I can't recall if I've told this story before (though I've meant to for a while now), but it illustrates what having a bit of authority can do to some folks. Tell me if you disagree with the following statement: Rules are for a reason, and if the reason for a particular rule doesn't exist in a specific case, then it's redundant. Case in point: I used to work in my local central library, and within a few years of leaving (but still a regular visitor), I decided to join the library's record department, so I filled out the form and submitted it to the female assistant behind the desk.
She'd worked there when I did and knew me, but asked "Do you have any ID?" I was taken slightly aback by her question and replied "No, but you know who I am and have my relevant personal details on file as a former employee, so isn't that enough?" "Rules are rules!" she responded flatly. I tried approaching the matter from a logical standpoint (often a difficult thing with a woman). "Yes," I said, "but rules are usually for a reason. In this case, it's so that a complete stranger can't give you a false name and address and walk out with a couple of LPs which you'll never see again. As you already know who I am and have my information on file because I once worked here, then surely that particular rule isn't applicable in this case?".
She stuck to her guns, so I asked for one of the chief librarians, who, when I explained the situation, said "Nae bother, Gordie!" and approved my application. I'd say that was simply a triumph for common sense, but perhaps some of you are thinking "The woman was only doing her job, there was no need to go over her head!" However, you weren't there! I could see that she was enjoying having power over me and was being a complete jobsworth merely for the sake of it. I call it the 'traffic warden mentality' - someone with a wee bit of power who abuses it simply to feed their ego and to feel important.
Ever been in a similar situation? The comments section eagerly awaits your rapid response.
