Carol Goldberg has lived in Brooklyn for most of her life, way before it became the ultra-hip borough it now is. She was an art major in college, worked various jobs after college such as: lighting salesperson, art supply clerk and computer programmer. She retired in 2016 from a financial services company where she described her position there as data detective.

1. How did you first get involved with 826NYC and why did you decide to volunteer?

I had passed the Superhero Supply House on the Fifth Avenue bus. Having known a comic book writer in a past life, I was curious about it. Around the same time, there was an article in the New York Times about the place and its secret library, so I stopped in to check it out. Like the students who visit, I said, “Wow!” when the portal swung open and I first saw the library. I had to wait for a few years until I retired to volunteer, but I was hooked from the start.

2. What’s your favorite part of volunteering at 826NYC?

I love when the students first come into the library and the sense of wonder they bring with them. I also like being the typist for the Storytelling and Bookmaking field trips. It takes the students a while to figure out that I’m the one typing things for them to do (“if you can read this, put your hands on your head’) while we wait for everyone to get their picture taken and settle in. But they always do!

In the in-school projects, the book parties are the best–that’s when the students get their own copy of the book they helped create.

3. What do you do when you’re not at 826NYC?

I take advantage of living in NYC and being retired! I go to museums, the theater and movies as much as I can. I read and go to the gym, where I like to swim. I write a little, sketch a little and take photographs. I love to travel–this past year I visited India, next year I’m planning to tour Morocco.

4. What advice would you give a new volunteer?

Always ask everyone how to spell their name when you’re writing name tags. Jump in and have fun–rediscover wonder. Learn how to do as many different things as you can so the students have the best time during their field trips.

5. What are your superpowers?

Communing with electronic devices. Using my detective skills to find wonderful things to do and see in NYC.