This photography project will convey why the library is a great place to volunteer and work. It will show the good work that the library does by asking volunteers about their experiences. This first post is about my own answers.
Please introduce yourself: Hello! My name is Jessica Secmezsoy-Urquhart. I’m 22, Scottish/turkish and a history student at Glasgow University. I’m non-binary so identify as neither a woman nor man completely. I’m chronically ill and autistic.I love singing, photography, writing and I’m a huge literature and history nerd.
What is your role at the library and what does it entail?–I’m a volunteer which enables my role to be extremely flexible. I can choose to work in the archives, at reception and more. I’ve been drawn mostly to sourcing texts from publishers for the library then reviewing them. My main goal so far has been to make the library as disabled accessible as possible both physically and in the works we have in the library. So far I’ve sourced quite a few books on disability, I’ve been able to get donations of large print books as well. Currently I’m working with those like the volunteer coordinator Gabrielle to try and locate funding for braille, audio or large print books due to the near impossibility of sourcing donations from publishers. This photo project is another thing I’m working on which I hope will show prospective volunteers how valuable and enjoyable working at the library can be.
What attracted you to the organisation? – I was in need of work experience and had got accepted to another volunteering job when I discovered the GWL website and applied to become a volunteer. The moment I had my interview with Gabrielle I knew I had to work here. Gabrielle was as passionate as myself in making the library better for disabled visitors. The library as a whole is extremely accepting and a completely intersectional workplace.
What thing about the library do you love most or think is the best thing about it?–The fact it exists and strives to create a safe space for people who identify as women and non-binary genders. The sheer volume of things it does and the difference it makes in the community.
Have you find the library an intersectional accepting environment?-Yes. They have accepted me completely and understood the difficulties my chronic illness and autism can cause. I’m made to feel like a valuable good employee.
Sum up the library in one word: Empowerment.
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