Excellence Acknowledged!

On Tuesday, April 30, two student assistants at College Library were recognized for their excellent service to library patrons and staff. In a tradition dating back to 2006, nominations are solicited for student workers who provide outstanding public service, who demonstrate exemplary working relationships, who are productive and work to create a welcoming learning and research environment.

This year the recipients of the award include a graduating senior – Griffin Shimp – who assisted in the collection management department, and Erica Uyenbat, a student assistant in the library’s computer lab. According to their nomination letters, both students are exceptionally committed to ensuring a positive experience for library users. Erica, who has worked in the computer lab for two years, is described as someone who goes “out of her way many times to not only assist patrons, but also co-workers.” Her nominator noted, “if I ever have a question while I’m working, I know I can call her or text her and receive a timely, friendly, and accurate answer.” This dedication and work ethic were also apparent to Erica’s supervisor who wrote, “Erica is one of the few student employees I’ve worked with who demonstrates reliability, consistency, and exceptional work quality on par with that of a professional, full-time staff member. When working with Erica, I more often feel like I’m working with a colleague rather than a student I supervise.”

Griffin spent three years working circulation at the library’s Info Desk and in that time was appreciated for his initiative and problem-solving skills. One nominator reported, “Griffin will literally jump out of his seat to help patrons and he goes out of his way and spends whatever time is necessary to find books, complete his jobs, help patrons, etc.” Another noted how rare it is for a student assistant “to notice when a patron is having trouble with the staplers or when a printer is out of paper before anyone has to ask for help” and that Griffin excelled in this area.

Both Griffin and Erica are deserving of this award for their exceptional work ethic, positive attitude, and emphasis on customer service. We extend our appreciation to them and all of the student assistants who make College Library work.