Hilda C. Landers Library, Archives & Media Center

Reopening for Fall 2020!

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Welcome to the Hilda C. Landers Library, Archives & Media Center!

This website details plans for reopening and the Fall 2020 semester. Please note that services and access have changed to protect the health and safety of our community. We may need to make further changes quickly as circumstances change. Thank you for understanding.

Contact us at ask@smcm.libanswers.com.

The library building reopens on Monday, August 17, 2020 at 8 am.

For Fall 2020, the library is open only to current College students, faculty, and staff.

Regular fall 2020 semester hours have changed and are listed here.

General Updates

  • If you are a returning student, please remember to return any library books or DVDs to the book drop in the library lobby at any time.
  • All materials that have been returned by patrons will be quarantined until they are safe to redistribute.
  • Food and drink are allowed in the library, but face coverings must be worn when not actively eating or drinking. We will monitor compliance and reserve the right to ban food and drink if necessary to preserve the health and safety of our community.
  • There are sanitizing stations throughout the library. Please wipe down your space before you settle in and again when you leave. 
  • The public computers and scanners require special cleaning solutions, so please do not clean them yourself. 
  • Plexiglass panels have been installed at the library circulation desk. If you are waiting for service, be aware of others and keep your social distance.
  • Furniture in open areas has been arranged so that seating is six feet apart. Please do not move furniture.
  • In areas where space is tight such as stairwells or book stacks, be aware of others and keep your social distance.
  • Access to all print journals (also known as periodicals) is restricted. To request a print journal issue or microfilm reel please fill out this form. You will be notified via email once the issue is ready at the library circulation desk, usually within 24 hours. Journal issues and microfilm reels must be used in the library building.
  • “Group study rooms” are now “study rooms” as capacity has been limited. Face coverings must be worn when not actively eating, drinking, or talking. Students may reserve a room in advance here. 
  • If you pick up a book or DVD and don’t plan to check it out at the library circulation desk, please place it on a library cart once you’re done. All materials that have been touched by patrons will be quarantined until they are safe to redistribute.

Check Out and Renew Materials

  • In order to improve accessibility, USMAI has redesigned the look of the St. Mary’s and USMAI catalogs.
  • Patrons can browse the stacks and bring items to the library circulation desk for checkout, or patrons can place a request in the St. Mary’s Catalog. Library staff will pull the book from the stacks for you and send an email to you once the book is ready for pick-up at the circulation desk. If you prefer that we mail the book to your home or campus address, reply to that email with your address details. At that point we’ll check the item out to you and put it in the US Mail or campus mail.
  • Borrowing physical books and other physical items from other USMAI (University System of Maryland & Affiliated Institutions Library Consortium) libraries is not yet available at this time. But any book not held by the St. Mary’s library can be requested via interlibrary loan.
  • Many materials can be renewed online through My Account. At this time USMAI libraries are waiving fines and fees for physical materials that cannot be renewed or returned. 

Research Assistance

  • Reference and research assistance are available. Our librarians by subject area are listed here.
  • All library instruction will take place remotely this fall. 

Archives

  • The College Archives is open by appointment. Visit the Archives website for additional details.

Media Center

  • To borrow equipment, contact Ken O’Connell, at kmoconnell@smcm.edu or 240-895-4269.
  • Return all equipment to the library circulation desk during the library’s open hours.
  • For assistance with digital media instruction and production, email mediacenter@smcm.edu. 

Primary Source Database: AM Explorer

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The St. Mary’s College of Maryland community now has access to over 60 significant collections of digitized archival material.

Adam Matthew Digital is a UK-based publisher of unique primary source material from leading archives and libraries around the world. Content spans the humanities and social sciences, from medieval manuscripts to 20th century global politics.

Adam Matthew provides access to all of their collection through one search engine called “AM Explorer.” Alternatively, you can access individual collections directly through the library’s A-Z Databases list.

Read on to learn about just a few of the collections available, some of the primary source materials they contain, and ideas for use in research and classes.

Colonial America

This collection features manuscripts and other documents from the National Archives (UK) from the early 17th through early 19th centuries. Content focuses on the early settlement of the colonies, American Indians, the American Revolution, legislation, trade, and the frontier–perhaps of special interest to local historians of St. Mary’s.

