The Humans of the Libraries photo story celebrates the Smathers centennial student employee class of 2025. We are so proud of their accomplishments and the energy they have brought to our branches.
“Working in the libraries was my first real job that wasn’t an internship or some summer position in between school years, and I truly believe that this is the best job I could have asked for.
Working at the libraries has meant getting a completely unfiltered look at how the library system chooses, acquires, processes, and shares knowledge with the entire University, and how they make it all run like clockwork. Most of my job here has been processing and either discarding or retaining microfiche that UF is required to house copies of because of its designation as a Regional Depository for federal government documents. One of the more interesting side quests of my job is being able to read transcripts of congressional hearings dating back decades, and I always feel like I’m stumbling upon some long-lost artifact of a bygone era. The biggest things I learned here was how to communicate with others on topics I don’t understand, how to fully access and use all of my resources, and a lot of training on how to use specific library programs like ALMA and Spinomatic. While my knowledge of the library-specific might see limited use outside of UF, the other skills I have developed will follow me to any workplace.”
“When I first applied to work in the Archives, it was just to check the box of having a campus job. I never imagined that submitting that application would lead to the most rewarding and transformative experience during my time at UF. The Libraries gave me a sense of belonging and the encouragement to push myself academically and personally. One of the most meaningful experiences I had was being asked by my supervisor, Sarah Coates, to help curate an exhibit on the history of the women’s student experience at UF. Rather than assigning routine tasks, Sarah recognized my interests and potential, and she trusted me to take the lead on a project that brought together everything I love: research, storytelling, and archival work. Over several months, I sifted through decades of materials–photographs, letters, yearbooks–bringing to life the stories of women whose experiences helped shape UF. Curating the exhibit taught me how to translate historical research into public storytelling and gave me the opportunity to spotlight the women who paved the way for students like me. Seeing the finished exhibit on display, knowing it would educate and inspire others, was an unforgettable moment. My experience, the exhibit, and so many other doors that have opened for me were only possible because of the Libraries’ belief in me– not just as a student worker, but as someone capable of contributing something meaningful and lasting to the UF community.”
“The Libraries have given me my whole portfolio. Working for them has given me all of this experience. I wouldn’t be where I am today without this internship.”
“Every shift in the archives immerses me in a world far removed from my own. Sorting through old documents and correspondence draws me closer to the past. The methodical work of archiving has taught me a great deal, but so has the intimate act of reading decades-old records. This job has heightened my awareness of the importance of archival practices: to learn about the past, those in the present must show respect for it.”
Tristan will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in English and a minor in education studies. Tristan plans to pursue a master’s degree in arts management at American University.
“Working for MSL is not just your average job but represents the best of what the University of Florida has to offer. From providing high-class tools and technology to delivering engaging exhibitions on various perspectives within the STEM fields, MSL allows students to cultivate ideas and deliver new experiences that can leave a lasting impact for others. Furthermore, the staff and faculty who support student development, especially for student workers, have taught me unique lessons and challenged my perspectives on many special topics. Without this experience, I would not have acquired experience in customer service, technical support, and student engagement. For that, I am eternally grateful.”
“I started working in the library only six months ago, but my time at Makerspace has been really impactful. I began working there after teaching sewing workshops at Makerspace after open lab hours. While I knew I had a passion in sewing I learned I felt really fulfilled through teaching others how to sew and create. My favorite part about working at Makerspace is helping people do things they didn’t think they previously could. I love when engineering majors come in with sewing projects or art majors come in to solder. There is such a joy that comes with making something yourself. Makerspace offers a free resource for people to explore their creativity outside of the bounds of what they thought possible. I feel so lucky to be a part of such a passionate community of creatives through Makerspace. For future students, I would suggest using all the resources UF has available and taking time to explore their creativity. From this job, I will not only take the skills I have learned, but the ability to help and teach others.”
“Working in the Libraries introduced me to social media strategy and skills for engaging an audience (with a short attention span). It taught me that the Libraries have a Governor’s House in St. Augustine, where they keep maps of historic St. Augustine. One of my roles as a communications intern was to interview special collections curators, while wearing a sasquatch costume for a summer social media campaign. Being the sasquatch was hot, sweaty, a little gross and times, but it was a fun experience to get to be the representative for UF Libraries.”