Who is Big Al?

(Could Big Al be Tuppy's Alias?  We haven't known him that long after all.... hmmmmm.)

Just as I realized the other day that I had not shared an Anonymous Comment in awhile here on our humble blog, I also realized that it's been a while since I've shared a funny I Work at the Public Library story, too. 

It's hard to keep up with all the weirdish things that happen at a Public Library.  It is amazing sometimes what people will say or do during the hours of a regular workday.  These kinds of stories can really boost your listenership at parties, so keep that in mind-- if you are looking for a job that will make you more popular with your friends, keep your local library in mind.

So, I worked this past Saturday.  Since I am a Manager, of course I am often called to the desk for colorful characters who walk in our doors.  This is why I get paid the big bucks, right?

The particular patron I was called out for was a man who was trying to obtain information about his library fines.  He had been sent to the District Justice by one of our affiliated libraries, and he was confused by this.  I went out and explained it to him and as I was writing down the address and phone number of that particular library for him, I smiled at him, happy that the experience had gone so smoothly. 

"Why did you just smile?  Huh?  What's that smile for?" he shouted. 

"Well," I told him, "I thought this was going to be difficult to explain, and then it wasn't.  I was smiling at you for being understanding and kind about it."

"Oh," he said.  I had disarmed him.  But now, he was sure I looked familiar.

"OH!" he said, smiling now himself, and very biggly so, "I remember you!" 

I looked at him quizzically.

"You used to work in that place over on the eastside, huh, but now you moved up, huh, you moved up.  Good for you.  I mean, before I went to jail, I remembered you from over there."

"Ummmmm.... I think you might have me confused with someone else.  I've only worked here for a long time.  Like 12 years.  And I never worked on the east side.  Nope."

He nodded his head knowingly.  "Uh-huh," he said, actually slapping a hand to his forehead.  "I know you.  I remember you and Big Al!!  How is Big Al, huh?  You still see him around if you go over there to the eastside, you still see him?"

Really?  Was he talking to me?  Most of you haven't seen me a whole lot, but I don't look like someone who knows someone named Big Al.  Unless Big Al is a Rabbit.

"Oh, Big Al," he was off in his own little world now.  "Big Al, he's quite a guy, isn't he.  We was in jail together for some of the same time you know, that's how's I know ya, you know, huh?"

"That must be it," I gave in. 

"Well, thanks for the info," he said taking the piece of paper I handed him to take care of his library fines.  He leaned in a whispered, "And you tell Big Al I said hey next time you see him, won't you, honey?"

"I sure will," I said.  "I sure will."

So, this here is a Shout Out to Big Al.  Whoever you are, wherever you are:  Random Public Library Patron Guy who you served time with in prison?  He says "Hey."

My work is done.