Location

Suffolk, VA

Are you a

Librarian

Name of Your Library (if applicable):

Suffolk Public Library

Library Website:

https://www.suffolkpubliclibrary.com/

Blog or Personal/Professional Website:

https://anthrodendum.org/

Twitter or other URL:

https://@MattThompsonSPL

About Me:

Hi, my name is Matt Thompson and I am Community Engagement Librarian at Suffolk Public Library in Suffolk, VA. I've been here three years and prior to that I was at the Mariners' Museum Library in Newport News, VA, where I did special collections cataloging for three years on an IMLS. My previous career was in academics, I have a doctorate in anthropology from UNC. Some of current projects include teaching an free, online English class for adults. I run a program that drops off WiFi devices in local city parks. I'm a regular on our bookmobile and I lead a time that regularly walks around our surrounding neighborhood here in downtown Suffolk, greeting people and picking up litter. I create partnerships between my library and local small business, community organizations, and other city depts. I also do original research projects on our community and report back to staff. I have a cool job, I get to do lots of cool stuff.