Michael Karsten
Bachelors Degree
Interlibrary Loan Coordinator
Lake Forest College
What are your main duties at your library?
The managing of Donnelley and Lee Library’s Interlibrary Loan department.
What do you like best about your job?
Supervising and working with my student workers. I am blessed with having student workers from all parts of the world. Learning about them, where they are from, and their unique worldviews makes every year exciting.
What are you working on now that you’re excited about?
Unfortunately the global pandemic has upended everything, so a lot of our plans got delayed. But, out of this misfortune there has been a silver lining. I have been helping other departments across the college with projects. Meeting new colleagues and working outside my normal comfort zone has been quite exciting.
What do libraries mean to you?
Libraries to me are one of our greatest creations. A place filled with knowledge and wonder accessible to everyone no matter their background. Libraries impart wisdom and feed curiosity. Those who choose to use them are better for it.
What do you think is the most important challenge or opportunity for libraries going forward?
Adapting and finding its place in an evolving digital world. The erosion of faith in objective information and mistrust of scholars and experts. The growing competition of “informational” sources that reinforce audiences’ worldviews.
Describe yourself in three words.
Industrious, compassionate, and loyal.
What are you reading, watching, or listening to right now?
I am currently reading Say Nothing by Patrick Keefe, which is a true story murder mystery during the Troubles. It is quite a fascinating read. As an avid fan of podcasts, I am currently enjoying Dan Carlin’s “Hardcore History” podcast. For anyone who loves history and storytelling, this is a must-listen podcast. I just finished watching the new show “Ted Lasso.” I cannot recommend this show enough. Easily one of the best shows I have seen in years. If anyone needs a good heartwarming laugh and feel-good experience, this is the show for you.
What are your hobbies?
I enjoy sports, movies, reading, working out, history, games, anime, internet deep dives, hiking, podcasts, discussions, and unfortunately for me Da Bears.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself.
I randomly met John Kerry the summer after he ran for President on a subway in Paris during the Tour de France.
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