Contact: Melissa Cox Norris, Public Information Officer, (513) 556-1558 or melissa.norris@uc.edu
July 17, 2003 - Each July, the University of Cincinnati becomes a buzz with activity as 4,000 incoming freshmen and their parents converge on campus for a series of two-day orientation sessions. University Libraries plays a large role in freshmen orientation as Lansgam Library co-hosts a two-hour session along with UCit (University of Cincinnati Information Technology). Monday through Thursday from June 30-July 31, approximately 200 incoming-students are visiting Langsam Library daily to learn about University Libraries through interactive sessions.
The library sessions focus on three areas – library service, library technology, and library resources. Each area of focus is illustrated with a hands-on activity. Students participate in a live-chat reference session, use the technological resources available in the STRC (Student Technology Resources Center) to take digital photographs, and browse the current collection of books and materials from the various libraries that comprise University Libraries. Not only do these activities illustrate the ways the library assists students throughout their academic careers, but they also help orient them to the sometimes overwhelmingly large physical space that is Langsam Library.
Students are also introduced to the 10 College and Departmental Libraries – Archives and Rare Books; Curriculum Resources Center; Classics; College-Conservatory of Music; Geology/Physics; Chemistry/Biology; Design, Architecture, Art and Planning; College of Applied Science; Math; and Engineering. While time constraints prohibit the touring of all the University Libraries, students are exposed to the facilities through photos and descriptions of the collections. University Libraries hopes to dispel common library myths such as you have to be a science major to use the Geology/Physics or Chemistry/Biology Libraries, and to reinforce the fact that the libraries are central to academic success.
University Libraries is also displaying flags created by last year’s freshmen. During day two of orientation, first-year students create flags that reflect the college experience and what UC means to them personally. When creating the flags, students are encouraged to use UC branding symbols and themes of “Just Community.” When students arrive at Langsam for orientation, flags created by their peers last year will greet them. They will have an opportunity to be inspired by what was previously created, and recognize that their efforts will be appreciated by the class that follows. The flags are on display throughout orientation in the display cases in Langsam and Blegen Libraries, as well as throughout the Langsam Library building.
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