Library Staff profiles

Have you ever wanted to find out more about the people who work at Avery Hill and Stockwell Street Library? Of course you have! We continue our weekly profiles of the various staff you may spot or speak to at our libraries. Find out what they do, both inside and outside of working at the University of Greenwich!

This week, we profile Karen Richardson, our Academic Subject Librarian for Computing, Mathematical Science and Creative Professions and Digital Arts. She is based at the Stockwell Street Library.

Karen Richardson

HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED AT THE UNIVERSITY/LIBRARY?

I believe I’m getting close to my long service award, but can’t remember exactly as I started on short term contracts as a shelver.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR ROLE IN THE LIBRARY?

I support students in Computing, Mathematical Science and Creative Professions and Digital Arts, as well as working with my colleagues to make sure the library as a whole runs smooth.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT WORKING IN THE LIBRARY?

The light bulb moment when students suddenly get it all, and seeing them graduate.

WHICH BOOKS IN THE LIBRARY DO YOU FIND MOST INTERESTING?

Always a tricky one, just like what’s your favourite film… Wait! That’s question seven! I think most areas interest me, though I am drawn to the science and maths good reads that try to explain these subjects in simple and fun ways, such as How to Teach Your Dog Quantum Physics by Chad Orzel and How Long is a Piece of String by Robert Eastaway and Jeremy Wyndham.

WHERE IS YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE IN GREENWICH TO EAT/HAVE LUNCH?

I like the international food stalls in Greenwich Market and Noodle Time. If I’m short on cash, I go to the Student Union bar which also has pool tables!

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO OUTSIDE OF WORK?

Playing board games such Ticket to Ride, Settlers of Catan and Carcassonne (not the family staples such as Monopoly). I also play in a brass band and do gardening when I can.

FAVOURITE BOOK, MUSIC AND FILM?

For books, historical fantasies (there’s a few about libraries), science-fiction and historical ones about World War II celebrating the ingenuity of people – if you think that is an odd mix… so do I! I like a lot of different genres of music so my decision is based on the ones I feel most compelled to sing along to, which seem to be either ABBA, Queen or Annie Lennox. Finally, films – I guess if I am to narrow it down, the Star Trek and Indiana Jones series and comedies with Cary Grant in them.

WHERE IN THE WORLD WOULD YOU LIKE TO VISIT?

Still on my list are Ethiopia, Jordan and Machu Picchu (before an earthquake hits).

IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY SUPERHUMAN POWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

I would like to fly. You can go from A to B in a straight line and it would make up for being short!

HAVE YOU VISITED THE CUTTY SARK, NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUM, ROYAL OBSERVATORY AND QUEEN’S HOUSE?

I have been to the Observatory and the Museum, but not the Cutty Sark or the Queen's House, though I believe the latter has reopened following refurbishment and I am keen to see the new galleries!