Month: February 2019

In the coldest February in Saskatchewan since the 1930s, it warmed the library staff hearts to discover this beautiful drawing in the Archer Library today.

Did you know that the Archer Alcove in the Archer Library has blackboards and chalk to create wonderful drawings? Just walk past the elevators on the main floor to discover the Archer Alcove. A “chill zone”, created to take a break from your studies, that provides games, puzzles, colouring, chalk walls, and a desk treadmill. And of course we are curious who made this wonderful drawing…

February 24 to March 2 is Freedom to Read Week.  This annual event is organized by the Book and Periodical Council’s Freedom of Expression Committee.  The aim of this event is to encourage “Canadians to think about and reaffirm their commitment to intellectual freedom, which is guaranteed them under the Charter of Rights and Freedoms” (Freedom to Read Week, 2019).

In recognition of this event, the Dr. John Archer Library has created a display of challenged books that can be found in our collection.  Some of them may surprise you!

To learn more about this event and what you can do to support intellectual freedom, visit the Freedom to Read website.

 

Regina has been caught in a very cold spell these last few weeks.  We have persevered,  and hopefully this week has been either a rest-and-relaxation week, or a productive catch-up week!  Archer Library will continue to be open regular hours as students prepare for the rest of the semester.   Come and say hi to the friendly folks at the front desk who can help you with your studying and research questions!

If you didn’t have a chance to have a winter break in warmer climates,  here is a heartwarming story about the magnificent Biblioburro!  Luis Soriano brings books to remote areas of Columbia on two donkeys,  providing education and reading material to those who would otherwise have little access.   “Biblioburro” is basically a play on words that means just what you imagine:  Donkey Library!  Biblioburro has inspired a couple of children’s books, and even a PBS special.

Photo credit and more information:  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biblioburro

The University Library has recently purchased a map titled Coming Home Indigenous Place Names in Canada. Located on Archer Library’s main floor by the elevators, the intention of the map is to create respect for Indigenous homelands and sovereignties, and a feeling for and understanding of the place names across Canada, shared by permission of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities and people.

Continue reading “Indigenous place names map now available”

Brad Doerksen has been a librarian with the Archer Library for three years.  His first role here was as a copyright librarian, but he now serves as our Student Success Librarian.  Away from the library, Brad enjoys puzzles, canoeing, and cycling.

Who are your favourite writers?

J.R.R Tolkien, G.K. Chesterton, Stephen Lawhead, George Marsden, Nigel Tranter

 

Which talent would you most like to have?

To be fluently multi-lingual.

 

Where would you most like to live?

On semi-deserted island where the temperature is always between 12 and 17 degrees Celsius that has good waterways, nice bike paths, and an abundance of naturally occurring produce.

 

What is your most treasured possession?

A bible that my grandfather gave me that he in turn received from his grandfather.

 

What is your motto or favourite quote?

“Such is oft the course of deeds that move the wheels of the world: small hands do them because they must, while the eyes of the great are elsewhere.” – J.R.R. Tolkien

 

What’s one powerful piece of advice for living a fulfilling life?

Never stop learning. Especially in areas you think you have things figured out.

The Archer Library’s new hall display celebrates Black History Month.  Featured are selected resources on black history in Canada and the experiences of black Canadians.

                                      

Additional resources on this subject – including books, articles, videos, music, and children’s literature – can be found by searching in Quick Find.

You may also want to check out some of our databases which index materials on black history, culture, art, and drama.

As always, library staff and librarians are happy to help you with finding material on this, or any, topic.  Visit or contact the staff at the Help Desk for more information!