No wonder Copyright is so 'not with the times'!!!

Check out this article; The head of the U.S. Copyright office doesn't have a computer at home!

http://www.news.com/8301-10784_3-9779996-7.html

Database Demonstrations

Librarians:

Maybe the word "workshop" is not the best way to get the message across to some of our students. After all, a workshop implies 30 minutes to 60 minutes of PowerPoint presentations, handouts, and activities *blah*. And, after all, aren't students already subjected to that when they are in class?

Maybe, instead, we could consider using the terminology "Database Demonstrations" - and DO exactly that. Set up very informally - maybe have a few computers set up already pointed to a specific database. Offer one handout on the use of that database, and show students how to utilize it. Or, set up a computer with a power point about the database that continually restarts, and answer questions during the "demonstration".

Think about it like a Conference vendor display - maybe even have small prizes just for showing up :)

Study-a-thon at Eagan

The Mentor Center Coordinator and I planned a Study-a-thon on Saturday Sept. 8th from 10-2. It was a huge success. About 30-35 students attended. We offered prizes (Wal-Mart gift cards) and food. Many students met in study groups. The Mentor Center Coordinator, tutors, and I were all available to answer many questions. It was great to see the library and computers labs buzzing with students studying for finals and finishing up research papers. In the future we are planning on doing more study-a-thons during a Saturday around Midterms and again at the end of the quarter. We think that Saturdays work best for students to not have conflicts with daycare, their classes, etc. I highly recommend doing this at other campuses. It is not always fun to come to work on a Saturday, but it was nice to get out early on Friday :)

Database Statistics ....

Our database statistics have tumbled over the past year.

Would anyone like to wager educated guesses as to why?

Faculty Workshop?

I'm hoping to host a faculty workshop at the beginning of next quarter and am looking for some ideas on this. I've never given a faculty workshop, and for some reason I find it a little unnerving. I would love some advice on this and also to hear what has been done successfully in the past. Also, how long does the typical faculty workshop run? Thanks!

Addy Will Know

A song for librarians..