Library Assistants:

Kara Kruse

I have been an assistant for Leonard A. Good Library since the summer of 2021 after retiring from teaching art (31 years!). I have always loved reading and enjoyed coming to the library as a child and as a parent. 

My hobbies and interests during my down time include: reading, hiking, boating, puzzles and games, creating art, golfing, tandem biking, traveling with senior softball friends and hanging out with my family and friends. 

When selecting a good book, I love a great mystery or thriller! Over the years, I have enjoyed the series of: Lillian Braun, Janet Evanovich, JK Rowling, MC Beaton and Janet Fluke. My current reading has lead me to recommend: Jojo Moyes, Ann Patchett, Lisa Scottoline and Jennifer Barnes. The Dutch House by Ann Patchett has been my favorite all time read, a beautifully written book. 

The best part of working at the library is the people: my co-workers and all of the patrons that visit each day! I love helping people and sharing in great conversation! My favorite duties are creating designs for our promotional materials and marking the books for circulation. I have also enjoyed helping plan monthly themes and programs as I get to use my creativity and problem-solving skills!  

Kelli Larson

When I first started coming to the library, I always told the ladies to keep me in mind if they needed a worker because I always wanted to work here. One of the workers had surgery and they asked if I wanted to fill in...I've been working here ever since. :) 

My hobbies and interests include: reading, ISU Cyclone sports, leading youth group at church and St. Louis Cardinals baseball.

When it comes to books, I like mysteries or thrillers, Mary Higgins Clark, James Patterson, and all 7 of the Harry Potter books!

I love the people I work with. I also love seeing the kids and talking with the patrons; some of them have such interesting stories. My favorite thing is when I help a person connect with a new book or series. 

Annette Powers

My history of working at the library goes back to my childhood and growing up in Ogden. The library at that time was in the basement of the old Ogden City Hall. We actually had to write brief book reports for the summer reading program.

My hobbies and interests include: playing the piano and organ, reading, quilting, Hawkeye football and basketball, and spending time with my children and grandchildren.

When it comes to books, I enjoy historical fiction, mystery, and occasionally  some non-fiction.

Retired as a nurse and about a year later, I started my "fun" job at the library. I still get to help people, listen to them and have some interesting conversations. And did I say how much I love my co-workers and boss?! :)

Emily VonEgmond

I have worked here since May 2022, mainly on Saturdays throughout the school year as I am also a full-time teacher!

I enjoy reading (obviously!) and have really looked forward to book club every month. I also like: outdoor walks, trying different coffee shops, drinking tea, cross-stich, puzzles and board games, and being in nature.

When it comes to selecting books, I enjoy historical fiction. My favorites of any genre: The Book of Lost  Names, The Nightengale, Devil in the White City, and Pamela Kelley Beach Plum Cove Series. 

I just really enjoy the atmoshpere and seeing what different people like to read. I had a memorable experience helping with the summer outdoor art day and was reminded of how much I enjoyed being involved with library programs as a child!