Howdy Y'all! Meet Curbside Larry.... We Got'em! #libraries #curbsidepickup pic.twitter.com/Rkvzrt3ScU
— Harris County Public Library (@harriscountypl) July 22, 2020
Like a lot of librarians and library staffers across the United States, I'm working from home. The adjustment has its challenges, but also opportunities to rethink how libraries can and should operate. For example: you want a 5:30 AM virtual reference appointment? Sure, I'll be there!
Alas, I don't have Curbside Larry's engaging personality. He sells what the Barbara Bush Branch Library of the Harris County Public Library (that's the Houston area) has for you. This punk ass book jockey talks like a stereotypical Texas car salesman offering crazy deals on the latest and classic models. Texas Monthly reports:
Curbside service at the Barbara Bush Branch Library was already robust when the character—played by library staffer John Schaffer—was created. But according to Clara Maynard, the branch’s manager, Curbside Larry has brought even more awareness to the curbside pickup option at the library—and he’ll continue to do so, as she says that this isn’t the last we’ll see of the character. Schaffer, she says, has received a well-deserved promotion, and will be spending more time as both Curbside Larry and other characters to bring even more attention to the Harris County Public Library.
-Thanks, Terry!