Library/Department:
I work in the Rubenstein Library (RL), in the Access Services department. We’re a small team tucked in alongside the Research Services department.
Location: On-site at the Rubenstein Library, Monday through Friday.
Years at Duke: Four years in May!
In a nutshell, what do you do at Duke University Libraries?
I’m the Research Services Reproduction Manager. I help connect researchers from allover the world request digitization of materials from the Rubenstein Library’s collections. My days flow between digitization work, reference support, time in the RL reading room, and all sorts of meaningful tasks that help people access our collections.
If you had to pick one thing, what’s the best part of your job so far?
Honestly, I love helping people. For me, there’s something really meaningful about supporting someone’s research journey and helping them find what they need.
What’s the best thing you’ve read/watched/listened to recently?
- Listened to: Adrianne Lenker, Big Thief
- Read: Does It Matter? Essays on Man’s Relation to Materiality by Alan Watts.
- Watched: My Octopus Teacher on Netflix — a beautiful reminder of connection in all its forms.
What do you like most about living in the Triangle?
I love the local skateparks—Apex, Durham, Chapel Hill, Hillsborough. Wherever I wander, there always seems to be a welcoming spot to skate.
What do you like to do outside of work?
Outside of work, you’ll usually find me skateboarding. disc golfing, or playing music. The Triangle’s skate scene has such an open, supportive atmosphere. I do also love playing music and have a real passion for playing and performing Renaissance and Baroque lute music. I’m hoping to play a concert at DUL Summer Camp this year.
If you’re curious about my music, you can find it on Spotify @nealzshipe or on YouTube @nealzshipe.
