The University Libraries names Bri Spitz as its outstanding graduating student worker for her dedication to helping other students access library services and information.
Spitz will graduate this May with a Bachelor of Science degree in evolutionary biology conferred by the College of Arts and Sciences. She has worked at the front desk in the William M. White Business Library since Spring 2021, initially as part of a small group of student workers that helped the University Libraries safely reopen spaces and service points during the pandemic.
“I enjoy helping people find what they need. It is very satisfying to have people come up and ask a question and be able to find that answer. Having them not leave the library disappointed, it is like solving a puzzle,” Spitz said.
Spitz said her goal after graduation is to become a park ranger with the National Parks Service. Her love of helping people along with her degree in ecology and evolutionary biology brought her to this career goal.
“This job helped me learn about interacting with people. I feel a lot more confident after working at the library, knowing that I can find resources and help others find the resources they need,” she said. “I highly recommend the libraries as a student job. It is a great way to learn about CU and its people.”
This is the first year that the University Libraries has named an outstanding graduating senior from its ranks of student workers. Selection criteria is based on a demonstrated dedication to the mission of the libraries which includes supporting other students and connecting them with information, resources and services.
“During her time in the Business Library, Spitz took on an important role as a peer leader and mentor to new student workers, helping them learn the job and feel part of a team,” said Rocco Labriola, branch operations manager in the Business Library.
“She is always interested in understanding how library services work or library employees' jobs. She has taken on various tasks and projects with curiosity and initiative, such as assisting with the creation of online guides for new student employees,” Labriola continued.
The Libraries employ over 100 students in roles such as security, archival and preservation assistants and service desk workers. Many students stay with the Libraries from their first year at CU Boulder through their senior year and some go on to careers in librarianship or museum studies.
“We have a large library system on the CU Boulder campus and we could not operate without our student workers,” said Robert H. McDonald, dean of the University Libraries and senior vice provost of Online Education. “Our students are not just employees, but part of a cohort of learners who we celebrate and support throughout their educational journeys. When they graduate, we hope they will stay in touch and remember their time spent in our libraries and the work they accomplished.”
Spitz will be acknowledged by McDonald as the University Libraries Outstanding Graduating Senior at the CU Boulder Commencement ceremony on Folsom Field on May 11, 2023.