Maryland: Correspondence with the Secretary of State, 1688-1696: Addresses from Maryland to Their Majesties King William and Queen Mary: Council proceedings, 1693-1696 (Part 1), CO 5/718 Part 1

Highlight from the collection

Archivist Kent Randell, immediately upon finding out that the College has subscribed to AM Explorer, eagerly utilized this valuable resource and has already cited their Colonial History collections for his series of articles on the Susquehanna estate for the Maryland Genealogical Society Journal. Above is an excerpt of a memorandum regarding the case of Richard Smith, Jr., who was one of the most prominent Protestants to support the Catholic Third Lord Baltimore’s government until the “bitter end,” even after the Protestant Associators razed Lord Baltimore’s government in the Fall of 1689.  Richard Smith, Jr. refused to recognize the provisional rebel government and was imprisoned by the Protestant Associators, and above is an excerpt of a memo regarding his case prepared for the English Lords of Trade. Smith’s wife, Barbara (Morgan) (Rousby) Smith, traveled to England and successfully appealed to the Lords of Trade to have her husband removed from “gaol” (jail).

American Indian Newspapers

Forty-five digitized titles are available here, spanning around 200 years of U.S. history.  These newspapers include publications by tribal nations, students, and Christian missionaries in English and indigenous languages of the U.S. and Canada.  All of these papers are fully searchable and may allow for research contrasting the coverage and interpretation of events in indigenous versus mainstream publications.

Wassaja, May 1916, © The Newberry Library

Highlight from the collection

Indian School Journal was published by the Chilocco Indian Agricultural School from 1900-1980.  The monthly edition’s contents are the work of the Office of Indian Affairs (OIA), while the weekly edition was written by students.

Some of the issues provide a look into the everyday life, thoughts, and activities of the students, while others give insight into the OIA’s agenda.  Articles in the April 1906 issue, for example, seem to push assimilation as an imperative, bringing up negative stereotypes about the so-called blanket Indians, who remained committed to tribal traditions.  However, at times the articles directly respond to racist ideas with tongue in cheek humor; a mention of Comanche Chief Quanah Parker praises him as one good Indian who isn’t dead.

African American Communities

Focusing on communities in Atlanta, New York, Chicago, and North Carolina, the collection includes primary sources from the 19th and 20th centuries.  Researchers can find items including oral histories, newsletters, correspondence, family papers, and photographs. These materials may interest those studying race relations, housing problems, desegregation, the Civil Rights movement, and African-American culture and identity.

“All We Want is Freedom …”, n.d., © Kenan Research Center at the Atlanta History Center

Highlight from the collection

Interview with Kara Walker

The collection contains many video and audio oral history interviews, along with their transcripts.  Subjects include Quincy Jones, Koko Taylor Spike Lee, Gloria Naylor, and Cornel West. In this interview with visual artist Kara Walker, she describes the influence of artist Adrian Piper on her work, and the ways she uses silhouetted figures to interpret minstrelsy and romantic novels of the South.  Interviews may give viewers context for the work of the individuals highlighted, and a greater appreciation for the experiences shaping their lives and responses to overt and institutionalized racism.

Medical Services and Warfare

This collection gathers materials related to the Crimean War, the American Civil War and the First World War. The emphasis is on medical developments and their relationship to these conflicts, examining treatment during war and the influence in turn of war on medical breakthroughs.  Materials in this collection include clinical notes and medical records, correspondence, personal accounts, studies, military records, and the Florence Nightingale papers, containing handwritten letters that are searchable by keyword.

The Red Cross Magazine, Vol. 15, No. 5, May 1920, © Hoover Institution Library & Archives

Highlight from the collection

HMS Terrible: Medical and Surgical Journal, available in 3 volumes from 1853-1856

It may not surprise researchers to learn that life aboard the HMS Terrible was…difficult.  The Royal Navy ship, which fought in the Crimean War, records the health problems of its crew in this journal.  The ship’s surgeon tracked the name, age, role on the vessel, date, and outcome of the visit; i.e. sent back to duty, hospitalized, or occasionally, death.  The last pages of the journal give a tally of the incidents of particular medical issues, as well as offer the surgeon’s additional notes. Major culprits for infirmary visits include contusions (bruises), wounds, ulcers, phlogosis (inflammation), and rheumatism, with the most common communicable disease as syphilis.  Researchers may gain insight into the health of sailors aboard ships in the Crimean War, as well as sympathize with at least one soul sent to the hospital due to the severity of an ulcer on his foot.

Would You Rather?: #bookstofilm

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The Revenant

Michael Punke’s 2002 novel, The Revenant tells the story of frontiersman Hugh Glass as he navigates the wilderness in order to hunt down the man who killed his son. The story follows Glass as he travels the wilderness of Montana and South Dakota, surviving multiple attacks on his life, by both humans and animals. The movie was adapted into a film of the same name directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu in 2015, which was actually the film that Leonardo DiCaprio won his first and only Oscar award for. Would you rather live in the wilderness or live in a major city?

