The Most Passionate Librarian in The World

Jenny Johnson is a Map Librarian at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

The story of this episode begins with Juan David stumbling upon the hidden treasure of the Main Library 4th Floor: The Map Library. From the moment our cohost met Jenny, he knew he had found someone truly remarkable.

Jenny’s love for maps transcends mere occupation; she is a maestro of storytelling, wielding maps as her harmonious instrument. With millions of maps at her fingertips, she effortlessly guides us through a myriad of topics, turning each map into a gateway of knowledge and wonder.

During this interview, Jenny unveils not only her profound connection with maps but also her extraordinary career path filled with awe-inspiring tales. Prepare to be transported through time and space as she recounts stories ranging from her intriguing and audacious encounter with her husband to the arduous struggles she faced while conquering the challenges of computer science in the depths of the language building basement.

Every twist and turn in Jenny’s journey led her to embrace her true calling — the job she yearned for as a senior in college, the job that transcends mere aspiration and becomes a lifelong passion.

This conversation holds an extra special allure, as it invites us to explore more than 10 captivating maps, each with its own tale to tell. From the celestial landscapes of Star Trek to the tumultuous battlefields of the World Wars, from the captivating realms of The Black Panther to the intricate details of the world’s tiniest atlas, and even the sprawling landscapes of Middle-earth from Lord of the Rings — we will traverse dimensions and unravel the mysteries embedded within these cartographic treasures.

Welcome to The UIUC Talkshow, where we invite you to join us on an extraordinary adventure, guided by the incredible Jenny Johnson. Together, let’s discover the power of maps and unveil the hidden stories that shape our world.

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