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Volunteer Voices

By Kayla Harris, Librarian/Archivist

April is National Volunteer Month and the Marian Library would not be the same without our many dedicated volunteers. As part of the Marian Library’s 75th anniversary, celebrated throughout 2018, an oral history project was initiated to collect the voices and stories from those who have helped shape the collections and services. The first phase of the project focused on the contributions of the volunteers who work with the collections of nativities and artwork.

The interviewees describe not only who introduced them to the Marian Library (in many cases it was Sister Jean Frisk!), but also why they keep returning week after week. They also describe some of their tasks, such as packing collections, coordinating loans, or designing and crafting detailed settings to enhance the nativity pieces. While reflecting on their impact, they share their vision for the Marian Library in the next 75 years.

The interviews were conducted by Marian Library archivist, Kayla Harris, and Digital Projects Manager, Ryan O’Grady, with special thanks to the LTC for additional recording equipment. The closed-captioned videos are available in eCommons, along with complete transcripts. Thank you to the volunteers that participated in this phase of the oral history project: Phil Powers, Mike Foley, Harry Mushenheim, Jean Nickelman, Lois Brun, Ginny Saxton and Ann Persensky.

Thanks to all of the volunteers for their many contributions to the Marian Library!

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