Meet Susan Jackson | Friends of the Allen Public Library, President

We had the good fortune of connecting with Susan Jackson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Susan, what do you want your legacy to be?
I hope my legacy is all the things I have helped get accomplished as the President of the Friends of the APL. We have greatly increased the amount of money we are able to give to the library for programs for all ages. We sponsor many of the programs that take place in the auditorium from author talks, to music programs and many different types of educational discussions. We also sponsor reading programs for all ages including adults, hands on art programs for all ages and an annual one book program for the community. I am very proud of the work we do that allows so much to happen at our library and there is never a charge to participate. I am honored to have my name associated with such a great group.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I have lived in Texas for 28 years. Prior to moving to Allen, I worked full time managing the transportation department for my company. The move to Allen allowed me to pursue many avenues, I was able to volunteer in the community and schools when my children were young. I worked at the preschool my son attended while filling my time with my love of reading, gardening and various crafts including knitting, quilting and scrapbooking. I have always loved teaching knit and crochet classes and have enjoyed my many students. I now teach some private lessons and donate my time and talents to programs and classes at the library and local senior center as well as to my Fiber Friends group.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would show off the many trails and parks in Allen as well as the Heard Museum and Oak Point for those nice Texas days. We would visit our favorite Mexican and barbecue restaurants, Two Rows would be high on the list for some good comfort food and of course the honey pepper bacon. We would venture to the square in McKinney for the public art, tiny doors and the many unique shops. We would visit Dallas with stops at the Art Museum and take in a play or concert. And we would be sure to drive by and see South Fork Ranch for the touristy flair.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
The Friends of the Allen Public Library and The Allen Arts Alliance are two groups that are dear to me. The volunteers with these groups work very hard to bring so many great things to our community.

Facebook: Allen Arts Alliance, Friends of the Allen Public Library

Image Credits
All are personal photos