Student Workers Rule!

You might not realize how heavily academic libraries rely upon student workers.  Without student workers, most academic libraries would not operate efficiently, and many would not operate at all.  The LLTC is no different.  The LLTC employs approximately 20 student workers every semester.  Some work in Technical Services, ensuring that pocket parts are inserted, loose-leafs filed, and periodicals processed and placed appropriately on the shelves.  Other students work in Audio Visual setting up laptops, projectors, and other classroom equipment.  Still, others work in the administrative suite answering phone calls, filing documents, and running errands.  And, still, others work at the Circulation Desk.  Indeed, without student workers at the Circulation Desk, the LLTC would probably need to reduce its operating hours by at least 25%. 

In the past several months, the LLTC has changed some long-standing policies regarding student workers.

The LLTC, at least over the past 5 or so years, has not employed Law Center students at Circulation.  The policy changed during the Winter 2011 term.  Now, the LLTC attempts to hire only law students if possible.  We find law students are great student workers.  They know the layout of the LLTC, are able to better direct patrons to reference librarians when needed, and are extremely reliable.  Plus, why not give needed jobs (money) to our own students?  Additionally, the LLTC now employs student reference assistants.  This term we have two reference assistants – Ayelet Faerman and Sylvia Cano.  Each works approximately 5-10 hours a week at the reference desk.  We look for students who did well in LSV (the Law Center’s first-year legal writing and research course) as well as students who have either already taken or are enrolled in Advanced Legal Research.  This has worked out tremendously. 

Possibly the law librarians will be able to convince one of reference assistants that being a law librarian is a great career choice!

Next time your in the LLTC, thank the student workers.  Each student worker works hard.  And, as noted above, without them the LLTC could not function as efficiently as it does.  I’m going to take this opportunity to now thank all of our student workers.  You are awesome and we highly value you!