Johnson Named Assistant Director of the Winthrop Public Library

Catelyn Johnson has been appointed the new assistant director and reference librarian at the Winthrop Public Library.

Library Director Peter Struzziero selected Johnson from an applicant pool of 12 candidates for the position.

“We had a dozen qualified applicants and Catelyn surpassed them all,” said Struzziero.

Johnson previously worked as a library assistant at the Putterham Branch of the Brookline Public Library, serving as second-in-command at the library.

Originally from Melrose, Johnson received a Bachelor’s degree in Linguistics from the University of Iowa (Class of 2008) and a Master’s degree in Library Science from Wayne State University.

In her responsibilities at the Winthrop Public Library, Johnson will assist library users who have reference and technology questions and work with Struzziero on planning, long-term projects, and new programs.

“Right now I’m working on weeding out the older reference books that have out-of-date information and on the developing of a new space in the library for teenagers,” said Johnson. “I’m also helping the children’s librarian with the launch of a reading and knitting club for adults.”

The new assistant director said that she’s trying to match the energy level of Struzziero, who has begun implementing changes to the library designed to increase visitations by residents and circulation.

“Peter is wonderful – he just has so much energy,” said Johnson. “He has so many plans for the Winthrop library. It takes quite a lot to keep up with him. It’s awesome. I couldn’t ask for more.”

Struzziero said Johnson has given the library a big boost in productivity since her arrival on Oct. 22.

“I feel the library has accomplished more in the last 30 days than it has in the four months since my arrival,” said Struzziero. “I’ve gotten much more done. I’ve been a much more effective director having such a great assistant director to work side-by-side with. I feel like we’re really making some progress.”