This series of profiles highlight valued student employees from across the Libraries, including Abigail Mankin, an undergraduate student worker at the Rare Book & Manuscript Library. The Libraries is the largest employer of students on campus. We couldn’t serve our users without them!

Q: Which library do you work at and what is your title?

I am an undergraduate student worker at the Rare Book & Manuscript Library (RBML) on the sixth floor of Butler.

Q: What does your job entail?

I work on different types of projects, such as assisting with writing/rewriting finding aids for collections, digitizing correspondence, scanning requested items for online patrons, and re-shelving materials in the stacks. Sometimes, I am assigned to work with particularly cool collections, like Edward Said’s papers. 

Q: Could you describe your favorite part of working at the Libraries?

I love getting to learn more about how the archive works and what needs to be done in order for it to run smoothly. Additionally, the RBML staff is incredibly nice, and I’ve enjoyed getting to know the other student workers when we work on projects together. 

Q: What is your area of study?

I am a history and dance double major at Barnard College. Currently I am working on my undergraduate thesis, using the Arthur Mitchell papers and the Karyn J. Taylor Dance Theatre of Harlem papers at the RBML. It is so cool that I get to see both sides of the archive, as a user of the collections and as an employee!

Q: Of the libraries on campus, which is your favorite place to study?

When I’m not in Butler, I enjoy studying at the Milstein Center with my friends, or when I am looking to study independently, I often find myself in the Mathematics Library stacks. I love looking out the windows at the view of the campus entrance at Earl Hall and people watching while I work. 

Q: What do you consider to be a “hidden gem” at the library where you work?

I can’t say that any spot in Butler is necessarily “hidden” because it’s the main library on the Morningside campus, however I think the 210 reading room on the second floor is underrated. The little balcony is so charming! I also think more students should visit the RBML, whether it’s to check out the featured exhibitions or make an appointment to look at a collection. The RBML houses such a vast array of materials; I believe everyone can find something they are interested in!

Q: What book are you currently reading?

I am currently reading a lot for my thesis, but outside of that I am re-reading Brave New World by Aldous Huxley and slowly working my way through Walden by Henry David Thoreau.