(Image left to right: A library poster featuring Nellie; a word cloud describing Nellie’s qualities as library student staff.)
You may have seen a familiar face on Collins campaign library posters, at the help desk, and in an instruction video. Or noticed ornamental book jackets with snowflake spirit twirling from the ceiling – maybe hollow books randomly shelved during the scavenger hunt? This is the work of Nellie Hartman, junior Classics major and devoted library student assistant. Nellie puts her many talents to use for a wide range of library projects. Read on to see what Nellie has to say about her behind-the-scenes action and more!
How long have you worked in Collins Library? When did you start and why?
I’ve worked in the Collins Library since I came back to school in the Fall of 2008. I wanted to work at the library because I’m hoping to get my Masters of Library Science when I finish my undergrad. I think what helped me get this job was my experience in fixing printers! At my old job, they didn’t have money to hire techs, so I learned quite a bit about these machines.
What do you like most about in the library and the work you do?
My favorite thing about working in the library is the people I work with. The other student assistants, regular staff and many of the users are a blast. I like the mystery of not knowing what project you’ll be doing from one day to the next. During the summer, I’ve helped re-shelve the reference section three times. I once made hollow book safes from discarded books for a scavenger hunt. This entailed gluing the outer edges of the book pages together, then carving a square out, usually one page at a time!
What is a typical day at work here?
I don’t think there is a “typical” day here for me. Even when I work the desk, which has set tasks, you never knew what unique problems you might need to solve for the users. I enjoy the creative projects, like making the book safes! I also recorded my voice on a cell phone service they had awhile back. I also do data entry, and retrieving books – what a variety! Right now, I’m mostly behind the scenes. I still work at the Learning Commons desk one hour a week, and it’s fun to help people.
What is your favorite Collins book & library service?
My favorite book at Collins is “Good Omens” by Neil Gaiman and Terry Prachett. It’s hilarious, and I’m glad the library has it. You’ll see my other favorites in the Collins Unbound blog- What We’re Reading & Watching section! As for a favorite library service, I love being able get call numbers texted to my cell phone so I don’t have to find a piece of paper. Handy!