Can't get enough of Harry

The adventures you go on with Harry and the gang are far more interesting than anything that happens in the ordinary world. We cling to all things fantastical; when Harry has to fight the dragon, or must confront Lord Voldemort face-to-face. These are the things I come back for every summer. I just can’t seem to get enough of that Harry Potter action. When you lead an ordinary life extraordinary things make it fun—even if they only happen on paper. You put yourself in the book; you live your life with Harry. What I think makes Harry’s story so relatable, is that—along with the extraordinary—they also face problems with things every teenager faces—relationships, school, friendships. While not many of us are being hunted by a dark wizard, many of us have faced feeling alone, in a new place or getting into a fight with our best friend. With these things that happen, it makes it easy to see yourself as Harry going through the craziness that is being a teenager. You slip into Harry’s world and fight battles with him. It is exciting, and nerve-wreaking; which makes the adventure so great. Every time I go back to the books and read them again, I read them from new perspectives and catch things that had happened, which I never realized before. It makes the journey seem new each time. Even if it is the same books, it is always a new me that gets to experience them. ~Brittany (Editor's note---all Harry Potter books and movies are available at the Stewart Memorial Library.)

I'm packing my bags.....

It has always been a dream of mine to go to a foreign country, especially one in Europe. I would hear of people’s experiences and see the numerous photos of places I could potentially travel to, which led me to become impatient sometimes. It was not until this past spring semester (‘14) that my dream was becoming a reality. I searched for multiple exchange programs where speaking Spanish was common, and I saw two. One of the programs was in Costa Rica and the other was in Spain. I thought that my chances of going to Latin America were greater than Europe, so I chose the Spain exchange.

In the fall (‘14) I will be a student at James I University (UJI) in Castellon, Spain and living with a host family. The application process was a little long; I had to fill out an application, wait for the acceptance letter, apply for a visa, and make sure that my medical benefits would cover me while in Spain. Then, choosing a host family was also a tough process since all families sounded like wonderful people: I chose a family that lives in walking distance of UJI. My host parents are in their early 50s and have three daughters in their mid to late 20s. One of the neat things about the place where I will be staying is that I am only 2 miles from the Mediterranean Ocean!! The selection of classes I was told to choose from was wide-ranging and had to choose some from one specific field, so I picked five from the media and communications department. Hopefully my 20 years of speaking Spanish will be helpful.

I am excited to say the least, and cannot wait until August 28^th for my departure. The great thing about studying abroad in Spain is that there will be another student from Coe, whom I get along with fairly well. We have been communicating this summer composing a list of places to visit, and trying to figure out the little things before leaving (baggage, travel, etc.). It will be a fun filled experience, I cannot wait. ~Alexis (Editor's note---Alexis worked for the library this summer.  I hope this Kohawk has a wonderful experience in Spain.

Lost – A TV Series Review

Chances are, you know someone (or know someone who knows someone) who watched Lost. Most likely, you’ve heard people complain about how confusing it is, how dumb it got near the end of the show, etc etc. Despite all of the problems Lost does have, I can tell you that it is one of the most artfully made shows of our generation.
In case you don’t know, the show revolves around a group of survivors of flight 815, who crash on a mysterious island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. The island is far from ordinary and the survivors are faced with challenges extending far beyond the usual detail for one stuck on a tropical island. Flashbacks allow us to get the know characters backstory, and we become very closely acquainted with characters like Jack, a surgeon who quickly takes on a leadership role but is dealing with some deep seated family issues.
The show spans six seasons, jam packed full of new characters, new storylines and an unbelievable amount of plot twists. But what makes the show truly exceptional is the way the characters develop and change. Truly good television has the ability to show us that we are all capable of being “the bad guy” and “the good guy” sometimes at the same time. Lost displays the complexities of human nature, wrapped up with some very complex timey-wimey stuff and a lot of breaking the laws of physics. Also, it’s super addicting. Super, duper addicting. If your curiosity is getting the best of you and you’re dying to watch, you’re in luck- the library owns all six seasons! Good luck and happy watching! Whitni S.

