The Laughing Wolf

Overheard At Barnes & Noble

Yesterday, I had to go look for some books for business, and thought to take the time to try and find a few others I want to read. As I was browsing around the customer service center at the nearby Barnes and Noble, I was treated to a very interesting conversation by two of the staff. These two were apparently tired of questions and accusations about Unfit for Command and related books. This turned into a screed of sorts about books, booksellers, plots by “millionaire Republican publishers” and a general teardown of customers. It is one thing to make fun of customers in private, but to do so loudly in front of other customers is more than a bit rude – and stupid. Later, I approached one of them to ask for a trashcan in which to dispose of my finished coffee, and thought I was going to have to produce my papers. Attitude to spare. Since I don’t have cash to spare, and hate to think what was said about a customer who dared ask for the ability to throw something away, I think I will do most of my book shopping elsewhere. Think there is another B&N closer to my cousin’s, maybe there. Maybe the competition. Anywhere without the attitude.

LW