Gone Girl

Gillian Flynn’s 2012 novel Gone Girl is a mystery novel that tracks the tumultuous marriage of Nick and Amy Dunne. On their wedding anniversary Amy goes missing and all the signs point to Nick as the culprit. However, as the story continues it becomes very clear that not all things are as obvious as they seem, as the story is full of unpredictable surprises that leaves the reader hooked on every page. In 2014 director David Fincher directed the movie adaptation for the novel, with the screenplay being written by Flynn. The film visualizes the story into a physiological thriller, and like the novel, it deceives the audience up until the last moment. Would you rather live an unhappy, but safe life in your hometown with your family or would you rather move away to an unknown location and start your life over?

Life of Pi

Yann Martel’s 2002 novel, Life of Pi, is a book that explores the time that character Pi Patel spent shipwrecked with only a tiger named Richard Parker as company. The alternating narrative structure and undertones of spiritually make the novel a unique read. The movie adaptation directed by Ang Lee in 2012, brings the shipwreck to the big screen, giving viewers the visualization of Patel and Richard Parker’s adventure. Would you rather be stranded in the middle of an ocean or would you rather be stranded on a deserted island?

Catch Me If You Can

In the semi-biographical novel Catch Me If You Can by Frank Abagnale, the main character Frank Abagnale is a conman who cashed over $2 million dollars using fraudulent checks and multiple identities. Frank chooses a life of crime in order to live the lavish lifestyle he desired. The movie adaptation, directed by Steven Spielberg in 2002, follows the life of Abagnale, played by Leonardo DiCaprio, as he assumes various identities in order to conceal his crimes. Would you rather live lavishly but dishonestly, like Frank Abagnale, or would you rather live plainly but with integrity?

Interview With the Vampire

 Interview with the Vampire, written by Annie Rice in 1976, details the life of vampire Louis de Pointe du Lac. His life is filled with stories of death, betrayal, and love as Louis travels from America to Europe and meets various other vampires, dealing with the issues that come along with immortality. The movie adaptation from 1994 directed by Neil Jordan, stars Brad Pitt as Louis and was nominated for multiple awards. Would you rather live life eternally as a vampire or would you rather live a mortal life as a human?

Crazy Rich Asians

Crazy Rich Asians, written by Kevin Kwan in 2013, is the first book of a trilogy, with a main focus on introducing the Asian culture to the Western audiences. The book surrounds two main characters, Rachel Chu and Nicholas “Nick” Young’s romance relationships and the problems, both culturally and financially,  that they have to face from their parents and grandparents. Those problems presented in both the book and movie corresponds to the family issues that happen in current Chinese families. Would you rather give up your wealth and reputation altogether for love or stay in the comfort zone and do what the family asked?

Student Profile: Dirk Dupre

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A Film and Media Studies major with a Religious Studies minor, Dirk Dupre has a passion for filmmaking and video production. Previously a double major in religious studies, he was inspired to declare the major after taking classes with Dr. Meckel focusing on Indian religion and modern India (but opted for graduating on time in May over the double major!).

portrait of Dirk Dupre

Religious Studies brings another perspective to Dirk’s work with film, and Dr. von Kellenbach’s Religion and Ecology class had a direct influence on his film work. The class inspired an idea for an SMP related to religion, the environment, and surfing by framing environmentalism in a new way. Though Dirk would still like to pursue this idea, he ultimately decided to hold off on the project. “It would take years just to learn enough about surfing for the project,” Dirk says.

While he considered film schools, Dirk decided a liberal arts school would provide a broader education, along with the analytical and philosophical perspectives of classes in the humanities. SMCM happened to make the best offer, and the rest is history. Even though SMCM was chosen based on practical considerations, Dirk has enjoyed getting to know the people here and the beautiful campus. By necessity, he has learned to find things out for himself and seek film production opportunities beyond campus, experiences that challenged him to take initiative. Along with Media Center colleague Kevin Glotfelty, Dirk made a short film to practice filmmaking techniques and experience more of the technical elements of film production.

Dirk has worked with the Media Center for nearly 2 years, beginning during his sophomore year. After spending a lot of his time in the Media Center working on film projects, Justin Foreman mentioned an opportunity to work on a PFP project that Dirk was eager to participate in. Working with a team, Dirk has been producing, editing, and filming one minute videos to highlight the different majors at SMCM. He also helps students working with Photoshop or video production in the LAMC’s 3rd floor.

What has kept Dirk at the Media Center for so long? The staff has been supportive and invaluable in terms of providing creative feedback and professional advice. Justin has worked as both a supervisor and mentor, sharing practical advice about putting together demo reels, and giving student employees a sneak peek at his current projects.

