Who's Who?
Sometimes we have no idea how significant a small piece of information might be to someone. We all have different spheres that measure success or visibility in different ways, and we often aren’t familiar with those outside our own area of expertise.
I got a phone call the other day from a very old person. I couldn’t tell if it was a man or a woman, and the voice was shaky and slow.
“Do you have the 2006 Who’s Who in America?” they asked.
“Yes, we do. We have a subscription and receive all the volumes,” I said.
“I see.” Silence.
“Would you like me to look someone up for you?” I asked.
“Could you do that?” They sounded surprised and pleased. “I’m 91 years old and don’t drive anymore. That would be so kind of you.” They gave me the name, and off I went.
“I have it. The name you requested is in here; would you like me to read it to you?”
“You are so kind. Thank you.”
I read it. The person listed was a man, a composer of organ and choral music, winner of some prestigious awards as long ago as 1924. First a director of large church choirs, then a professorship at one of the local universities, and a local address.
“That’s all,” I said. “Would you like me to copy it and send it to you?”
“Why, yes - that would be wonderful.”
“All right, could I have your name and address?” I asked.
It was the name and address of the person listed in Who’s Who.
Being listed in there might not be important to me, but would a composer ever have heard of Library Journal? Seeing your name in print is a highlight at any time, especially if you are 91 and housebound.
It’s too bad there aren’t publications for great mail carriers, super tech people and heroic parents. All of us have our Who’s Who moments in someone’s life, in print or not. I’m thankful to have been a small part of this one. Congrats!
It's so nice to have you back! I was starting to wonder if you had soured on the profession or something had happened to you.
Thanks for all reminders of why what we do is worthwhile.
Posted by: Daniel Cornwall | December 20, 2006 at 03:48 PM
A nice story. I think most of us would feel pretty good about being in the "real Who's Who," Who's Who in America (or any of the Marquis Who's Whos). To *still* be there at age 91...that's pretty neat.
Oh, and what Daniel said about having you back.
Posted by: walt | December 20, 2006 at 05:04 PM
No doubt! Thanks for the reminder. May you and yours have an excellent holiday. Our love to the family! -PC
Posted by: Philip Cummings | December 20, 2006 at 07:56 PM
I love your stories! It's nice to see another one pop up on your blog.
Posted by: Beth | December 21, 2006 at 06:27 AM
I like your post and style of narrative. You are doing what is called evidence based librarianship. You will enjoy reading my post on this similar stuff: www.http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=34240578&postID=116024122704342681
Happy holidays.
I wish to share something with you as a librarian who believes in sharing knowledge 24 X 7. My 2007 resolution is a friendly deal to get more comments at my blog and promptly reciprocate.
Best wishes for 2007.
Posted by: Dr. Mohamed Taher | December 26, 2006 at 03:15 PM
Hooray, glad you are back. I only just found your blog and then thought you had stopped writing it. I was disappointed. I loved this post as much as the others. Lovely.
Posted by: Sara | December 28, 2006 at 09:56 AM
Thank you for your kind comments, everyone. We have had three people out with pneumonia at our house in the last five weeks, and it has slowed me up some. All are on the mend, and I am hoping to post more often.
Best wishes for a bright new year,
FGL
Posted by: Feelgood Librarian | December 29, 2006 at 01:32 PM
Sorry to inform you, but you've been tagged by the 5 things meme.
Yes, I'm the one who has tagged you.
Posted by: Vampire Librarian | January 24, 2007 at 04:22 PM
What a fantastic story. I am a writer for Gilbert Guide (the foremost resource for everything senior care), and I've written quite a bit about quality of life for seniors. It’s sad to see so many older people isolated and homebound, especially when they've lived such rich lives and have so much to share. I can only imagine how wonderful it felt to be part of that kind of joy. Please do keep me updated if you post any other stories about seniors and the great things they've accomplished!
Lori Deschene
Gilbert Guide
Posted by: Lori Deschene | January 30, 2007 at 10:40 AM