Before Google…. there was a Librarian to ask!

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Several weeks ago the folks at the iconic 42nd Street building of the New York Public Library in
Manhattan happened upon a box of old reference questions. These questions were ranging from the
1940s to the 1980s – asked by patrons. Spokesperson for the library, Angela Montefinise points out, the questions are compelling. And perhaps they speak to a gentler, more naïve
time. Perhaps they don’t.
Here are a few gems, lightly edited for
clarity:

• Is it proper to go to Reno alone to get a divorce? (1945)
• I just saw a mouse in the kitchen. Is DDT OK to use? (1946)
• What is the life span of an eyelash? Answer: Based on the book Your
  Hair & Its Care, it’s 150 days. (1946)
• What does it mean when you dream of being chased by an elephant?
  (1947)
• Where can I rent a beagle for hunting? (1963)
• Can you tell me the thickness of a U.S. Postage stamp with the glue on
  it? Answer: We couldn’t tell you that answer quickly. Why don’t you try the Post
  Office? Response: This is the Post Office. (1963)
• Does the New York Public Library have a computer for use by the public?
  Answer: No sir! (1966)

And there was this typewritten note found on a cataloging card:

• Telephone call mid-afternoon New Year’s Day, 1967: Somewhat uncertain
  female voice: “I have two questions. The first is sort of an etiquette one. I
  went to a New Year’s Eve party and unexpectedly stayed over. I don’t really know
  the hosts. Ought I to send a thank-you note? Second. When you meet a fellow and
  you know he’s worth twenty-seven million dollars — because that’s what they told
  me, twenty-seven million, and you know his nationality, how do you find out his
  name?”