three-way stops

canon digital rebel xsi

I am not sure how long 3-way stops have been around, but it seems like they have become commonplace at shopping malls in recent years. The idea is that traffic coming into the mall does not have to stop, while all other sides must wait. It reminds of of the song, Hotel California - you can check in anytime you like, but you can never leave.

They make my blood pressure rise. Is it really that difficult of a concept? They may not be fair, but I can't believe how hard it is for people to grasp. They seem to be there so that drivers using the protected turn signal, do not end up blocking the intersection, although technically that would be violating the rules of the road.

There is one particular 3-way stop on the way into the main branch of Newport Beach Library that makes me want to scream. Actually, I usually do scream. Although there is a sign telling people that traffic does not stop, the majority of people seem to ignore it. The result is that people who are supposed to stop, don't; whiles those that have the right of way, stop. Hilarity does not ensue.

Often when we leave the library, we go to the shopping center across the way. Sprinkles cupcakes is there, as is Sur La Table. To get there we have to go across this 3-way stop. I feel like I am putting my life in jeopardy. I think I hold my breath, the entire way across.

If there is a car behind me, they often beep at me, believing that I am turning right, and shouldn't have any problem with the oncoming vehicles. I usually flip them off. It is ugly. But really, what is the rush? Honestly I am surprised I have never seen an accident at the intersection.

As the holidays approach, I know it will only get worse. I have a feeling this is why we avoid the library until after the new year.


on the night stand :: Big Frog Can't Fit In by Mo Willems.

on hold

I love libraries. I love books, so the idea that there are these places where anyone with a library card can borrow reading materials, whether for research, school, or just the pleasure of reading, fills me with joy.

Currently though, I am a bit annoyed with my library. Their hold policy is driving me a bit batty. I currently have a book checked out, and someone has placed a hold on it. I get that it is not my book, and I need to learn to share, but the thing is there are four other copies of the book at the library. Despite this the system will not allow me to renew it.

I confess that I once placed a book on hold that was on the shelf. I did it because I had learned about the book from a popular newsletter, and figured I would not be the only one looking for it.

I called and asked about the hold issue and was told that the person in charge of doing the hold requests wasn't coming in until after 5pm. Normally she comes in earlier. I was told to try to renew the book again later today or tomorrow.

Of course when I just tried, the hold was still there, as were the four copies on the shelf. I don't want to have to argue over a twenty-five cent fine - it sounds petty - but really it is the principle of the thing. I don't want to pay for someone else's laziness.

Even worse the library just paid a large sum of money to update its system. So far, I am underwhelmed. Initially it actually checked in books that were checked out to both me and B. When we brought this to the attention of the library staff, they didn't seem too concerned. Then again, maybe this is something built into the system to pay for it. Really though the solution is charging a small fee for hold requests.

on the night stand :: Ordinary Sparkling Moments