Madeline Cohen is the Director & Circuit Librarian at the U.S. Courts 10th Circuit Library in Denver, Colorado.
Why did you join AALL?
I joined AALL when I was brand new to the law library profession because I knew it would be a great way to build my professional network — which it has!
Why do you stay a member?
After joining AALL, I realized how much the organization had to offer in the areas of career development, advocacy, and continuing education, as well as opportunities to serve and represent fellow law librarians on boards, committees and special groups.
What one membership benefit is most valuable to you?
The answer to this question really depends on where I have been in my career path. I have certainly taken advantage of the career center and the continuing education programs, but also have found the connections I’ve made at the Annual Meeting and through SIS and committee work to be invaluable.
What is your favorite memory associated with AALL?
There are so many! Presenting at the 2009 meeting in Washington, DC is near the top, but so it chairing the Hospitality Committee for the 2010 meeting in Denver. I have to say, though, that attending my first AALL at age 5 was the most memorable (my dad was in publishing and was there as a vendor). I got to be the official greeter for a pretty swanky vendor party!
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Cooking and baking (and eating and writing about food on my blog), traveling and exploring new places with my daughter, movies.
What book(s) are you currently reading?
I just finished reading My Beloved World by Justice Sonia Sotomayor. I feel very lucky to have gotten the opportunity to meet her several times.
I just started Blink by Malcolm Gladwell. It’s been on my to-read list forever, but also checked out of the public library for about that long!
I’m also rereading Crime and Punishment for a CLE seminar we’re putting together at my library.
What’s your favorite travel/vacation destination?
Locally, I would have to say it’s Glenwood Springs, CO — hiking, mountains, hot springs, and great food!