial or absurd, especially considering the risks associated with in-person work during this time.
There is an underlying concern for the safety of library workers, with a clear message that libraries should not rush to reopen.
The article suggests a sense of admiration for the versatility and resourcefulness of librarians who are expected to answer such a wide array of questions.
The inclusion of the author's credentials and published works indicates a personal investment in the subject matter and an appeal to the reader to consider the value of library professionals and their contributions to the community.

For This They’re Risking Their Lives to Return to Work?

Is LeBron James cheating on his wife?

When was the letter “J” invented?

How old is Charo?

How do I hire an exorcist?

Are Kathie Lee Gifford and Cathy Lee Crosby the same person?

Should my friend see a doctor if she had a baby 2 months ago but it still feels like there’s a penis inside her?

How big were license plates in 1929?

Do male kangaroos have pouches?

Is there anyone there who can break a spell?

Can you tell me what kind of bird this is? (Mimics bird call.)

Is there a book about how to make your own coffin?

What’s the difference between a pimp and a player?

What’s the Queen of England’s phone number?

How many aspirin make an overdose?

We found a skull when we dug up the backyard. Who should we call to see if it’s human?

Can you look outside and see if my horse is tied up out there?

To be sure, library work during a pandemic is about a lot more than answering quirky questions. But they can provide a bit of comic relief to folks who have been called back to work under challenging conditions. (That being said, I hope that your own library doesn’t open until it is actually safe to do so. #protectlibraryworkers.)

Actual Questions People Have Asked Reference Librarians During the Pandemic

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