Read the excerpt from “A Poem for My Librarian, Mrs. Long.” Mrs. Long asking what are you looking for today
When I wanted Leaves of Grass or alfred north whitehead

The allusion in this excerpt helps the reader understand that

the speaker enjoyed a variety of books and authors.
Mrs. Long was limited in what her library could offer.
the speaker had trouble reading more difficult books.
Mrs. Long shared the speaker’s love of poetry.