When not behind the camera, Dirk is often at the mic hosting a radio show with Kevin or climbing the rec center’s rock wall. In addition to resetting the college’s climbing wall every semester, Dirk helps with rock climbing competitions held in the fall and spring semesters.

After graduation, Dirk plans to relax and enjoy bicycling along the C&O Canal starting from the Washington, DC area. He would like to continue working in DC with the film production company where he completed his internship. Ultimately, Dirk has his sights set on a city with a bigger film scene, like New York, Los Angeles, or Atlanta. He’d later like to find his own crew and make documentaries.

Can Dirk be a true film major without recommending a film or two?  Of course not! He suggests the documentary Free Solo, which follows the journey of a free soloer* attempting the first such climb of El Capitan in Yosemite. Dirk is also a fan of the highly stylized 1990s teen film Trust directed by Hal Hartley.

We’re sad Dirk is leaving the LAMC team soon, but we can’t wait to watch his documentaries!

*Free soloing: rock climbing by yourself without a harness

Share Your Work: An Interview with Jeff Eden

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Jeff Eden is an Assistant Professor of History at SMCM, and a (friendly) rival with our librarians for number of hours clocked at the library.  With a recently published book and strong opinions about suitable guest lecturers, Jeff answered some questions for us about his research and the role of the library in scholarship.

portrait of Jeff Eden

How long have you been here at SMCM?

This is my second semester at SMCM. I love it here: the beauty of the place; my wonderful students and colleagues; the liberating atmosphere of “sanctioned weirdness”; the feeling of deep history all around; and the beet salad I had a while ago at our unusually good dining hall, which was the best beet salad I’ve had in my life. And I’ve lived a life rich with beet salads.

What is your academic background?

I got a Ph.D. at Harvard, an M.A. at Indiana U, a B.A. at the U of Chicago, and a Participation Trophy from the Owings Mills Little League Baseball “Minors Division” (1993).  

What are your current research interests?

Right now I’m working on two projects: one about the Soviet Union during the Second World War, and one about slaves’ lives in Central Asia. My research agenda also includes dabbling, false starts, acid reflux, and awkward hallway smalltalk.

Tell us about your book (please)!

My most recent book is called Slavery and Empire in Central Asia (Cambridge, 2018), and I’ll let the official blurb take it from here: “The Central Asian slave trade swept hundreds of thousands of Iranians, Russians, and others into slavery during the eighteenth–nineteenth centuries. Drawing on eyewitness accounts, autobiographies, and newly-uncovered interviews with slaves, this book offers an unprecedented window into slaves’ lives and a penetrating examination of human trafficking. Slavery strained Central Asia’s relations with Russia, England, and Iran, and would serve as a major justification for the Russian conquest of this region in the 1860s–70s. Challenging the consensus that the Russian Empire abolished slavery with these conquests, Eden uses these documents to reveal that it was the slaves themselves who brought about their own emancipation by fomenting the largest slave uprising in the region’s history.”

How does the library help you in your research or the classroom?

Every research project I do starts with a tower of library books. The SMCM library’s collection is discerning and terrific, and our broader USMAI library system is the research resource that dreams are made of. Millions of books can be delivered right to the SMCM library circulation desk–one at a time, ideally!–within 2-4 days. And then there are the millions of articles available through the library’s online databases. And then there is Interlibrary Loan (ILL), which expands our reach from millions of sources to tens of millions.

What’s one thing you think students or faculty should know about the library, archives, or media center?

Students should definitely know the people. Librarians and archivists are experts in research methods and resources, and seeking their help is likely to yield great results. Their expertise extends to online research tech too: a couple weeks ago I learned some amazing Google search “hacks” from Kent Randell that I wish I’d learned years ago!

What are some interesting books or articles you’ve read recently?

The best book I’ve read recently is The Foundation Pit by Andrei Platonov– a dark, surreal satire of the Soviet Union written by a committed socialist & proud Soviet citizen. It’s one of those books where you keep trying to laugh and it keeps coming out as a deathly wheezing sound. For more modern (and less weird) stuff, the best book I’ve read lately is Zadie Smith’s Swing Time. It goes off the rails at times, but stick with it (and ignore the critics!)– it is wonderful.

Favorite reads, whether research related or not?

Fathers and Sons (Turgenev). The older I get, the better it gets. Loving this book is a requirement for passing my Russian Civilization class.

Favorite class you’ve taught?

I love all of my classes and all but one of my students.

(Yes, everyone but that mean guy back in 2013, when I was a TA. Why was he so mean? I hope he’s alright…)

If you could invite anyone, dead or alive, to guest lecture in your class, who would it be?

The only right answer is Genghis Khan. Deduct points for any other answer.

