Meet our Staff: Gwen Kempe

Meet our Staff, UW Tacoma Library Logo, image of a white woman, image of Snoqualmie library buildingWeek 3 of the Quarter, Huskies! One day at a time — you’ve got this!

Normally you get to know our UW Tacoma Library staff by stopping by our desks in SNO and TLB. Since that isn’t possible at the moment, we wanted to introduce you to our staff in a series of blog posts.

Remember, we are here for you via 24/7 chat, drop-in help, or you can schedule an appointment with your liaison librarian.

Meet Gwen!

How do you work with faculty and students in your current role at the UW Tacoma Library? 

I am currently work with faculty and students by buying e-books when they are available to place on course reserve for classes for the Fall quarter and beyond.

What drew you to working in libraries? 

I love libraries and spend my weekends going to other libraries.  I love working with new books and databases and all the opportunities for learning. Working with students and faculty has been a pleasure, and I really appreciate my co-workers.

What parts of your job are you most excited about?

I am most excited about finding e-books of textbooks that students can use during the pandemic.

How has your job shifted because of COVID-19?

Before the pandemic, I worked with mostly print materials, and curating the new book shelf. Because of COVID I’ve switched to looking for e-books instead of print materials to place on course reserve.

Have you read or watched anything good lately? 

I have recently watched 13th by Ava DuVernay which was excellent.I’ve also watched The Big Sick which was really good. I am also enjoying watching the new mystery on PBS Van der Valk.

 

 

Any advice for UWT students?

Make an appointment with your librarian for your subjects online during the pandemic. They can help you find materials and online resources for your papers that are difficult to find. They are one of the greatest parts of being a UW student!