Remembering VHS

Many of the students at Coe seem to forget about our wonderful AV department. To me, this place has and always will occupy a special place in my heart. You don’t just browse through films in the AV department but rather you browse through history. Looking through the VHS tapes, personally, brings back fond childhood memories of rewinding a tape before watching it or the pure frustration of renting un-re-winded movie. To many this experience is foreign but to me, and surely many others, it takes me back to simpler times I dearly miss. Unfortunately, technology has made places like the AV Theater more obsolete, since with a click of a mouse you could find any thing you desire. However, I would like to challenge everyone to take a moment and walk through the aisles of not just film but history, before it is too late. Yafet M.

Accused--Book Review

Ever just want to sit down and get lost in a book? The Stewart Memorial Library has many books that can transport you to a different place; we have thrillers, romance, and mysteries. If you are looking for a thriller I would recommend the book Accused by Lisa Scottoline. It is a thriller about three women in the law firm, Rosato & Associates. They are given a case by a thirteen year old, Allegra Gardner; this young girl’s sister was murdered six years prior. The case at the time was solid, the man who was accused, Lonnie Stall, was seen fleeing the scene; his blood was found on the sister and her blood was on him. He also plead guilty at the trial. Open and shut, right? But there is a twist, Allegra does not believe that he is guilty and wants Rosato & Associates to reopen the case. Now the question is whether or not they should take the case; Allegra’s family is powerful and influential so taking this case would be risky. But was justice really served those 6 years ago? These three women and a thirteen-year-old will find out.

Does this book interest you? Come check it out! Located in the browsing section on the first floor of the library, the call number is PS 3569 .C725 .A65 2013. ~Ashley K.

Adventures of working at the library

When I first started working at the library last year I thought I was going to be very productive and get a lot of homework accomplished while working at the Circulation Desk. The opposite could not have been truer. Instead of working on my academics at work I learned a lot of other new things, most importantly improving my social life. When I walk into the library I always see a friendly face and that is what I love about Coe College; there is always a friend wherever I go, whether it is at the library, in the cafeteria or workout.
Working at the circulation desk there is never a dull moment, there is always someone to greet when someone walks in the door or say bye to when leaving. I am constantly learning new things about books and authors because everyone likes to share a story about their favorite book or author when checking a book out. There is always something to explore when shelving books or dusting. Sometimes when I am straightening the books on the shelves or doing inventory I pull out an interesting book just take a few minutes to read the back out of curiosity.
People not only come to the library to study and do their homework but some people come to the library to be social. I have seen many friends sit in a study room or at a study table chatting or playing card games. I have also seen people napping at a desk or sleeping on a couch. Many people bring food into the library as a snack; I have even seen Jimmy John’s and Pizza Hut being delivered here for dinner. There is always something interesting going on in the library and a great place to be! ~Taylor W.

Fault in our Stars--Book Review

Two weeks ago during my shift I was browsing the library catalog and saw that The Fault in our Stars was downstairs in the Youth section. I was quite excited because I had been on hold for it the whole four weeks of my winter break at my library back home. I had heard so many good things about the book so I started it right after my shift ended. Well now as I sit here, two weeks later, with the book finished I am saddened to say that I think it is probably one of the most overrated books I've ever read.


The book is about Hazel, a teenager living with cancer who knows that she only has a few years left at best. She has pretty much come to terms with her diagnosis and is just taking life day-to-day. At a cancer support group, she meets Augustus Waters who is another very charismatic teen cancer survivor. As you can assume, the two end up falling for each other and there is a lot of conflict about allowing themselves to get close to another person and make their lives meaningful given their short time that they have left. I've read my fair share of romance/ terminal illness books and frankly this just seemed like every other one. Other than a sub-plot about corresponding with an author who they both idolize (a storyline which in my opinion felt very unlikely, forced, and a little over the top), the plot was pretty predictable. While I liked the character of Hazel and connected with her views on life and it's meaning, I never warmed up to Augustus. And I get that he wasn't always supposed to be the most likeable character but I just never developed a strong yearning that he and Hazel were meant to be.

