For more than two decades, Susan Aklus, known to many as “Miss Sue,” has been a quiet but constant presence within the Moore County Public Library System, dedicating her career to connecting people, especially children, with books. Currently serving at the Robbins Library, Miss Sue has spent approximately 26 years with the county library system, with 15 of those years supporting the Robbins community.
“It’s such a charming library,” she said. “It’s open, with large windows. I feel pretty blessed to have a job here.”
Miss Sue began her journey in the library system at the main branch in Carthage, where she split her time between working inside the library and serving on the bookmobile. That experience helped shape her people-first approach, bringing books directly to readers and meeting the community where they are, something she still does today. During Sandhills Sentinel’s interview, she even took a call from a patron who was unable to get out and needed her to bring more books.
Over the years, her role evolved into that of a library technician. In a small branch like Robbins, that means wearing many hats, including organizing programs, assisting patrons, and serving as the friendly, familiar face many associate with the library.
What truly sets Miss Sue apart is her passion for children’s programming. Story time is her favorite part of the job, whether she’s hosting weekly sessions at the library, working with students from Hope Academy, or traveling to Magic Years Preschool every few weeks with books and stories in hand.
“It’s very rewarding,” she says, especially when she sees kids excited to read or discovering new genres for the first time.
Her love of reading spans many styles. While she enjoys romantic suspense and mystery, one of the first books that truly hooked her was Stephen King’s “The Tommyknockers.” Today, she’s reading “Winter Solstice” by Rosamunde Pilcher, a novel she missed when it was wildly popular years ago. Helping patrons find their next great read has become second nature after years of listening and sharing recommendations.
Miss Sue also plays a key role in the library’s seasonal events, including Easter, Halloween, and Christmas programs. Halloween stands out as a favorite, thanks to a beloved tradition where “Claire the Witch” flies in.
“That’s probably my favorite one,” she said. “The kids just love listening to her.”
At the heart of her work is a simple motto she lives by: “Never give up. Never give in. You’ve got to keep going.”
“I feel bad when someone says, ‘I never knew this library was here,’ especially when they’re from the community,” Miss Sue added.
If you have someone you would like to nominate for our Meet Moore People segment, email [email protected].
Feature photo: Sue Aklus stands with a Dolly Parton cutout promoting the icon’s Imagination Library.
~Article and photo by Sandhills Sentinel reporter Curtis Self.
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