We are delighted to welcome Lauren Zuchowski Longwell, our new Special Collections and University Archivist, to the William H. Hannon Library staff. We asked Lauren to share some information about herself and her role here at LMU.
Q: What drew you to the world of archives and libraries?
I have always been a big reader and love visiting the library to pick up new books. I became really interested in ideas of access and preservation while earning my B.A. in art history but didn’t connect these interests to libraries until I heard an art-historian-turned-librarian discuss her career. I focused on archives because I love making primary source materials available to researchers. One of my favorite parts of being an archivist is that I am always learning new things when processing a collection or working with a researcher.
Q: What about this new role are you most excited about?
I am really looking forward to classroom instruction. I’m very excited that the collection is incorporated into different classes and that I can help create a unique learning experience for students. I wish that I would have had that experience as an undergrad!
Q: What is the last film/show you watched or book you read?
I recently just finished the newest season of Black Mirror on Netflix. I love it but the episodes are a very dark take on modern society and technology. I basically alternated between episodes of Black Mirror and HGTV renovation shows (my guilty pleasure: it is my dream to one day be on the Property Brothers).
Q: What is something about you that would surprise us to learn?
I learned to sew at a young age. I started because I wanted to make my own stuffed animals and tote bags but now I mostly sew clothing for myself. I like to visit fabric shops whenever I travel and have ended up with a pretty big collection of different fabrics at home!
In her new position as archivist at LMU, Lauren brings a wealth of experience, including working with the archival collections at the Japanese American National Museum and as the sole librarian at the Norton Simon Museum. Thank you for sharing your story with us, Lauren!
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