The volunteers behind the shelves: Lynden

Volunteers make our libraries extra special places. In the everyday tasks that keep books on the shelves and the big projects that redefine access to knowledge, volunteers shape the intellectual life, community, and shared spaces of our libraries. That’s especially true at the Dalton McCaughey Library, where a small team of helping hands generously gift their time in service to others. 

Earlier this month, I checked-in with Lynden Broadstock—a retired Uniting Church minister, keen reader, and one of our cherished volunteers. His quiet presence among the shelves might not always be noticed by patrons, but after a decade of volunteering—a remarkable commitment—most will have benefitted from his steady, behind-the-scenes work at the library. 

After retiring from active ministry in 2014, Linden knew the library was the perfect place to offer his time: 

I’ve just always loved the library. Even when I’ve been overseas, I’d always go find the libraries. I think they’re amazing places. I guess I just thought—if I could help out in a place I already loved, that’d be great. 

With his background in ministry and lifelong love of books, the Dalton McCaughey Library was the perfect match. He’s become familiar with the many diverse jobs in an academic library: digitising materials, correcting catalogue metadata, moving collections: “It’s made me appreciate how technical libraries have become. With all the online access, there’s a lot happening behind the scenes… It’s deepened my love for libraries and what they provide.” 

But today, Lynden has been returning books to shelves—a job he does solo and one that gives him a unique perspective on the collection. He has probably seen more of the library’s books than anyone else at the library. By May this year, he’d re-shelved more than 1300 of them. “Sometimes I go a bit slower” he confessed, “because I find books or sections I haven’t seen before.”  

His weekly visits connect him to interesting ideas and current scholarship—even the piles of books he comes across reveal topics that are currently fascinating researchers and students. “I take home quite a few books—not always to read cover to cover, but to explore what’s out there.” The collection benefits from this curiosity too, with Linden recommending the occasional science and theology work for the library to acquire. “Sometimes I walk past a book and think, ‘That’s one I recommended!’ So that’s been rewarding.” 

Although the books are a highlight, it’s the people and the place that keeps Linden returning each week. “It’s really good being part of the team. It’s just nice to spend some time and help out…I never book things on [my volunteering day]—that day is always kept clear.”  

I love books and reading—libraries are like a big playground for me. 

If you love books, theology, or just the peaceful work of keeping a library humming, we’d love to hear from you. Whether you have a few hours a week or a particular skill to share, there’s a place for you in our team of volunteers.