Surely An Exception Could’ve Been Made

I am a university tutor. I go to return a book at the uni library before my class. The library is on the other side of the substantial campus. It is 9:55 am, and there is a sign in front of the checkout counter that says the counter opens at 10:00 am.

Me: “Hey there, sorry to bother you. I did see the sign, but I have to be on the other side of campus in ten minutes. Can I return this book now?”

Librarian: “No, it’s not 10:00 am yet.”

Me: “Well, could I leave the book here and you return it at 10:00 am?”

Librarian: “No.”

Me: “Okay, then.”

I just stood there staring at her for several minutes until it was 10:00 am. Then, she accepted the book.

I did make it to class in time but was out of breath.