Twenty years ago, on Aug. 15, 2005, Gwen Bumpers was hired as a part-time cataloger. She had just 4 months to learn everything before her supervisor retired in December. Cataloging is intensive, brainy, detail-oriented work. So, that was quite a feat! She was also working part-time at SWIC, so her work-week was about 50 hours long until she became our full-time Head of Technical Services in 2008. We’re so glad she hung in there!
She loves helping people, and she loves the library’s family environment. In 2009 her coworkers conspired with her family to throw a surprise baby shower for the arrival of her youngest son. They knitted little sweaters and pooled their funds to buy a portable playpen. That was sixteen years ago. Her son is now thinking about his own career. She told him that she enjoys going to work because the library is where she wants to be. Finding “that place” can lead to a meaningful and satisfying career.
As a passionate member of our administrative team who helps our patrons and handles every item in our collection, Gwen is part of what makes this library “that place” for all of us.
- Diana Sussman, Edwardsville Library Director
In what part of the library do you work and what do you do?
I work in the Technical Services Department, where my main role is cataloging. That means I handle everything from opening new boxes of materials, sorting and processing them, entering information into the catalog, and making sure each item is labeled, covered, and ready for the shelves. It’s behind-the-scenes work, but I love knowing that every book, DVD, or resource I prepare is headed into the hands of someone who will enjoy or need it.
What originally drew you to work at the library?
I’ve always loved books, organization, and learning, so the library seemed like the perfect place to combine those passions. When I was first hired, I was a student with a lot to learn, but the idea of being surrounded by knowledge and helping others access it excited me. I quickly discovered that working at the library wasn’t just about books—it was about connecting with people and serving the community.
What’s one moment that made you feel especially proud to work here?
There isn’t just one moment—there are many. From the excitement of a child finding their favorite book, to a parent locating the perfect research material for their child’s project, to grandparents exploring our programs with their grandkids. From helping a woman fax important documents to her doctor, to notarizing life-changing papers for someone in need, to assisting a couple as they register to vote. Each of these moments reminds me how many different ways the library serves our community. But most importantly, I’m proud that this is a place where the work environment feels like family—not just coworkers.
What project or initiative have you loved being part of?
I’ve loved being part of our efforts to make the library’s collection as responsive to our patrons as possible. One of my favorite things is the “Suggest an Addition” feature on our website—it’s a way for patrons to recommend new books or materials. I enjoy reviewing those suggestions, finding the right items, and knowing that we’re adding materials people truly want. I also enjoy being part of the NAACP branch in Edwardsville and having the opportunity to explore local Black history through oral interviews and newspaper archives here in the library. Sharing these discoveries on Facebook with the hashtag #LocalBlackHistoryEdwardsvilleIL has been such a joy. The rich history of this community is amazing, and I’m grateful to help preserve and highlight it.
How has your role evolved over the years?
When I was hired 20 years ago, I was a nervous and inexperienced student stepping into a brand-new world. My role as cataloger came with a steep learning curve, but I was blessed to have our resident cataloger, Angela—who was nearing retirement—take me under her wing. She taught me everything, from how to carefully cover books to how to line up call numbers with precision and clarity.
Three years later, I was promoted to Head of Technical Services, which meant stepping into the world of leadership. There were challenges as I found my footing in supervising, but it has been a complete joy to lead this incredible department. I still love the thrill of opening a new box, sorting the items, entering them into the catalog, placing them on the shelves, and later hearing a patron talk about how much they enjoyed or needed that very item. From ordering to cataloging to processing, it’s rewarding to know I’ve played a part in getting those materials into the hands of our community.
What’s one part of working here that people wouldn’t expect?
People are often surprised at how much time and care goes into preparing an item before it ever reaches the shelf. Our work in Technical Services is detailed and hands-on—everything from carefully unpacking and inspecting new materials, to covering books so they’re protected for years of use, to adding series spine labels so readers can easily find every title in a sequence. We make sure call numbers are perfectly lined up for clarity, barcodes are placed in consistent spots, and all catalog information is accurate so that when someone searches for an item, it appears exactly where it should. Every step is intentional, because we want each book, DVD, or other resource to look inviting, be easy to find, and stand the test of time in a busy library. In the end, it’s about giving patrons the best possible experience, so the moment they find what they’re looking for, they can simply enjoy it.
How has your time at the library influenced your perspective on books, information, or community?
Working here has shown me that a library is so much more than shelves of books—it’s a place where community happens. I’ve learned that access to information is powerful, but pairing that access with patience, kindness, and genuine conversation is what makes it meaningful. Over the years, I’ve had thought-provoking conversations with coworkers, shared in patrons’ excitement over discovering new series, and watched children grow into lifelong readers. Those moments have shaped not just how I see my job, but how I see the world.
Favorite book, author, or genre you’ve discovered while working here?
While working at the library, I discovered Amish fiction—a genre that focuses on the lives, culture, and community of the Amish people, often exploring themes of faith, family, and tradition. These stories typically follow a protagonist torn between their Amish upbringing and the modern world, raising questions of identity and belonging. Amish fiction, especially Amish romance, is known for wholesome, chaste relationships and a simpler way of life, offering readers a peaceful escape from the fast pace of the modern world. As I read more, I also learned that many of these stories aren’t completely true to real Amish life. Beverly Lewis was the first author I read in this genre and remains one of the best, but I also highly recommend Sarah Price’s Plain Fame series. Amish fiction may not always reflect reality, but it’s a beautiful form of escapism for those who need a gentle, faith-filled story.
What’s your dream addition to the library (could be tech, furniture, new collection)?
I would love to see a dedicated makerspace at the library—a place where creativity and innovation can come to life. Imagine a space with a small music recording studio, tools for 3D printing, a large-format printer for making banners or posters, sewing machines, and other crafting equipment. It would be a hub where people of all ages could explore new skills, bring their ideas to life, and collaborate on projects, all while having access to the resources and support of the library staff.
Looking ahead, what are you excited to see or do in the future here?
I’m excited to see how our library continues to evolve to meet the needs of our community. Whether it’s embracing new technology, introducing innovative programs, or expanding our collection based on patron suggestions, I look forward to helping our library remain a vibrant, essential place for everyone.
What does hitting this anniversary mean to you?
Reaching 20 years feels like such a full-circle blessing. It’s not just about longevity—it’s about legacy. I’ve grown in my career, adapted to changes in technology and location, and watched patrons (and even some coworkers) grow up before my eyes. Along the way, the people I work with have truly become like family. We share not only our daily tasks, but also a deep passion for the mission of the library within the Edwardsville community. Together, we celebrate successes, support one another through challenges, and keep our focus on serving our patrons with excellence. This milestone reminds me of God’s faithfulness and how grateful I am to do work that matters, day after day, in the heart of the community I have grown to love.