What else would you like our readers to know?

There are some really great book recommendations on this library blog!

Student Profile: Kevin Glotfelty

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As a Film and Media Studies major with a minor in English, Kevin Glotfelty has spent a lot of the past 4 years in front of the screen, behind portrait of Kevin Glotfeltythe camera, and onstage.

Growing up, Kevin learned to love films, spending a lot of time watching movies with his dad.  If you’re looking for a film recommendation, some of Kevin’s favorites include The Lobster, Dead Man (an acid Western), and Audition (a Japanese horror film).  When deciding on the major, Kevin chose film because of his love of movies and interest in learning about the behind-the-scenes of film production.

While studying at SMCM, Kevin has especially enjoyed Mark Rhoda’s Horror Film class as it made a horror fan of him by framing the genre as a way to look at and understand contemporary society.  Garrey Dennie’s classes have also been rewarding because of the instructor’s knowledge and insight into African studies. Specifically, Kevin highlights Africa and the African Diaspora and Redemption Songs, the latter of which makes interesting connections to reggae music.

Kevin is currently completing a nature documentary for his SMP, which focuses on the conservation of salt marshes in St. Mary’s County.  The film will address why these ecosystems should be conserved, what we can gain by protecting salt marshes, and what may happen if we do not.

In his free time, Kevin participates in Philosophy Club, hosts The Lit Hour on Wednesdays on Seahawk Radio, and has played a role in SMCM productions including Machinal, Spring Awakening, and Happy Birthday, Wanda June.

Kevin is a Marylander from Bowie, though his mother is a St. Mary’s County local.  When considering colleges, Kevin was looking to stay in-state, but hadn’t seriously considered SMCM or even been to visit.  He decided on a whim to attend and doesn’t regret it.

At the LAMC, this spring marks Kevin’s 4th semester working in the 3rd floor Media Center.  As someone with an interest in cameras and sound equipment, Kevin enjoyed learning about the equipment and services available there.  After getting to know supervisor Justin, Kevin was able to get paid to do what he already enjoys. When new equipment comes in, Kevin relishes the opportunity to “play with the toys.”

Kevin will graduate at the end of spring semester in May 2019.  After graduation, Kevin plans to find freelance production work in the Washington, D.C. area, eventually moving on to Atlanta.  Though he’s not looking forward to the heat, Kevin finds the film production opportunities in Atlanta exciting, as well as the Southern food and trap music.

We will miss Kevin when he leaves St. Mary’s and the LAMC, but we’re looking forward to seeing his name appear in the credits of many a film on IMDb!

Copyright Workshop on March 19, 10:00-11:30am

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Copyright:  an evil plan for Disney to make money from Mickey Mouse until the end of time?  Perhaps. However, concepts surrounding intellectual property including fair use, the public domain, and Open Access have implications for everyone in higher education.

For further exploration of copyright concerns in the classroom, join us in the LAMC room 321 on Tuesday, March 19th from 10:00-11:30am.  Danielle Johnson, Digital Access Librarian at the Loyola Notre Dame Library, will provide information on copyright in education, hands-on learning activities, and answers to your questions.

Already a copyright expert?  Take our quiz below to test your knowledge!

Incredibly Serious and Challenging Copyright Quiz

For the images below, identify whether we are including each thanks to Open Access, public domain, or Creative Commons (or are you the U.S. Copyright Office here to break the bad news that we are violating copyright permissions)?

Image 1:  Cat by Vladimir Pustovit

picture of a gray cat reaching for a potted plant

Question:  Open Access, public domain, or Creative Commons?

Answer:  Creative Commons

Specifically, this image is licensed through Creative Commons by 2.0.  This means the creator allows use of this image for any reason as long as I give proper credit and place no additional restrictions on the use of this image; i.e. I can’t decide to copyright this image.

Image 2:  Woman with Earrings, 100-105 C.E., Brooklyn Museum

painting of a woman with dark hair and earrings

Question:  Open Access, public domain, or Creative Commons?

Answer:  in the public domain

Most works created before 1923 fall into the public domain (though there are exceptions).  The Brooklyn Museum also provides detailed information about copyright restrictions in this item’s Rights Statement, as many museums do.

Image 3: Boy Scout Scouting Asia by sasint

six children walk in a straight line across fields of green grass

Question:  Open Access, public domain, or Creative Commons?

Answer:  Open Access

This is also known as Creative Commons 0, meaning the creator has placed zero restrictions on use of this image.

However, note that this creator does still specify some requirements for use as it has been marked for editorial or non-commercial use only.  Though the creator does not require attribution, it’s still a good idea to give credit when you can. This will help others find the image should they wish to use it, as well as yourself if you forget where you found the image!

