Susan Penny Indexing

I am an accredited indexer and Member of the Society of Indexers. I create back-of-the-book indexes in subjects spanning the arts and humanities.

By choosing to employ a professional indexer, you are ensuring that your text will have the best index possible. Indexers analyse the text, understand the needs of the reader, provide a ‘road map’ to concepts and produce a clear, accessible, informative way of accessing and retrieving information. 


Subjects Indexed

The following list is indicative of the subjects I index, but it is by no means exhaustive. I love a challenge, and particularly welcome texts that intrigue me: If you are unsure whether I’ll be able to help you, please do ask. 

  • Art History 
  • Children’s non-fiction
  • Education
  • English Literature
  • Equestrian Sports
  • Fishing
  • Gardening and horticulture
  • History – particularly British History, Social History
  • Learning disabilities
  • Local History
  • Mythology and Folklore
  • Natural history – popular interest
  • Pets
  • Scotland
  • Study Skills
  • Transport (particularly public transport – trains, buses and ferries)

Qualifications 

  • Accredited Indexer (MSocInd)
  • MA Victorian Studies at Birkbeck College, University of London.
  • BA(Hons) English Literature -University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne
  • DipLib Information and Library Studies, Aberystywyth University
  • MCLIP Chartered Librarian
  • PGDE University of the Highlands and Islands

About me

For many years I worked as a Chartered school librarian, and I am also a qualified Primary School Teacher. These are jobs that require you to become an expert in a wide range of subjects – from the basics up to A level and Advanced Higher: I have supported students with everything from Gaelic to Geology, and Sports Studies to Physics. Teaching students and young people information skills, and helping them with research, has given me a keen insight into the mind of the information-hunter and index user. 

In my spare time I enjoy spending time outdoors –gardening, walking, or wildlife watching. I am chair of Mull’s Riding for the Disabled Group. I am an avid reader of both fiction and non-fiction.