You want to know what?

As a reference librarian we sometimes get rather odd questions.  I remember one particular case when I was working at a library at an art school.  a student approached the circulation desk and asked me who painted the Mona Lisa.  I was a little surprised that this art student did not know this.  Trying to hide my shock, I answered "Leonardo DaVincci."  The student then asked, "Is he still painting?"

I always try to think the best of all my patrons, so it is important not to let elitist sensibilities intrude on these moments.  In hindsight, it was possible that the patron asking the question mentioned above was a freshman from a background that afforded little access to art.

Working at a reference desk, a person never knows what he or she may be asked.  A librarian must be ready at all times to answer any question with grace, protecting the dignity of the patron.  At times that means that, in a graceful way, we redirect the questions or the patrons themselves.  I remember another time at the same art college when someone wanted me to appraise a print.  Since it was a phone reference encounter, I did not see the print, but I was pretty sure that the artist in question did not produce prints.  Still, I kindly informed her that we do not appraise arts of work and referred her to a gallery.  No matter what the question, the librarian must be he epitome of hospitality and helpfulness.