Today we are starting a new feature to help you better get to know the knowledgeable, helpful, and friendly staff of the Seeley G. Mudd Library. Our first featured staff person is Susan Goeden, who works back in Technical Services as the cataloging assistant.
What exactly does a cataloger do, you may ask? Susan enters a data record for every book and DVD that is ordered by, or donated to, the library into the library catalog. You can occasionally find her searching the library stacks in the midst of a cataloging project. Read on to get to know a little more about Susan.
How long have you been working at the Mudd Library?
I started at the Mudd as the library secretary in December of 2009, and have been the cataloging assistant since January of 2012.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
Having the opportunity see each and every new book and DVD that comes into the library, as well as the chance to stay abreast of what’s new in the publishing world.
Share something you’ve done at work that has made you proud.
I created comprehensive procedure manuals for both the library secretary and cataloging assistant positions. [Note from Holly, the current library secretary: These arduous tasks have benefitted not only Susan in her work, but have served to support the cohesiveness of the entire library and have ensured that all of her successors will be up for the difficult challenge of filling her shoes.]
Where did you get your degree?
I earned a BA in Economics from Northwestern University in Evanston, IL.
What are your hobbies?
I enjoy knitting, cooking, and reading (historical fiction, especially). I also admit to an office supply addiction.
What’s the last book you read that you couldn’t put down?
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn.
What are your favorite bands or performers?
Yo-Yo Ma, Dar Williams, and Jack Johnson.
List your favorite blogs and/or magazines.
I love magazines. The New Yorker, The Atlantic, and cooking magazines are at the top my list, but, really, I’ll read anything.
What groups and/or organizations are you active in (on or off campus)?
I am the scholarship advisor for the Lawrence chapter of Kappa Alpha Theta. I belonged to the sorority as an undergrad and wanted give back with the little free time I have. It is a lot of fun to spend time with the girls- especially since I live with all boys [see below]. I also volunteer for the Appleton North High School Booster Club.
Tell us about your family
I have been happily married for 21 years to Eric, a manufacturing operations management consultant, and have two sons in high school, Gunnar and Travis.
We hope you have enjoyed “meeting the staff” of the Seeley G. Mudd Library. Stay tuned for our next installment.