“When I told my mom I was going to be working at the Fine Arts Library, she assumed I’d only be handling books about the classics, but the art inside the Fine Arts Library goes far beyond the bounds of Western Europe,” wrote Emily Burnheimer in her scholarship essay. “One of the reasons I love working at the Fine Arts Library is because I’m exposed to so much art that is about the everyday other. It isn’t just Da Vinci, or even Kahlo, preserved in this library’s stacks, but books that grant the library’s users access to worlds underrepresented in the American perception of art. I appreciate my job at the Fine Arts Library for giving me access to this cultural knowledge, and for the opportunity to help preserve it.”
Based on her compelling essay and outstanding work, Burnheimer was selected as a recipient of a 2023 University Libraries Student Employee Scholarship. We interviewed her to learn more about her thoughts on working at the Fine Arts Library.
Tell us a bit about yourself!
My name is Emily, and I am a second-year English major at Ohio State!
What drew you to working with University Libraries as a student employee?
I chose to work at University Libraries because I’ve always had an interest in archiving. I am fascinated by preserving history because of the knowledge and enjoyment we can derive from it! Libraries are one of the most accessible resources for others who are interested in learning just like me, and I am happy to be involved in the responsibility of distributing these materials.
What is something you’ve learned by working for University Libraries?
I have learned just how large the array of resources at Ohio State actually is! Whatever your interest, there is always something at Libraries that can satisfy this curiosity.
How will this scholarship impact your time as a student at Ohio State?
This scholarship will help me better focus on my studies next year, as it alleviates some of the stress that comes with paying for college!
What would you say to other students who are considering working for University Libraries?
Do it! Personally, working at University Libraries has given me a sense of fulfillment while still allowing me time to focus on my studies.