Secret Shopper

I went to a local branch that I have never been to before for this assignment.  I was worried that it would be obvious that I was a student so I really racked my brain for a reasonable request.  Ironically, I read a YA book about six months ago that I really liked but could not remember the title.  So I decided I would start there.

Upon entering the branch, I was able to see the circulation desk, the reference desk, and the children's reference desk.  I first walked around the branch to get a "feel" for the area.  This branch offered "read-a-like" book marks for popular authors like Nora Roberts, Jodi Piccoult, Danielle Steel, etc. 

I then approached the adult reference desk with my request.  I asked the young sitting at the desk for books that were similar to the YA book that I read a few months back.  She asked me what I liked about the book.  I told her that I could not remember the name of the book (which is true) but that it had Russian architecture on the cover and that it was a YA novel.  I also told her that the book was set in a distopian like Russia and that magic was involved.  I was able to see that she first went to Google and searched for YA books and Russia and Magic.  As she was scrolling down I saw a title that sounded familiar, Shadow and Bone. From there, she asked me what I liked about the book.  I told her that I love anything paranormal but also enjoy reading fiction that is inspired by historical Russia, particularly anything involving the Romanov's.

At this point, she asked me if I was familiar with library databases.  I lied and told her no.  She turned her computer towards me and showed me how to access Novelist.  She showed me how to search for Shadow and Bone read-a-likes and then how to search for books inspired by historical Russia.  I choose a couple that sounded good and she then showed me how to search the library catalog to see what branch had those books available.  None of the books that I was interested in were available at the branch that I was at so she showed me how to place a hold on those books and have them sent to the branch of my choice for pickup.  She then asked if there was anything else that she could do for me and also encouraged me to come back after reading the recommended books to let me know if I enjoyed them.

I was extremely impressed with the service that I received and was surprised at the length of time she spent with me trying to find books that I would enjoy.  I am also excited to read these new titles as I am always on the lookout for a new author!!