The library at UNH Manchester is an interesting place- students often stop by here to get some homework done, check out new books and movies, and even to catch up with friends in between classes. The library is also a really helpful resource for research, with several research assistants more than happy to offer their guidance and advice.
One of these research assistants is Rachel Blair Vogt. A Connecticut native, Rachel made her first foray into the Granite State as a student at UNH Durham, graduating with a BA in Sociology back in 2006. While studying in Durham, Rachel worked both as a student librarian at the Dimond Library and as an academic mentor at the Center for Academic Enrichment.
Rachel’s time at UNH Durham as a student worker would go on to change her life. She credits the skills she used and gained in both jobs with helping her become a better student, and prompting her to make a change to her career path. After she was done with school, Rachel found out she wanted to continue to help people.
“I just had such a positive experience during my undergrad that I decided to go on to library school,” Rachel says.
Rachel went on to gain a Masters in Library and Information Studies at the University of Rhode Island in 2009, with a focus on information literacy. When Rachel found out about an opportunity at UNH Manchester, she was thrilled to once again be a part of the UNH community.
As a staff member with the library, Rachel primarily helps students through teaching information literacy skills, as well as offering workshops with faculty members. Rachel is also heavily involved with library outreach, organizing art exhibits and Frazzle Free Finals- a stress relieving end-of semester event where students can expect healthy snacks, puzzles, and even therapy dogs to help put their minds at ease.Image may be NSFW.
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“My main job here is to help students’ learning experiences,” Rachel says. “It doesn’t matter how big or small a question is.”
When asked what advice she would give to a student struggling with research, Rachel gave a few very helpful tips.
“You need to give yourself enough room to explore,” Rachel says. “Research is iterative- it’s not about going from Point A to Point B. It’s much more of a process of going back and forth.”
Rachel can typically be found at the research assistant desk, right across from the main circulation desk in the library. If you would like to set up an appointment with Rachel, she can be reached at Rachel.blairvogt@unh.edu.
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