While I appreciated John Green's attempt to try to throw a twist on your typical cancer romance novel, I just don't think it worked for me. I'm sure a lot of my opinion on this book was influenced by the mass amount of hype that it got. I probably set my expectations way too high and expected way too much. I would like to state that it wasn't a bad book, it definitely kept my focus and I was motivated to finish it, it just wasn't very memorable. If you're into teen romance novels, there's a good chance you might like this book. As for me, I think I'm all teen romance-ed out and will be sticking with adventure/ mystery books for the forseeable future. ~Bellamy

Did Monkeys Invent the Monkey Wrench-Book Review

Ever wonder what it's like to visit an old hardware store? Ever wonder how rubber came to be or who invented the Vice Grips? Look no further than the book, Did Monkeys Invent the Monkey Wrench, by Vince Staten. This book is chalk full of witty humor along with quite an insight into the world of selling nuts and bolts. Believe me, this is not a book that will bore you to sleep. It may just keep you up in the wee hours of the night, just like the running toilet did in your home. This easy to read book is perfect for those that like tinkering with hand tools, even if you are not very successful. Even the author claims to not be a handyman, but he has a plethora of knowledge on the tools handy persons use. Pick up this book and get a glimpse into a culture that may one day be gone. Tyler G.

Hidden Nooks and Crannies of SML

While working in the library, I have come to know the building's secrets pretty well. I’ve learned that the top floor is kept at just above freezing practically year round, the Whipple sticker means that this book is brand new, and where to find the Grant Wood paintings. But what I have found most useful and interesting is the kept secret study areas found abundantly on each floor.

Working from the bottom up, the basement level holds not only a hidden space but a wonderful asset. The Archives are found down the main stairs and to the left. Here I have found not only some of the comfiest armchairs the library has to offer but an irreplaceable asset in Rob DeSpain, and his knowledge of Coe College and its past students. The next floor up contains the most abundant overlooked spaces. In the Joanne M. Pochobradsky Reading Room, located to the right of the main staircase when entering through the main doors, caters to both the groups and the individual. In this wing of the library there is both a medium-sized room for group meetings tucked behind the shelves of magazines, and a L-shaped couch positioned perfectly in front of a large window and is made complete with lamps to read by. Next time you go to the second floor seek out these other hidden study spaces, specifically the two smaller galleries found to the left and right of the Perrine Gallery. There are plenty of comfy leather armchairs, illuminating golden light to read by, and the doors can close so you can control the sound. The largest hidden secret of the library would have to be the illusive third floor. Few people realize that this top floor even exists because it can only be accessed by the side staircases. The noise level is kept at a chilling whisper and is the perfect spot if you need to hunker down, focus, and get stuff done.

So go out at explorer these mysterious niches the library has to offer and good luck with your studies! Katie K.

Brothers in Hope--Book Review

The Stewart Memorial Library is the heart of Coe College. Here at the library our staff is committed to ensuring your needs are met in a quick and appropriate manner. We accommodate majors of all sorts. For example, if you are majoring in elementary education a book you may use in helping to construct a lesson plan would be Brothers In Hope by Mary Williams . This book is about a young boy in Sudan who fled from his village, and later found other boys who had done the same. Together, the boys face numerous hardships and dangers along the way to finding a new home. Through mutual support and faith in each other, the boys were able to find a new home. The book is located in the Browsing Area on the first floor of the library. The call # is Youth Picture PZ7 W66699 Br 2005.
If you are unsure about books pertaining to your major, then don't hesitate to come by and ask, we’ll be waiting just for you! Nathan B.

