University of Michigan Alternative Spring Break

The Folger Shakespeare Library is a host institution for the University of Michigan Alternative Spring Break. From the School of Information site: "UMSI Alternative Spring Break (ASB) creates the opportunity for students to engage in a service-oriented integrative learning experience; connects public sector organizations to the knowledge and abilities of students through a social impact project; and facilitates and enhances the relationship between the School and the greater community." We are pleased to be a part of this mission.

This article should serve as the home base for information for visiting students.

For more information about the Folger, visit our website: http://www.folger.edu/. If there is inclement weather, such as a snowstorm, please follow these procedures Folger inclement weather policy.

For participants

Directions to get from the Hotel Harrington to the Folger Shakespeare Library

Metro map.jpg
  • Walk one block south on 11th St. NW toward Pennsylvania Ave. NW
  • Turn right on Pennsylvania Ave. NW
  • Walk one block, then turn left onto 12th St. NW until you reach the Federal Triangle Metro Station.
    • Take the Orange, Silver, or Blue line train toward New Carrollton or Largo Town Center.
      • You will need to purchase a SmarTrip card at the Metro Station kiosk, $10 will purchase a reusable card and $8 fare.
  • Get off the train at Capitol South Station (four stations)
  • Walk toward C St. SE on First St SE, continue walking straight until you reach Independence Ave. SE.
  • Cross Independence Ave. and walk straight until you reach East Capitol St. SE
  • Turn right on East Capitol St. SE and walk one block.
  • Cross Second St. SE, the Folger will be on your right.

First day

The students should enter the first door nearest the corner of East Capitol and Second Streets (Research entrance) at 9 am.

Arrival at workplace

Ask for Erin Blake at the security desk and wait for her to meet you. If she is unavailable, her assistant Rachel Dankert will greet you. If you need to reach us you may phone (202) 675-0323 (shared line).

Normal working hours

9 am to 5 pm with a one hour lunch break.

Work attire

Business casual.

Dining options while at work

Students can either bring their lunches with them (there are microwaves, refrigerators, and silverware/plates and bowls). Otherwise, there is a number of dining out options on Pennsylvania Ave. NW, two blocks from the Folger, including Pret a Manger, Good Stuff Eatery, We the Pizza!, Firehook Bakery, Starbucks, Sweetgreen salads, and Burrito Brothers, among many others. Feel free to ask for a list of full dining options at HR on your first day.

Should the student(s) bring anything with them (laptop, etc?)

All materials will be provided.

Preparation

Read the following Folgerpedia article: Ghost Busters: Eliminating non-existent STC numbers for Early English Books. For this project, students will be handling rare books. Please review the following guidelines: Handling vault materials.