How did you do?

If you still have questions, we invite you to attend the 3/19 workshop, which will cover the basics of copyright law, including the public domain, exceptions for faculty in copyright law, licenses, fair use, and seeking permissions.

In the meantime, check out the library’s copyright guide for more information about using images and other works while respecting the rights holder (and avoiding getting sued)!

Header image of Copyright logo by PNGimg licensed CC 4.0 BY-NC

Student Employee Profile: Caitlyn Gerwitz

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Caitlyn Gerwitz is a library student employee of many talents and interests, characteristics that are reflected in her choice of studies.  A portrait of Caitlyn GerwitzBiochemistry major with a minor in Dance, Caitlyn expects to earn her Bachelor’s of Science in the fall of 2019. She is currently working to complete an SMP exploring the prevention of rust on aluminum and metals.  Don’t be discouraged if this goes over your head: the project is an expansion of Caitlyn’s year and a half of research on the Pax River Naval Base to investigate preventing rust in aircraft materials. If the project continues as expected, the results will literally go over everyone’s head (except perhaps Caitlyn’s).

Caitlyn comes to Maryland from across the pond; though from Westminster, Maryland, she came to St. Mary’s from England.  After a friend clued her in about SMCM, both decided to attend the college together. When considering colleges, SMCM stood out as a lovely, inclusive campus that was close to family.  As a graduate of a small school, Caitlyn hoped to attend a small college, and was interested in the Pre-professional Pre-Vet program at St. Mary’s.

As a student employee who has worked with us for 3 years, Caitlyn helps the staff in Collections Support Services (CSS).  CSS is the area of the library that includes Cataloging and Technical Services, which handles much of the behind-the-scenes work of the library by managing new books, journals, and other print materials, organizing them, and preparing them to be checked out by patrons.

Caitlyn feels she lucked out in the job search–when looking for on-campus employment, she really clicked with her supervisor, Cheryl Colson.  In addition to a sweet supervisor (who bakes excellent cakes!), Caitlyn appreciates the relaxed environment, where she can work at her own pace to process all of those new materials with care.

On top of working and studying on campus, Caitlyn is involved with several extracurriculars, including InterChorus, an acapella group, and a Pre-Vet club.  When she gets a chance to visit her family in Georgia, she enjoys spending her time with her dog, Toby, who she admits would not make a good campus pet with his loud bark and high energy.

After her graduation in December, Caitlyn plans to attend veterinary school at Ross University.  In addition to its gorgeous Caribbean setting, Caitlyn can get all of the insider information from Cheryl’s daughter, a graduate of the university’s veterinary program.  Ultimately, Caitlyn’s goal is to start an animal rescue. I think we can all agree the immediate vicinity of SMCM would be an ideal location for us to enjoy cuddles with cute animals the wellbeing of the animals.

While we will miss working with Caitlyn after her graduation, we are grateful for all of her hard work as a student employee and excited to see that animal rescue open!

Share Your Best Pun for Our Valentine’s Display

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You’re #1 in our book! (For our trendier readers, that’s “number one” rather than “hashtag one.”) At the LAMC, we’re crafting puns to celebrate Valentine’s Day…and National Discount Candy Day on February 15th.

We’d love to see your clever, creative, or cringeworthy puns! Come into the 1st floor of the library and write your pun on a paper cut-out waiting especially for you. We’ll post your work of art in our lobby display, where the world can admire your wit.

If you need inspiration, we have several romantic and Romantic novels available for checkout. Here are 8 of our top picks, along with staggeringly brilliant puns for each:

cover art for the book Jane EyreJane Eyre by Charlotte Brontëportrait of a fluffy gray tabby cat reclining on a blanket
Stacks; Call number: PR4167 .J3 1996
“I lava you”
After surviving childhood as an unwanted orphan, Jane readily accepts a position as governess for a mysterious and frequently absent employer, Edward Rochester. As she falls for Rochester, Jane must find a way to stay true to herself–especially when a sinister secret causes things to heat up. As in things actually catch fire. (Fun fact: my cat is named after a character in this novel. Literature: changing lives.)

Maurice by E.M. Forstercover art for the book Maurice
Stacks; Call number: PR6011.O58 M3 1993
“You’re my cup of tea”
Written in the 1910s, Forster’s tale of a gay man’s unrequited love remained unpublished until the 1970s. The only thing more English than the rigidity of the class system and repression of romantic feelings is tea–all of which feature heavily in this story about opposing the unwritten rules of society.

cover art for the book Of Love and Other DemonsOf Love and Other Demons by Gabriel García Márquez
Stacks; Call number: PQ8180.17.A73 D4513 1995
“I’m hair for you”
On her twelfth birthday, Sierva Maria, whose beautifully flowing hair has never been cut, is bitten by a rabid dog. Following the incident, Sierva is taken to a convent, crossing paths with Father Cayetano Delaura, who has already dreamed about a girl with hair trailing after her like a bridal train.