Time Away

These last couple of semesters I have spent less time in the library, and more time over in Dows keeping up with art projects, as well as in Eby and the Racquet Center for track. But now every time that I am here things look different and even new. As I walk from computer to printer I see these paintings that I must have seen a hundred times and stop to re-examine them. While I am putting books back on shelves one catches my eye and I open it to see what it’s about, and catch myself reading it later that night. I have worked here for 3 and a half semesters, and am realizing how awesome it is to see all the new faces come in and ask questions, the stillness of the 11pm to 1 am shift, and excitement of finding a book that I will read(not just for class). I remember just starting this work study job thinking that this could be an awful job, but now I barely think of it as a job at all, I come to Stewart Memorial Library because I work here, but I stay because I just don’t want to leave. Gordon R.

More notes from a Circ worker...

My name is Bellamy and I’m an Elementary Education major at Coe. This is my second year working at the library and I love it. This semester I’m taking a class on children’s literature that requires me to read and bring in a selection of children’s books to class every Friday. I’ve been able to find all of my literature selections for this class from the children’s section of the Coe library. This area is located in the basement of the library and houses picture books on one side and chapter/young adult books on the other. At first I wasn’t sure if the library’s children section would have enough of a variety for all of different types of genres that I had to obtain. But now it’s halfway through the semester and week after week, I’ve been able to find great quality children’s literature books. The children’s section in the library may appear small, but there’s lots of great material!

Notes from a Circ worker.....

I am a senior nursing student and Stewart Memorial Library has been my second home for the past couple years. Whether it is studying, researching, or working I am normally here in the library. Apart of the nursing program we are expected to learn and know how to find evidence based research, I often use the library web site to help guide me. Because we are expected to know evidence based research so well I have become very comfortable with the databases we have here at Coe. I prefer to use Pub Med or CINAHL. I can normally find good sources that pertain to my topic which helps to strengthen my papers. The staff in the Reference office have helped me many of times and are always willing to help if problems or issues ever occur. ~~Allie

Book Thief

The end of September and start of October are always punctuated by Banned Book Week, which is, in short, a celebration of books that tend to be challenged by various groups because of content, word choice, characters, titles, covers, and so on. And while that could be a perfect excuse to wax poetic about Mark Twain, Voltaire, or yes, even Harry Potter, my annual celebration of Banned Books is to reread a very ironic book on that list:

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

 Why is it an ironic choice? Because The Book Thief is not only a surprisingly funny and heartfelt story about World War II Germany, it centers on books and book burning.

The New York Times described the book as “not really… ‘Harry Potter and the Holocaust.’ It just feels that way.” It’s narrated by Death, who shouldn’t be as fabulous as they are, but they’re fabulous (even if I can’t shake the image of Death being a tiny, sassy Australian woman). The main character (the titular “Book Thief” who is really named Liesel) is an adolescent girl whose life has been tinged with death, but has remained resilient, warm, kind, and sweet. The first book she steals is a manual for grave diggers, and her love of learning proves insatiable. She and her adopted family show a tiny slice of the War from the perspective of German citizens and every act of defiance her family commits feels like a victory.

It’s completely worth the read, and the film version is set to be released in early November. ~~Maisie

Editor's note--If interested, call # is PR 9169.4 Z87 B66 2006

What I did last summer.......

Over the summer I worked in the library archives developing a finding aid for part of the William Shirer Collection. Shirer, a journalist from Cedar Rapids popular for his memoirs of fascist Germany and Rise and Fall of the Third Reich, donated his entire collection of documents to the college archives near the end of his career. My job was to read through a collection of his personal correspondence from the year 1979 and create a document that summarized the collection and contained subject headings for important events and persons of note mentioned in the letters.

