More than just an internship: Why small gestures can have a big impact
Libraries are regarded as places of knowledge. Digital information systems, research literature and study areas shape our perception of them. Yet perhaps their true strength lies elsewhere: above all, libraries are places where people connect with one another. Every day, encounters take place here, questions are answered, guidance is provided and bridges are built – sometimes very quietly and almost unnoticed.
One such bridge was built at the University Library at the end of June. From 29 June to 3 July 2026, we had the pleasure of supporting Larissa Vorobiova as part of a work placement. The contact was arranged by an educational institution that supports people, in collaboration with institutions, on their journey back into working life.
Larissa Vorobiova brings with her what many organisations are looking for: many years of professional experience, great motivation and a passion for libraries. In her home country, she had already worked as a librarian for many years. Nevertheless, upon arriving in a new country, many things start from scratch again. Professional qualifications need to be recognised, language skills demonstrated and working practices learnt. Often, it is not the qualifications that are lacking, but the opportunity to demonstrate them. This is precisely where a work trial comes in.
In conversation with the educational institution, we learnt how difficult it often is to find organisations willing to give people this first opportunity. This made our decision all the more natural. After all, when we as a university speak of openness, equal opportunities and social responsibility, these values should not stop at our building entrances.
During her internship, Larissa Vorobiova gained an insight into the work of the ‘Information and Digital Services’ department. Her colleagues took the time to explain work processes, guided her through different areas and introduced her to the unique features of a modern University Library. From collection management and information systems to delivery services and user support, she became familiar with numerous aspects of day-to-day work.
The intern’s extraordinary curiosity was particularly impressive. Although she had previously worked mainly with traditional library systems, she approached our library’s digital processes with great enthusiasm. Online catalogues, the K10plus union catalogue, digital workflows and our exhibitions all became new areas of learning for her. At the same time, we were able to see just how quickly she picked up new concepts and put them into practice. Equally important, however, was something that cannot be captured in work schedules or internship reports.
Amidst the day-to-day work, conversations arose about different library cultures, about language, about starting afresh in a foreign country, and about how similar people often are when they share the same enthusiasm for their profession. What began as an internship turned into a chance to get to know one another.
Of course, providing such support costs time. In a working day characterised by deadlines, projects and ever-increasing demands, time often seems to be the scarcest resource. That is precisely why it deserves special attention. Because the time we invest can become a door for other people that might otherwise never have opened.
Taking responsibility for society
Universities have long since ceased to see themselves exclusively as places of research and teaching. Through what is known as the ‘Third Mission’, they take on responsibility for society. They share knowledge with the wider world, promote dialogue and play an active role in shaping social developments. This mission does not begin solely with large-scale knowledge transfer projects or public events. It is equally evident in the small, everyday decisions where people are prepared to take responsibility for one another.
Particularly at a time when social debates are often characterised by division, and issues such as migration, integration or cultural diversity are the subject of heated debate, such encounters take on special significance. In the run-up to important political decisions, they serve as a reminder that social cohesion is not created by headlines, but through collective action. Not by talking about people, but by working with them.
Larissa Vorobiova learnt a great deal during her week at our library. We are convinced of that. However, we have learnt at least as much ourselves. We have seen just how valuable different experiences can be. We were reminded that behind every CV lies a personal story. And we learnt that openness is not an abstract attitude, but a very concrete decision.
Perhaps social responsibility sometimes lies precisely in giving a single person the opportunity to demonstrate their abilities. For every door that is opened changes both sides. It opens up opportunities for those who enter and broadens the horizons of those who have opened it.
As a University Library, we wish to continue to be a place where knowledge grows, people come together and opportunities arise. Not because it is easy, but because we are convinced that this is precisely where the strength of a university lies.
TEXT: Carina Kröber, University Library