Dearly, Departed by Lia Habelcover art for the book Dearly Departed
Popular Reading; Call number: HABEL
“I love you for your braaaaaaains”
Love conquers all, so they say. But can Cupid’s arrow pierce the hearts of the living and the dead – or rather, the undead? Can a proper young Victorian lady find true love in the arms of a dashing zombie?

cover art for the book How Stella Got Her Groove BackHow Stella Got Her Groove Back by Terry McMillan
Popular Reading; Call number: MCMILLAN
“Shell we dance?”
Stella Payne is forty-two, divorced, a high-powered investment analyst, mother of eleven-year-old Quincy- and she does it all. But when Stella takes a spur-of-the-moment vacation to Jamaica, her world gets rocked to the core–not just by the relaxing effects of the sun and sea and an island full of attractive men, but by one man in particular.

Wild Ginger by Anchee Mincover art for the book Wild Ginger
Stacks; Call number: PS3563.I4614 W35 2002
“If you were a triangle, you’d be acute one”
As Wild Ginger rises through the ranks of Maoist China, she finds herself increasingly at odds with her best friend, Maple. When both friends are interested in the same young man, will Wild Ginger’s commitment to friendship, romantic love, or Maoist principles win out?

cover art for the book City of NightCity of Night by John Rechy
Stacks; Call number: PS3568.E28 C5 2013
“I donut know what I’d do without you”
This 1963 novel was groundbreaking in its portrayal of a young gay sex worker along a cross-country journey from New York City to San Francisco. The story includes the events of the Cooper Do-nut Riots, a 1959 uprising in which members of the LGBTQ community protested the attempted arrests of drag queens, sex workers, and a gay man at the donut establishment.

Landline by Rainbow Rowellcover art for the book Landline
Popular Reading; Call number: ROWELL
“Don’t go bacon my heart”
Georgie McCool loves her husband Neal, but her marriage has been deteriorating for a long time. One night, Georgie discovers a way to communicate with Neal in the past. Through the titular landline, Georgie attempts to avoid heartbreak by fixing her marriage before it starts.

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Honoring the Legacy of Dr. King: Suggested Books and Films

by

On Monday, January 21, classes will be cancelled to mark Martin Luther King Jr. Day.  The holiday recognizes King’s birthday on January 15, 1929; had King lived, he would be 90 years old.

Several events on campus commemorate King’s legacy as a Civil Rights activist, minister, and crusader against racial injustice, socioeconomic inequality, and violence of the Vietnam War.  Consider attending the MLK Prayer Breakfast or lending a hand for a Day of Service on Monday. Or attend the screening and discussion of an episode from the documentary series “Eyes on the Prize” on Tuesday.

You can also honor the importance of King’s work by learning more about him and the lives of other Civil Rights activists.  Did you know Martin Luther King Jr. posthumously won a Grammy in 1971? Or that Rosa Parks served on the Board of Advocates of Planned Parenthood?  Check out a film, biography, or novel from the Library to dive deeper into the Civil Rights movement and its legacy.

Film

cover for the DVD of the film 4 Little Girls4 Little Girls

DVD Collection; Call number: F334.B69 N45 2010

When a bomb tears through the basement of a black Baptist church on a peaceful fall morning, it takes the lives of four young girls; Denise McNair, Carole Robertson, Cynthia Wesley and Addie Mae Collins. This racially motivated crime, taking place at a time when the civil rights movement is burning with a new flame, could have doused that flame forever. Instead it fuels a nation’s outrage and brings Birmingham, Alabama to the forefront of America’s concern.

Citizen King

DVD Collection; Call number: E185.97.K5 C585 2004

In exploring the last few years of his life, this American Experience production traces King’s efforts to recast himself by embracing causes beyond the civil rights movement, by becoming a champion of the poor and an outspoken opponent of the war in Vietnam. Tapping into a rich archive of photographs and film footage and using diaries, letters, and eyewitness accounts of fellow activists, friends, journalists, political leaders and law enforcement officials, this film brings fresh insights to King’s impossible journey, his charismatic leadership and his truly remarkable impact.

Ely Landau’s Kingcover for 2-disc set of the film King

DVD Collection; Call number: E185.97.K5 K564 2013

The life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., from the beginnings of the Civil Rights movement in Montgomery, Alabama, and culminating with his assassination in Memphis in 1968. Including archival footage, this film is an indispensable primary resource of a pivotal moment in American and world history. Originally screened in theaters for only a single night in 1970.

