Sarah Mitrani

Tell us your Smith College Libraries Story.

My story in Neilson begins on the fourth day after I arrived at Smith when I had my training as a barista at the Compass Cafe. I loved the hustle and bustle of the lunch rush, the fun chit chat with other Smithies, and becoming friends with my awesome coworkers, but after two years, it was time to find a new place to spend 10+ hours a week, and Special Collections was calling my name.

In my first year, I worked on a research paper for my first year seminar where I spent an unreasonable amount of time doing archival research in Special Collections about Smithies in WW1, and I fell in love with the space and the craft of archival research. Before then, I had not spent much time thinking about archives, even though I have always loved history and planned to be a high school history teacher. Each semester after that, I looked for every excuse to come to Special Collections and explore. When I saw that they were hiring for the fall of my junior year, I jumped at the chance to apply to be a Reading Room Assistant.

I found that being a Reading Room Assistant and a barista were not that different in the end. I still get to chat with newcomers and regulars, and help people find what they need, whether that is a latte or rare book. My experience working in Neilson over the last 4 years has been full of warm and lovely people who just want to help and support students. Working in the library and getting to interact with so many inspiring and inspired people has influenced me to want to continue to work in libraries. I love the idea of a public space, open to all, with resources and people willing to help anyone who asks. I want to continue to be a part of that mission and help anyone who needs guidance or support. From a warm smile and help navigating a finding aid or welcoming someone into the library, I want to make everyone feel like they belong here.

Getting a job in libraries (or anywhere) is pretty hard right now, so I will likely be going back to my roots and making coffee! But in the end, if I have learned anything from the amazing people (students and staff) who work here at the libraries, I will end up where I am meant to be."    

Outside of the Libraries, what are your interests and hobbies?

When I am not at the library, I am hanging out with my friends and girlfriend, listening to music and making playlists, walking around campus and hugging trees.

What is next for you after graduating from Smith?

I wish I could tell you! If you have any leads, please let me know... In my dreams, I am a children's librarian.

If you could impart one piece of advice to incoming first year students, what would it be?

Explore the libraries even if-- and especially if-- you don't have a specific reason. You often find the most exciting and impactful things when you are not intentionally looking for them.