Working at a library, you get some odd questions, especially over the phone.

For example:

"I'm trying to find out when Fred and Betty Smith are coming back from California. I want to invite them to dinner."

Let's see...

There are 1,500 people living in Mayer, more if you add the outlying areas. I have never met Fred and Betty, as they do not have library cards, and I don't actually live in Mayer anymore, due to a lack of affordable housing.

Another example:

"Do you know when the Chamber of Commerce meets?"

I give them the phone number of the Chamber of Commerce."

"Gee, I was hoping you would know so I wouldn't have to call them."

???

This morning took the cake, though.

"Do you have the number for the fire department?"

I reach for the list of local numbers. The caller continues...

"I live in Spring Valley and I'm having a stroke."

"Hang up and dial 911, sir!"

"I just moved to the area, and I don't know the number of the fire department."

HANG UP AND DIAL 911!

"Oh, ok."

About 5 minutes later I heard the sirens start up at the fire department (which is on the other side of the park from here).