If The Customer Literally Can’t See You We Call That A Win

My library has to check every patron’s vaccination status or negative test upon them entering the library. We put a table and chair up at the entrance, but we can’t access the library system from there other than the website and catalog.

There’s a self-checkout machine right next to this makeshift desk and the circulation desk is just a few feet further into the room; you can see it from the entrance.

A lady’s checking out books at the machine and, after getting her receipt, tuts and turns to me.

Patron: “There’s something off about my account. Can you look it up in your computer?”

Me: “I’m afraid that’s not possible with the computer I have, but my coworker at the circulation desk will be happy to help you.”

Patron: *Rolls her eyes* “There’s nobody at the circulation desk.”

I look over at my coworker, who overheard us and is looking at me, nonplussed.

Me: *Pointing* “Uh, yes, my coworker is right there.”

Patron: “No, she isn’t. I just looked.”

Coworker: “I’m right here. How can I help you?”

Patron: “Well, she’s hiding.”

I am at a loss for words. I can see my coworker very clearly from where I’m sitting and the view’s even more straight from where the patron’s standing.

Patron: “Anyway, it doesn’t matter. Do you have any hand sanitizer?”

Me: “We do; there’s a bottle at the circulation desk.”

The patron rolled her eyes and left without another word.