Friends of Hanley Library endow scholarship for student workers

The Friends of Hanley Library have endowed a new scholarship for students who work at the library.

Each year, the Friends, which support the university's library with purchases and programming, works with library director Marietta Frank to choose a project.

In the past, these have included furniture for comfortable study areas, laptops for students to check out and the purchase of a painting by a Bradford native.

“It's all about the relationship between the library and the community,” said Jeff Bosworth '13, president of the Friends.

A few years ago, he said, Frank did not have a specific need for the students, so members chose to donate toward an endowed scholarship to benefit one of the library's student workers.  The scholarship is now endowed, and the Friends can continue to add to it as funds permit.

Frank said, “The endowed scholarship is close to my heart as an enduring gift to assist our student workers.” The library employs 19 students, the great majority of whom are financially eligible for federal work-study funds. The students work at the circulation desk, shelve books and perform other tasks.

Students who qualify for federal work-study jobs have the most need. The new scholarship will further help one of them manage their education costs.

“We depend on these students for an awful lot, and they are what allows us to do what we do,” Frank said.

Founded in 1990 to support the library dedicated two years before in honor of Bradford residents T. Edward and Tullah Hanley, the friends also purchase books for new academic majors and the reference collection and sponsor talks and educational or cultural programs each semester.

Frequently, the programs are a book launch or signing for local authors. Each December, the Friends sponsor Seasonal Readings on WESB 1490 Radio.

Funds for the Friends' projects come from an annual book sale of pre-owned books during Alumni and Family Weekend and membership dues.

Members receive a guest library card, allowing them to borrow materials from the library, and enjoy an annual thank-you wine and cheese reception.

To become a member, visit www.library.pitt.edu/friends-hanley-library.

To donate to the scholarship, contact the Office of Institutional Advancement at 814-362-5091 or visit www.givetoUPB.org.