Stop… Thinking

Our public library branch adjoins a small square. The square is designated as a shared space, meaning that traffic can use it as a thoroughfare, but the speed limit is 10 km/h, pedestrians have right of way, and they cannot stop there at all for any reason. There are multiple road signs conveying all these.

Customer: *Pointing at shared space.* “Can I park there?”

Me: “No. And if the parking wardens see your car there, they will ticket it.”

Customer: “But there are no “No Parking” signs anywhere.”

Me: *Points at the sign.* “That’s your sign right there.”

Customer: “But that’s a “No Stopping” sign.”

Me: “And what is one of the things you do when you park your car?”