Non-fiction

Becoming King: Martin Luther King, Jr. and the Making of a National Leader by Troy Jackson

Call number: E185.97.K5 J343 2008

Author Troy Jackson chronicles King’s emergence and effectiveness as a civil rights leader by examining his relationship with the people of Montgomery, Alabama. Using the sharp lens of Montgomery’s struggle for racial equality to investigate King’s burgeoning leadership, Jackson explores King’s ability to connect with the educated and the unlettered, professionals and the working class.

cover art for the book MarchMarch by John Lewis

Call number: E840.8.L43 A3 2013 book 1

This graphic novel is a first-hand account of Congressman John Lewis’ lifelong struggle for civil and human rights, meditating in the modern age on the distance traveled since the days of Jim Crow and segregation. Rooted in Lewis’ personal story, it also reflects on the highs and lows of the broader civil rights movement. Book one spans Lewis’ youth in rural Alabama, his life-changing meeting with Martin Luther King, Jr., the birth of the Nashville Student Movement, and their battle to tear down segregation through nonviolent lunch counter sit-ins, building to a stunning climax on the steps of City Hall.

Power to the Poor: Black-Brown Coalition and the Fight for Economic Justice by Gordon K. Mantler

Ebook; read it here

In a major reinterpretation of civil rights and Chicano movement history, Gordon K. Mantler demonstrates how King’s unfinished crusade became the era’s most high-profile attempt at multiracial collaboration and sheds light on the interdependent relationship between racial identity and political coalition among African Americans and Mexican Americans. Mantler argues that while the fight against poverty held great potential for black-brown cooperation, such efforts also exposed the complex dynamics between the nation’s two largest minority groups.

Origins of the Dream: Hughes’ Poetry and King’s Rhetoric by W. Jason Millercover art for the book Origins of the Dream

Call number: PS3515.U274 Z6844 2015

For years, some scholars have privately suspected Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech was connected to Langston Hughes’s poetry, and the link between the two was purposefully veiled through careful allusions in King’s orations. In Origins of the Dream, W. Jason Miller lifts that veil to demonstrate how Hughes’s revolutionary poetry became a measurable inflection in King’s voice, and that the influence can be found in more than just the one famous speech.

The Rebellious Life of Mrs. Rosa Parks by Jeanne Theoharis

Call number: F334.M753 P3883 2013

The definitive political biography of Rosa Parks examines her six decades of activism, challenging perceptions of her as an accidental actor in the civil rights movement and presenting a corrective to the popular notion of Rosa Parks.

Fiction and Poetry

cover art for the book Your Blues Ain't Like MineYour Blues Ain’t Like Mine by Bebe Moore Campbell

Popular Reading; Call number: Fiction Campbell

Moving quickly and believably from the eve of integration in rural Mississippi to the present-day street gangs in Chicago’s housing projects, Campbell captures the gulf between pre-and post-civil rights America; her story, starting with the murder of a young black man whose trial–argued before an all-white jury–captures national attention, shows us how far we have come and yet suggests we have not come so far after all.

Words of Protest, Words of Freedom: Poetry of the American Civil Rights Movement and Era edited by Jeffrey Lamar Coleman

Call number: PS595.R32 W549 2012

Words of Protest, Words of Freedom is the first comprehensive collection of poems written during and in response to the American civil rights struggle of 1955–75. Featuring some of the most celebrated writers of the twentieth century—including Maya Angelou, Amiri Baraka, Gwendolyn Brooks, Allen Ginsberg, Robert Lowell, and Derek Walcott—alongside lesser-known poets, activists, and ordinary citizens, this anthology presents a varied and vibrant set of voices, highlighting the tremendous symbolic reach of the civil rights movement within and beyond the United States.

Dreamer: A Novel by Charles Johnsoncover art for the book Dreamer

Call number: PS3560.O3735 D7 1998

Set against the tensions of Civil Rights era America, Dreamer is a remarkable fictional excursion into the last two years of Martin Luther King Jr.’s life, when the political and personal pressures on this country’s most preeminent moral leader were the greatest. While in Chicago for his first northern campaign against poverty and inequality, King encounters Chaym Smith, whose startling physical resemblance to King wins him the job of official stand-in. Matthew Bishop, a civil rights worker and loyal follower of King, is given the task of training the smart and deeply cynical Smith for the job.

While we have many books in the Library about Martin Luther King, Jr. and the Civil Rights movement, we don’t have them all.  Are we missing a great book or film about King?  Let us know!

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