Faith Perera searching for a book at J.D. Williams Library, Tuesday, April 14, 2015. (DM Photo | Kayla Beatty)
The JD Williams library celebrates National library week with events throughout the week to get students on campus aware of the importance of the library for both universities and communities.
The events started yesterday with “Books-n-Lunch” with Ace Atkins. The event allowed students and faculty to have lunch with their favorite librarians for National Library Workers Day.
Melissa Dennis, Assistant Professor and Library Outreach and Instruction Librarian, explained how the JD Williams library has celebrated the week in recent years.
“Last year, we helped organize the books and lunch event at the public library by inviting all Library staff from the University and schools and local libraries to meet at the event,” Dennis said.
The JD Williams Library has seen continuous growth since its establishment. The library houses over 2 million books and continues to provide the needed assistance to students relying on it.
Assistant Dean for Public Services and Associate Professor Jocelyn Tipton asserted that libraries everywhere are constantly changing to address the needs of users and the campus. While staff at the library still collects print materials, they are also expanding resources available electronically through databases, electronic books, and media streaming.
“I’ve only been here for two years,” Tipton said. “But even in that short time I’ve seen a number of good changes taking place in the library.”
Tipton said the creation of the Ainsworth Commons and remodeled the Baxter Room as efforts to provide better study space and access to technology. At the request of their users, they have expanded their hours. As enrollment continues to increase, the use of the library also increases.
Junior Education major Amber Fields commented on the value of the week-long celebration.
“I highly encourage any student or faculty member or staff member who is unsure what the library can do for them to attend one or more event during National Library Week,” Dennis stated. “Our librarians are here to make your lives easier, and we can do things that you may have thought impossible to help you succeed at Ole Miss.”
Today there will be a library workshop on advanced Google searching in Room 106E of the library. Students will receive a certificate for participating and Dennis encourages students to ask instructors about extra credit. The week of events will continue on Thursday with a Library Open House in room 106E. There will be food, games, and a special library tour to celebrate National Library Week. The events are open to the public and RSVP is required.
J.D. Williams hosts
