Getting to know our library student assistants

By Keyyatta Bonds '21, W&M Libraries Mosaic Diversity Intern

W&M Libraries is lucky to have many talented student employees. As a library student employee myself -- I am a Mosaic Diversity intern working in Swem Library's External Relations Office -- I decided to get to know miy fellow student assistants. I curated a list of questions asking students to reminisce on their childhood favorite books, give insight to their work at the library, and answer the heavily debated question of Coke vs. Pepsi.

Today's post will introduce Alden Coffin:

1. What is your year/grade? Graduate Student
2. What is your major? Law
3. Hometown? Rochester, NH
4. What library department do you work in? Circulation & Research
5. What do you like most about working at the library? The students and staff are amazing! Everybody is approachable, fun, and entertaining. Being a member of a team that supports our students' success is invigorating, and I, therefore, look forward to working my shifts!
6. What's your favorite spot to study at in Swem? I love the Botetourt Gallery area of the library.
7. What was your favorite childhood book and why? The Very Hungry Caterpillar – I loved the beautiful artwork!
8. What has been the best book you've read so far this year and why? R. Rubenstein's After Auschwitz: History, Theology and Contemporary Judaism. I have always been fascinated by theological and anthropological studies of Post-Holocaust Judaic communities and practice;  I was once considering going for a PhD in Judaic Studies before realizing Law School was a better fit for me. The book is a very nuanced and philosophy-specific analysis of how Judaism can be explained alongside the Holocaust, so my only recommendation is to read it yourself for a fascinating intellectual, spiritual, and historical journey!
9. Coke or Pepsi? Coke