Joe Bob’s Thought of the Day: Library Edition
Added 2022-09-01 22:06:23 +0000 UTCThe name "National Archives" doesn't normally inspire fear in the hearts of men, but when I was researching my most recent book, I spent several weeks in the Clinton Library in Little Rock, which is administered by the National Archives. I spent about seven hours a day going through official folders full of government documents that had been produced in response to my Freedom of Information Act request.
While I was reading, scanning and taking notes on the documents, I was continually watched by an archivist who was sitting about 12 feet away from me. At various times, I was reprimanded for the following offenses:
* removing a staple from a document instead of carrying the document to the archivist and asking her to remove it
* crimping the corner of a document so that I could scan multiple pages at a time
* positioning my laptop so that the archivist was unable to see the document while I was reading it
* carrying a ball point pen into the research library instead of leaving it in my security locker
* having more than one folder at a time removed from the shelves
If I could come up with a motto for the National Archives, it would be “The document is sacred. Every document. All documents. They belong to the United States. They do not belong to whoever happens to be using them at the moment."
Do not underestimate these people. They are fierce and relentless.
Comments
Was this for the Iridium book? When I last saw you, you most graciously signed a copy for my friend, but the line was crazy and it occurred to me afterwards that I never even mentioned how much I Really Enjoyed the read! Excellent non-fiction, Sir! It was Dense with facts and info, and yet an entertaining page-turner... I was reminded more than once of my time reading The Cuckoo's Egg - another Awesome read! OK, I'm done... :)
Thomas Backman
2022-09-03 06:43:36 +0000 UTCYep!
2022-09-03 06:38:57 +0000 UTCThis whole thought.... It's going to be a really interesting few weeks/months. Though, I hope this "season finale" ends on a good note and not a cliffhanger. Also, don't mess with the National Archives.
2022-09-02 02:55:45 +0000 UTCLove the Food for thought which you masterfully weave it ever so delicately to connect to our most current water cooler discussions. Please keep these gems coming ❤️🤓
Joshua Sherwood
2022-09-02 00:57:54 +0000 UTCSounds like my work study job when I worked as a TA in forensic science dept. Who staples on the right corner
2022-09-01 23:22:32 +0000 UTCJB topical and relevant as always. Was this for Eccentric Orbits?
2022-09-01 23:02:57 +0000 UTCThank you JB for slinging something other than bull crap! You are a treasure buddy! I bet even George Carlin would think so!
Jason O'Keefe
2022-09-01 22:43:27 +0000 UTC
