You have a zipper *how* long?

Last night I went down to the medical library to photocopy some primary literature for my lab report. For some reason, the medical school library does not have photocopiers on each floor and the nearest one was next to the Library assistance desk. This one clerk did not have a "library voice." I think I heard all the latest CNN headlines while I was sitting there, taking notes. And then, this...

Library Clerk: Do you know where I can buy a three-foot long zipper?
Library Clerk II: hmmm...walmart?
Library Clerk: Really?
Library Clerk II: I think so.

Time passes. I head to the desk to put money on my copy card.

Library Clerk: Say, are you a St. Louis native?
Me: uhm, no. Sorry.
Llibrary Clerk: Oh, well do you know where I could buy a three-foot long zipper.
Me: uhm, not really. Have you tried an online fabric store?
Library Clerk: hrm.

Now, what in the world does this guy need a three-foot long zipper for? is he making a trenchcoat or something?

Time passes.

Phone conversation
Library Clerk: Hi, I'm wondering, do you carry three-foot long zippers?
Library Clerk: mmhmm, mmhmm, do you?!
Library Clerk: Wonderful!!
Library Clerk: So, how long is your longest zipper?
Library Clerk: mmhm...SIX FEET?! YOU HAVE A SIX FOOT LONG ZIPPER?!?
Library Clerk: Really? In stock?
Library Clerk: I'll be down on Friday!
Hangs up

Library Clerk: Hot diggity damn! A six-foot zipper! She [Clerk II] was right!

The whole thing was kind of bizzare.