Episode 52 Diana Bowers-Smith, archivist

My guest today is Diana Bowers-Smith. Diana is the first archivist I’ve had as a guest on my podcast and after my conversation with her, I’d say its about time!! Diana works as an archivist in the Brooklyn Collection, Local History Division at the Brooklyn Public Library. Her recent investigative research settled the debate of the authenticity of the eagle statue that once marked the front entrance of the Brooklyn Daily Eagle, Brooklyn’s main newspaper for over 100 years.

Diana graduated from Stanford University with a BA in Art History, eventually moved back to NY and received two Masters from Pratt Institute, one in Art History and the other in Library and Information Science. There are numerous ways one can put a library science degree to work, but what was transformational for Diana was the public service aspect, at the heart of library science. Public service is as the heart of her devotion, as well as her genuine curiosity and refreshing thirst for knowledge. For example, listen to how Diana describes the history, lure and charm of Greenwood Cemetery! I learn something new whenever I am in her presence.

Check out the show notes for links to Diana’s Brooklyn Public Library (BPL) work, her monthly blogs and check the BPL events calendar for the dates that Diana gives monthly tours of the Brooklyn Central Library - a national historic landmark. Last week, I featured guitarist, Perry Smith, Diana’s husband. You’ll hear how they both use their personal and professional platforms to help advance social justice and the causes they care about.

Enjoy the podcast!

Links:
IG: @brooklyncollection
Twitter: @brooklynology

www.bklynlibrary.org/brooklyncollection

the blog: brooklynology.org