There could be a case made that learning out of books does not a farmer make. Eddie cultivated a take-charge streak in himself, thanks to business, but maybe people don't want to be 'bossed around' by someone with limited experience.

People have been nice so far, but Eddie is still on guard for a call-out. Hence the nerves.

But her friendly smile does make him feel better at the moment. "I'm Eddie, by the way. And, no offense, but a library without reference materials sounds weird."