Frances O'Brien, devout Catholic and panic disorder sufferer, is back at the Middleton Interactive Learning Centre. But being Head Librarian of this outer suburban library is harder than ever.
With the official opening only one week away, Frances - newly reinstated Head Librarian - feverishly regains control of her domain, ordering the staff to help stack the books, unpack boxes and remove a pig's head which is lodged in the Returns Chute. Which they don't.
The day of the new library's official opening arrives and Frances, anxiously rehearses her speech, determined to use the occasion to re-stamp her authority.
Frances is tired and even more irritable than usual. She's not sleeping, drinking too much and not able to concentrate on very much at work. She doesn't even seem to notice that Nada can't get anyone to use the Culture Pod.
To her absolute shock and horror, Christine goes into premature labour a month early. The Caesarean delivery she has booked is rendered useless, the labour ward is full and Christine is designated to the Birth Centre.
Frances's day doesn't start well, with an interview at Bernadette's new school ending badly when Frances is blamed for Bernadette's behavioural problems.
