Written by Mackenzie Manley, Content Specialist, Downtown Main Library
A library is run by people working in many different roles. They’re how the Library connects community members to books, resources, and more. Go inside the day-to-day lives of our staff with our series Spend a Day with a Library Worker.
Andy Sutthoff says every day is a new challenge in his role as administrative coordinator. During a typical work week, Andy’s tasks include providing support to both the Board of Trustees and the Eva Jane Romaine Coombe Director. He also manages the Library’s pool of customer service substitutes, and that task, he says, is what really drives him.
“I have a great group of staff that I employ and work with,” says Andy. “I want to make sure that I give them the best experience at the branches.”
Customer service substitutes fill in wherever is needed across all 41 Library locations. Substitutes work flexible hours and help meet customers’ needs, whether that be locating a book, checking out materials, printing, or other tasks.
When Andy hires a new substitute, they are trained at a branch location to learn the Library’s computer system, how to best help customers, and more. Valerie Perry is one substitute who works alongside Andy.
“You get to see a little bit of difference from one community to the next,” says Valerie. “I’m comfortable anywhere, and I can talk to anyone. I love being able to help whoever comes through the door with whatever they need.”
Along with coordinating substitutes, Andy provides administrative support to Paula Brehm-Heeger, the Eva Jame Romaine Coombe Director, by assisting with her schedule, board meeting document preparation, meeting preparation, and discussing how to make the customer service substitute program better.
“At CHPL, we focus on good customer service, commitment to our communities, and being an all-around pleasant person,” says Andy.
Interested in working at the Library? Visit CHPL.org/jobs to view current job openings.
Mackenzie Manley is currently reading “The Disaster Tourist” by Yun Ko-eun.
Add a comment to: Spend a Day with a Library Worker: Andy Sutthoff