While the library is normally known for being quiet, one student employee is certainly making some loud waves. Simon Griffen is not only part of the library’s Operations & Protection Services team but is the lead singer of Blue Rain Boots and the drummer for Hurtado, both of which were the opening bands for this year’s Red Fest. Red Fest is an annual concert presented by ASUU and featured local singer Ritt Momney as its headliner. 

Griffen started playing in Blue Rain Boots in 2018 with his best friend and has kept at it since. When asked about balancing being in a band, working at the library and keeping up with his studies he explained, “The balance can be tricky, but I try my best to dedicate as much time to each as possible. Often, I end up working on assignments while on tour or when I have time at the library service desk.”  

Simon Griffen’s supervisor, Scott Bigler, had nothing but praise for Griffen’s work at the library. “Simon is a tremendous addition to our team! He brings positivity to his interactions with his coworkers and our patrons and can often be seen working the late-night shifts with a smile on his face and a cup of coffee in his hand. His supervisors and coworkers describe him as a genuinely caring person who is passionate about the library and its services!”  

Not only has Griffen been a great part of the library staff, but Bigler revealed a deeper connection to its history, “He started working in the library in September of 2022, but he essentially grew up in the library. Simon’s mom was the former manager of the department he works in.” Griffen plans to continue at the U to finish his bachelor’s degree in atmospheric science and hopes to do music full time in the future.