It was interesting to get a peek into the personal life of a famous author and journalist, as well as see the sorts of acquaintances Shirer had made throughout his life. Many of the letters Shirer received were from aspiring journalists and novelists hoping to get some advice about the writing process. Overall I enjoyed the experience, even if it did get a bit tedious sorting through his letters for the third time. ~~Eric

Harvest Festival

Time goes so fast. A special festival happens once a year for all the Chinese is Full Moon-autumn festival. At that day, the whole family members would get together to eat the moon cake and watch the full moon at night to celebrate this festival. Yesterday, a library staff named Hongbo who is from China held a small celebration party for us. She brought some moon cakes and fruits for us. We were so excited cause the moon cake was so delicious and met each other after a long break. There was so many interesting things happened during the break, we could not wait to share it with others. We ate the moon cake and waited the moon showed up. However, yesterday was raining and sky covered by the clouds, we could not see the moon. It was kind of disappointed. I was still every happy to celebrate the traditional festival out of our country. Thanks Hongbo held this small party for us. Happy full-autumn day to everyone! ~~Linzi

Take time to see the Art work in the Library

One of my favorite parts of working in the Library is the art. While walking around shelving books, or counting students, or even just sitting at the desk I see these pictures and am still amazed. This will be my second year working at the Library and I it is like the pictures are always changing and I am finding new ways to look at these works. After a long day of class and soccer it is relaxing coming to work just so I can look at the extensive amount of art this building holds, and try to interpret it from my understanding.~~~~Gordon

Advice from a Junior

Maybe high school was a breeze for you and now you think you got the whole study thing down? While study skills from high school can be extremely useful, many students have trouble their first semester getting adjusted to a college environment, specifically when it comes to studying. Here are some ways you can translate those loved and learned high school ways into college success, from the get go!

1. Take notes, and then some

Taking notes is a great way to mix what you read in the textbook with what the professor emphasized in class. Highlighting in the book (if you rented it, be sure to check if it’s okay you highlight!) and writing in the margins are also great ways to focus on what’s important. When in class, recording the lecture can be a great resource for later, like when you just need to hear exactly how a concept works.

2. Questions, questions, questions

Talking in class isn’t everyone’s favorite thing (I know it’s not mine). However, for the sake of your own understand (and GPA) don’t hesitate to ask the professor, other students, or even upperclassmen who have taken the class before you questions about the material. Form study groups with friends or people in your class and ask them questions. If you’re not a fan of talking during class, be sure to seek out your professor or drop by during office hours and ask away!

3. Figure out how you study

For some people, studying in a quiet space with no distractions is the only way to go. For others, they’ve got to have the music blasting and the door open to get any work done. I had a roommate who would study with the television on and right in front of her! Everyone’s got their own little study style. Beyond environment, figuring out techniques can be very useful as well. Talking yourself through scientific processes or using post it notes will help you stay on track.

4. YOLO won’t get you through college

Even the hardest partiers have to study sometimes. Coming to college may seem like the perfect time to chill out or go out, but managing your time effectively (or at least somewhat effectively) is going to be vital if you actually want to get your money’s worth. Remember, you’re paying a solid amount of money to be here. Save going out for the weekends and get your stuff done, and it will make that extra time even more worthwhile.
~~~~Whitni

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month

As the library main floor has stated it is National Honey month! The month of September also pays homage to something else, Hispanic heritage.

What does this have to do with the library? The library has a plethora of Hispanic authors for you to read as well as their biographies! Read authors like Sandra Cisneros, who graduated from the Iowa Writer's Workshop and was taught by Gordon Mennega himself! Read Gary Soto a poet and writer focused in Chicano youth fiction. Prefer classic? How about the ever famous Gabriel Garcia Marquez, Carlos Fuentes (I recommend The Death of Artemio Cruz), and Isabel Allende!

Not really into books? The AV department has a wide variety of Hispanic subject movies that are both in Spanish and English. There's Selena, about a great Tejana singer and the tragic result of her fame, starring Jenifer Lopez. Or try Vicky Christina Barcelona to see Penelope Cruz do her thing! For practice with Spanish watch Volver or Biutiful.

As always keep reading and stay classy, Coe College!~~~~Paulina

Productivity

The study rooms are really nice to be able to work, by yourself or with a group, without any distractions. It's also helpful because if you need a book, you're already in the library! And, my personal favorite, you don't feel like people are staring at you and silently judging you. That's always a plus. So use the study rooms! Be productive! Yay, productivity!~~~~Angela