The library in Building 7 is a place that many Sinclair students frequent; it is a place to study, get assistance with class content, relax, and socialize. The library is also a place where students can work. In the third installment of The Clarion’s Student Employment Series, Andrea Atkinson and Rahme Ashour discuss how the library can go beyond what it already is for students.
While some students may visit the library, they may not know the ins-and-outs of how it functions – this is a gap that a student employment position can fill.
“Student employees learn more about library resources and the role the library can play in helping to achieve educational goals,” said Atkinson and Ashour, adding that the position helps “prepare [students] for their next opportunity.”
The tasks that library student employees complete are mostly administrative and organizational, including getting items on and off shelves and tending to patron inquiries. Students’ work assists not only their own learning and growth but that of their peers as well. Atkinson and Ashour stated that they gain a “student perspective” of what the library offers, which helps them to improve their services. The help and feedback that the library staff get from students is crucial in ensuring the smooth functioning of the library.
While working with the library and its processes may feel overwhelming at first, Atkinson and Ashour assure students that no previous library or work experience is needed. The two emphasized the building of skills through this role, such as time management and prioritization, which are key in higher-level roles that students may encounter after graduation.
The Sinclair library is not currently hiring, but applications are always open. Anyone who is interested should visit the library desk and fill out an application.
Stay tuned for the next feature in this series!