Steve Richardson ’77

This is part 17 in our weekly summer blog series in which we highlight some of the amazing Furman alumni who have gone on to work in library and information professions. Click here to view all posts in this series. This week we are highlighting Steve Richardson ’77.

Richardson has worked for the Furman University Libraries for 33 years. Prior to beginning at Furman he worked for the Greenville County Library System. He holds a bachelor’s degree in English from Furman University, and in 1982 he graduated from the University of South Carolina with his master’s in library and information science. If you’ve ever had the pleasure of working with him, you know he’s an excellent librarian who goes above and beyond.

What has been your professional path to your current position?

“I was employed as Reference Librarian at the Greenville County Library, 1982-1986.”

Tell us a little bit about how you chose to work as a library and information professional?

“I began a degree in Librarianship in order to provide me means for pursuing work in Archives and Special Records. As I mixed graduate courses in Library Science and History I discovered that I could find opportunities for applying both fields through professional work in different types of libraries. I therefore considered the most beneficial track for me would be to secure a professional library position which would offer these opportunities.”

What is the most interesting library in which you’ve worked?

“James B. Duke Library at Furman University.”

What is something you have been surprised by during your career?

“I was surprised by the enormous range of interests and projects I could pursue through applying library skills in a university community.”

Is there a particularly fond memory from your time at Furman that you would be willing to share?

“The overall sense of collegiality I enjoyed with all the Furman faculty, staff and students.”