OhioLINK’s Favorite Library Event Ideas of 2015
Throughout 2015, OhioLINK’s 121 member libraries came up with fun and clever ways to engage with students, faculty, staff and researchers. And the result? Not only did everyone involved have a great time, but the libraries were able to share what they’re all about with their communities. Here is a list of some of our favorites from this year!
Adult Coloring:
Coloring pages have become all the rage. The University of Dayton Roesch Library scheduled various times for students (who knows, maybe faculty participated also) to come enjoy some relaxation with all the coloring supplies provided! Many other member libraries hosted coloring events as well.
Late Night Events:
We all know students and researchers stay up late. One great way to engage with night-owls using the library is to host a late-night event. Northwest State Community College has an event called “Write in the Night,” which is based on an event at an academic library in Germany called the Long Night Against Procrastination (LNAP). Since Northwest State is a commuter campus the library stayed open until midnight. Students were able to participate in both academic events and stress-relief activities. For academic purposes, mini workshops on finding sources, formatting papers and writing an outline were held and for individual assistance the Writing Lab and Library were also available. For those who needed a study break, there was a relaxation room with aromatherapy, calming music, a mini Zen garden and other relaxing activities. A Game Room also had board games and coloring pages, as well as an hourly quiz contest. There were even snacks and a prize wheel, a photo booth and a wellness poster exhibit! Several other schools have hosted late-night events too, including a haunted library Halloween costume contest, game nights and even a knitting party.
Hack Your Research Project:
Ohio University’s Alden Library hosted an event to help anyone conducting research to learn more about the process. There are so many resources available through your library with the help of OhioLINK that workshops such as these have to be a big help toward a successful outcome in research!
Therapy Dogs:
Who doesn’t love dogs? Many of our member libraries hosted therapy dogs this past year and the students, faculty and staff who participated all seemed to find a smile to share!
In 2015, many exciting events happened on campuses all across Ohio, and our 121 member libraries certainly contributed their fair share. Engaging with anyone from the first-year student to a tenured professor allows the library services to be more visible and therefore more likely to be accessed. We are excited to see what 2016 has in store for OhioLINK and the consortium! Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Google+ and of course check out our website for updates on researcher success stories, OhioLINK resources and to connect with us. Be sure to tell us what cool programs your library hosts!
