Note that in four other fiction books in this survey, the librarian is teamed with one or more cats: Library Lil, Aunt Chip and the Great Triple Creek Dam Affair, Sorry, Miss Folio! and The Library. What is it that makes librarians identify with (or be identified with) cats? Is it that cats are aloof, only come when they are called, and seem more intelligent than everyone else? And why should there be a movie devoted to the theme of cats in libraries?
Roma, Gary. Puss in Books: Adventures of the Library Cat [video]. [Waltham, MA]: Iron Frog Productions, 1997.
Please note that the video cited here was only available on this website for a limited time, as partial fulfillment of a course assignment. Those interested in learning more about the film should contact the publisher, Iron Frog Productions.
Puss in Books is a short documentary on the presence of cats in libraries. Interestingly, there are many who feel that their presence is vital to the well-being of the library atmosphere. While the video is listed in the Public Library of Des Moines as a children's video, it is really better suited for those considering a career in libraries. Much of the video consists of interviews with librarians, as well as discussions of real conflicts which have arisen (some involving death threats) in situations involving library cats. The selected passage includes the statement of purpose from the Library Cat Society, as well as a negative response from a librarian. Also included is some of the story concerning the two most famous library cats, Baker and Taylor.
Further information on library cats can be found at the Iron Frog Productions website.
Complements, compliments, annoyances: Matthew Z. Heintzelman