University Libraries Spotlight: Cedar Middleton

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Cedar Middleton was born and raised right here in Fayetteville.

"I have always enjoyed reading, and my ultimate dream was to work at a library in one capacity or another," said Middleton.

Middleton received her Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Tulsa, where she worked in the library as part of a work-study program.

"I was in the basement with the Acquisitions, Cataloging and Interlibrary Loan departments," she said.

Middleton also worked the circulation desk one night per week.

After graduation, Middleton moved back to Fayetteville and got a part-time job at the Farmington Public Library. She was able to work more hours than expected and eventually became the assistant librarian - the highest position she was eligible to hold with a bachelor's degree.

It was during her time at the Farmington Public Library that Middleton met her now-husband of eight years, Jared. Middleton took six months off of work to stay at home with their two children, Linden and Violet. When she was ready to re-enter the workforce, she came to University of Arkansas Libraries, starting out in Cataloging.

"I worked my way up as far as my bachelor's degree could take me within that department," said Middleton. "And I finally decided to pursue my Master of Library Science."

Middleton earned her master's degree through an online program offered by Florida State University.

"Having a master's degree has brought me to where I am career-wise today," she said.

Currently the Institutional Repository Coordinator, Middleton helps populate the University of Arkansas' institutional repository - the online archive of research conducted by U of A faculty, staff and students.

"I have really enjoyed getting to know Melody Herr, my current supervisor, and many other people across campus," said Middleton. "It's been great getting to know what faculty, staff and students are creating and what they are willing to share with the world through the institutional repository."

When asked what she thinks is the Libraries' best-kept secret, Middleton referenced the children's book section in the northeast corner of the third floor of Mullins Library - and, of course, the Special Collections department.

In their spare time, Middleton's family participates in taekwondo together. Her husband recently earned his first-degree black belt, she is a red belt, and their children are blue belts.

"It's a great way to become stronger, mentally and physically," she said.

Her family also enjoys playing board games, reading, watching fun shows or movies, and playing the piano together. Middleton's future goals include visiting every state in America and a few countries in Europe.