Spring 2026
The University Libraries offers resources, hosts events, and offers a space for people to study, read, and do research. Hunt Library, Sorrells, and the Posner Center for Special Collections all offer unique spaces and opportunities for members of the CMU community. Here’s a look at some of the student workers whose contributions help make this possible!
Amanda Barajas is a sophomore studying fine art and humanities analytics in the BHA program. She works with the University Archives as a CMU Archives Student Assistant on projects relating to the General Photograph Collection with the end goal of making these historical materials accessible for students and future researchers that come to CMU.
“Aside from photographs, I love looking through old correspondence — I'm talking about letters, scribbled notes, even fax documents. These materials are literally a conversation, a microstory that's been physically preserved onto a page, and I just think that's really cool.”
Angie Reyes-Meza is a junior studying global studies in the Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences. She is an Archival Assistant who helps the archivists by refiling archival materials, using the finding aids to assist with research questions, and even setting up for events like the 100th Birthday Celebration. Her favorite part of the Libraries is the Hunt Institute for Botanical Documentation on the fifth floor of Hunt Library.
“The University Libraries are definitely a second home for me; the Archives in particular are my favorite part (though I may be biased) since there’s so much history of every facet of CMU! Being able to handle Scotch’n’Soda posters from 1997 or Carnival records from 1973 really makes me feel like I’m part of something much bigger than the ‘now’.”
Moira Doolittle is a junior studying dramaturgy in the School of Drama. She works as the student events assistant, which includes setting up and breaking down at many of the Libraries’ events, dealing with merchandise and inventory, and handling food deliveries. Before she started her job, she had no idea how many events are put on at and for the Libraries.
“The University Libraries is one of the few places on campus where I don't feel rushed. At a school like CMU, I think it's so valuable to have a place of relative calm and of no expectations to relax, meet friends, or get work done.”
--> Follow Moira on "A Day in the Life" as Libraries Student Worker
Claire Thurston is a junior studying dramaturgy in the School of Drama. She is a Student Assistant at the Posner Center for Special Collections. She sits at the welcome desk and helps orient visitors, as well as working with head curator Sam Lemley and special collections coordinator Catherine Blauvelt. Her favorite item in the collection is the complete works of Plato in the original Greek published by Aldus Manutius in 1513.
“Carnegie Mellon doesn’t have rare books just for the sake of having them. They’re here to be looked at, felt, and read! In other words, they’re here for you — and, by extension, the Poser Center is here for you. I want other students to know how easy it is to schedule a research appointment (or wander in) and engage with rare books.”
Riona Duncan is a third year student studying literature and culture in Dietrich College. She works as a student writer for the Libraries’ marketing and communications team. She loves to study in Hunt Library, and has populated most of her to-be-read list with books from the libraries’ digital collections.
“My favorite thing about my job is that I get to learn more about what the Libraries are making possible and share that with the community! I love getting to interview people related to the Libraries, because they're always doing such cool and important things.”