I recently went to the public library to request an out of print book from 1963. The librarian asked me for the ISBN number to start with. Then, without one available, I offered up the title and author.

She quickly informed me that she didn't have the book. I said that I already knew that by my own browsing and desired that she would see if it were available via inter-library loan. At this point, she hit a few keys on her keyboard and turned the monitor to face me.

Rather than seeing the library database, I saw Amazon.com on her screen! She inquired if I was familiar with it and would I consider buying the book. I told her I was doing research on a topic and if she could get the book via inter-library loan, I might considering obtaining a copy for myself after reading/evaluating the borrowed copy. After getting more demanding, she has me fill out an info. card.

Well, the book arrives within ten days, and she calls me out-of-state on my cell while I am on vacation. I tell her I'll be home in a few days. She then informs me there is a problem--I no longer have a valid library card to check out the book! Click!