Stacks Adventure

Long time no write! It has been a busy few weeks for me, so much so that I have abandoned writing my weekly blog. My last blog briefly discussed my adventures in the stacks at U of D-Mercy’s library. I needed a book from their library to use for my philanthropy discussion. Initially, when I called to make certain they had the book I was informed that they don’t pull books for patrons. There, patrons are responsible for pulling books themselves which differs from WSU’s library policies and/or rules. Never did I imagine having to work so hard to obtain this book!

First, I arrive at U of D and realize that I’m a tad bit confused about gaining access onto their campus. Luckily, someone who worked at the University was kind enough to “let me in.” Once inside, I was impressed by the overall feel and presence of the college campus. Despite being located in Detroit, U of D successfully manages to separate itself from the urban community to ensure a safe and academic-spirited environment.

Next, it was easier to find their library than it was to get inside the University’s campus! The reference librarian told me I could find the book I needed in the basement. To my surprise, the University of Detroit-Mercy has crank shelving which enables stacks to be rolled open or closed and is ideal for small spaces. I’ve seen at least one library’s use of crank shelving and I was very impressed at its usefulness. However, I have never used crank shelving and found it to be very intimidating in this already unfamiliar library.

Unfortunately, my ignorance in properly using the crank may have lead to it bending. I kept turning and turning it so much that one of the pieces was bent and would not move. Eventually, once I tired of my failed attempts to open the shelves, common sense kicked in and told me to go ask for help! The circ student assistant, politely, came down to help me in obtaining my book. It should be mentioned that as she and I were walking back towards the stacks, I passed a pretty important sign. The sign was indicating how to use the crank shelving, and I completely bypassed it on my first trip down to the basement.

In about five minutes, she too couldn’t open the stacks and realized that one of the pieces was bent. She went upstairs to alert someone of the problem and I stood downstairs pondering what would happen next. Uncertain about whether or not she was going to return with someone who could get me the book, I took matters into my own hands! I began moving books around to determine if my book would be at the bottom or at the top of the shelves.

My hard work paid off because not only did I get the book I needed, but I got it before the student and her supervisor made it back to assist me. They were both amazed, especially her supervisor that I was able to obtain the book! Further self praise was needed as I quickly stated; “yes I just used my cell phone as a flashlight and was able to locate where the book would be on the shelves!” Ironically, what I failed to mention was that I probably broke their crank, how I uncaringly stood on their shelves, and re-arranged their books to get what I needed!

All in all, I’d say it was worth it! My philanthropy discussion went very well and that book was one of my main resources. Perhaps, the University of Detroit-Mercy should re-consider going to pull books for their patrons…This is no excuse for my alleged destruction of their property, only an observation…