Libraries across the country celebrated National Library Week last week, and the University Library was not left behind in the celebration.
In 1958, the American Library Association (ALA) first introduced National Library Week to celebrate libraries and their influence on communities. Since then, libraries have adopted and celebrated National Library Week.
Paul Hottinger, an engineering librarian, said the University Library first celebrated National Library Week sometime between 2009-2010. This year, the University Library celebrated National Library Week from April 8-12.
Kris Zoleta, the head of outreach communication and public relations for the library, said National Library Week was a good way for students to learn about the various library services on campus while having fun.
“We’re celebrating National Library Week because it’s a good way to celebrate the library as the heart of the campus since it’s the busiest building on campus,” Zoleta said.
During the week, students participated in a variety of events hosted by the University Library, such as Library Trivia Night and a used book sale.
Therapy dogs also visited the library throughout the week to help students relax and de-stress from midterms and papers.
Angela Alvarez-Cendejas, a first-year urban and regional planning major, attended the used book sale and said the University Library is a great amenity to students.
“The library is definitely important to students,” Alvarez-Cendejas said. “The resources offered there, such as the Learning Resource Center and free tutoring, [are] really important and helpful because not everybody has access to it outside of school.”
Katie Richardson, the head of special collections and archives, said the two most important events during National Library Week were the Library Research Award Reception and the Golden Leaves program, because they recognized excellence and creativity in the use of the library’s resources, collections and services, as well as celebrated students, faculty, staff, alumni and retirees who have authored or edited a book in the preceding year.
The University Library will also continue to host more events as the school year winds down.
Zoleta said that the University Library plans to host over 200 events this school year, including more Library 101 workshops and guest lectures.
Hottinger said some of the library’s upcoming events will include a fan fiction workshop using the characters of the J.K. Rowling Potterverse on April 16, as well as a Pre-Finals Research Party co-hosted by the Library Club on April 17.
More information on upcoming events inside the library can be found on the University Library’s website at www.cpp.edu/~library/.