From 2016 - 2018, this blog included themes related to the study of English, Philosophy and Modern Languages. I no longer work at Alkek Library, so this blog is no longer updated. Some of the information and links may be outdated.
I am very saddened by the apparent suicide of student Travis Green at our University. I did not know him, but I have known people who have made the decision to take their own life, and I know how terribly difficult it is for their family and friends to comprehend.
And if you need to speak with someone for any reason at all, please know that it is a sign of great strength to reach out and ask for help when you are feeling helpless. The University offers many different types of counseling services: http://www.counseling.txstate.edu/services/counsel.html
This poem has been a salve for me when I have gone through coping with the suicide of someone close:
Individuation by Avah Pevlor Johnson
If I must be wrung through the paradox,
-- broken into wholeness,
wring me around the moon;
pelt me with particles from the dark side.
Fling me into space;
hide me in a black hole.
Let me dance with devils
on dead stars.
Let my scars leave brilliant traces,
for my highborn
soul seeks its hell --
in high places.
That one assignment you've been putting off... you know which one I'm talking about.
Come to the LONG NIGHT AGAINST PROCRASTINATION - hosted by the Alkek Library, Thursday, November 10th from 6-11pm. We'll provide the coffee, snacks, study breaks and research support to help you finish that dastardly assignment.
Subject Librarians will be on hand throughout the night. We've all hired cat-sitters, so don't miss out on the opportunity for after-hours, personalized research help!
For the nerds: The tradition of "Long Night" originated at a University in Germany in 2010 - students asked for longer open hours in which they could study and finish assignments. This lead to an overnight event at the University with refreshments, study breaks, exercises and other incentives to keep students active and on task.
Fall is in the air... crisp, cool weather and the crunch of colorful leaves beneath your feet.
That's what I hear is going on in the Northeast anyway. Here in San Marcos, we're "enjoying" highs in the 80s, in November! This transplant from New York is ready to wear her Fall boots and sweaters. Oh well, maybe in December?
In any case, what does the idea of colder weather make you think of? For me it's taking some time away from my (too) busy week to enjoy some story telling, ideally though a novel I have a hard time putting down and can't wait to pick up again.
On my drive in to campus today, I enjoyed an interview on NPR where editor Terry McDonell told some tales of hanging out with literary greats he has known. It got me thinking about all of my favorite authors, and making a mental list of which novels I wanted to revisit, or new ones I've been wanting to fall into.
What kind of literature do you enjoy when you find some time away from your busy schedule of classes, research and time spent with friends?
Please join us today as we celebrate our freedom to read
banned books. Located in Alkek Library, Open Theater, 2nd floor (to
the right of the coffee shop area) until 4pm.
5-minute reading slots are still available. A sign-up sheet
is located at the entrance of the event.
We would be honored if you would consider being one of our
readers. A selection of banned and challenged books will be available in the
Open Theater area for Banned Books readers to browse through. You are also free
to bring your own book.
For more information about Banned and Challenged Books:
Have you ever wanted to browse a newspaper or magazine on your computer or phone - possibly for research for a class, or maybe just for your own enjoyment during your free time?
Sometimes it's nice to browsethe contents and "flip" through the newspaper or magazine, without knowing exactly what you're looking for. I suggest using PressReader and Browzine for this type of browsing experience!
Are you an International student who wants to read newspapers and magazines from home? Titles in PressReader can be filtered by Country, Region, Language and more.
Maybe you're learning a new language and you'd like to practice your skills by reading a newspaper or magazine in that language? If so, do you like dogs? Are you learning German? You can read Mein Hund!
More interested in French culture? Spend some time browsing the French cultural magazine, Les Inrockuptibles. The possibilities are seemingly endless.
Save your favorites to your account, and check back periodically to skim the latest issues!
What are you waiting for? Go find your favorite newspapers and magazines (and find some new favorites while you're at it). Fashion, mechanics, photography, lifestyle, parenting, psychology, finance, business, home decor, cooking, art, religion, and so many more! All in the language you prefer.
Watch the short videos below to see what you can do with Browzine and PressReader.
