Library Limelight: Joan Dudzinski, Information Services Supervisor, Cumming Library

Library Limelight is intended to be a quick read to help FCPL patrons get to know our librarians, staff, and volunteers. We hope you enjoy learning about the people who make our libraries great!

Joan Dudzinski
Information Services Supervisor
Cumming Library

Where is your hometown?

Stow, Massachusetts. It's a small New England town of 7,000 with dozens of apple orchards and horse farms.

How long have you been at FCPL?

I am going on my eighth year now and I've worked at three of our four library branches. 

What other jobs have you had at FCPL?

I started as a volunteer helping get the Hampton Park branch ready to open. Since then, I have been a Collection Support Aide, Information Specialist, Circulation Supervisor, and now Information Services Supervisor.

Why did you choose to work in a library?

Not to sound cliché, but books and learning were always a huge part of my life. I came to the library after many years in the private sector, and when the opportunity arose, I found just the right fit for my interests and skills in the library.

Describe your job in five words or less.

Learning, teaching, listening, reading, and programming.

What is unique about your job?

Working with programs, I am involved in finding other ways the library can enhance the lives of our patrons.

What is your favorite part of your job?

The best part of the job is that it is always changing. Every day brings new experiences, and as the community grows, the library adapts with new resources and services to meet everyone’s needs.

What’s the most interesting place you’ve lived or traveled?

I took a 10-day trip to Egypt. I’ve always been intrigued with anything Egyptian. It was amazing to see the pyramids and sail down the Nile, and the people were so friendly and helpful. I would love to go back and dive in the Red Sea someday.

What are your hobbies?

Reading and book collecting, spending time with my furry kids (Dudley, Lena, and Cindy Lou Who), and travelling whenever I get a chance.

What are you reading right now?

I just finished The Flying Mountain by Christoph Ransmayr that was written in blank verse, which suited the recollections of the main character

Paper books or eBooks?

My preference is paper, but I do occasionally read eBooks on my Nook. My commute is too short for audio books, but I wish I’d used them when I had an hour and a half commute across Atlanta every day!