Walker Library News

Media and Music Libraries temporarily relocate to Walker Library

2012-01-30T13:33:00.006-06:00

Did you know the...

· Media Library

· University Lab @ the LRC

· Graduate Multimedia Development Center (GMDC)

...have all temporarily relocated to Walker Library room 262?

Room 262 has:

· 31 PCs, 9 Macs and 2 printers

· Software including: Adobe CS 5.5, Amazing Slowdowner, Finale, SAS, and SPSS

· Streaming video and audio, audiobooks, educational DVDs

· 25 video viewing stations

The Howard Music Library has also relocated to the Walker Library 1st floor. On the 1st floor, the Music Librarian and media collection are located at the circulation desk; scores are near the Reference Desk.

The Music Library houses audio and video recordings, music scores, and books.

On Display in Walker Library: 100 years of debate

2012-01-30T08:23:00.007-06:00

MTSU Blue Raider Debaters have a display on the first floor of the Walker Library celebrating 100 years of MTSU debate. MTSU has a rich history of competitive debate that began with the founding of the University in 1911 and continues to excel today. Student debaters travel all over the country competing in debate competitions.

The display of awards, photographs, and other mementos highlights some of that long, rich history. Please visit the display (first floor, just past the elevators) anytime the Walker Library is open. The display remains up throughout the month of February.

If you have questions about the MTSU Debate program contact Patrick Richey at prichey@mtsu.edu or 615-898-2273, or visit http://www.mtsu.edu/debate/.

Veneratio Pro Victoria

Academic Success Series - Spring 2012

2012-01-20T12:10:00.006-06:00

How to Be a Successful MTSU Student
Sponsored by: University College & MTSU Walker Library. These one hour workshops are designed for any student who needs help or wants to learn more about the topic area. We hope these sessions will help spring into a successful semester!

How to Get Started at MTSU
January 24th at 4:30pm - Walker Library 272****Note the location change for this week!

This session will cover topics including how to navigate RaiderNet & D2L, understanding the Lottery Scholarship, and helpful tips about GPA and academic standing.

How to Use Your Time Wisely
January 31st at 4:30pm - Walker Library 248**** Note the location change!!!!

Time management is something most students struggle with on a daily basis. This session will cover techniques to help you better manage your time.

How to Study and Prepare for Tests
February 7th at 4:30pm - Walker Library 446

This session will cover tips on note taking, how to effectively study your notes as well as tips for navigating different types of tests.

How to Balance School, Work and Family Life
February 14th at 4:30pm - Walker Library 446

This session will help students develop skills and find resources that are needed to balance their personal and professional lives. This session will share information for traditional and non-traditional students.

How to Use the MTSU Library
February 21st at 4:30pm - Walker Library 446

Come find out what successful MTSU students know about the library and learn how to utilize the various resources available.

How to Give a Winning Presentation
March 13th at 4:30pm - Walker Library 446

This session will cover tips and tricks that will help students refine their presentation and public speaking skills.

How to Use Your Academic Advisor
March 20th at 4:30pm - Walker Library 446

This session will cover information on how to know who your advisor is, how to get the most out of your time with your advisor and what questions you should ask your advisor.

How to Set Goals and Stay Motivated
March 27th at 4:30pm - Walker Library 446

This session will cover information on how to reach your personal and professional goals through exciting motivational techniques. Students will learn how to stay motivated and positive despite the obstacles they may face.

How to Unwind, Relax, Chill and Still be a Successful Student
April 3rd at 4:30pm - Walker Library 446

Being a college student is stressful! Academics, jobs, friends, and family can pull you in many directions, and there never seems to be enough hours in a day to get everything done. This session will cover how stress can impact your academics and your health. Leave with some surefire strategies to help you de-stress your life.

How to Choose the Right Career for You
April 10th at 4:30pm - Walker Library 446

Having trouble choosing a major? This session will cover techniques on helping you find the right major and career field that best fits your personality and abilities.

How to Prepare for Final Exams
April 17th & April 24th at 4:30pm - Walker Library 446

This session will provide a helpful guide to students who are not sure how to study for final exams. NOTE: The same information will be covered in both sessions. Two dates are scheduled to accommodate more students.

If you have questions contact the Advising Center.

Telephone interruption on Saturday

2012-01-19T11:24:00.003-06:00

Library telephone service will be unavailable for much of Saturday. Please try our other contact methods if you need us then: http://library.mtsu.edu/help/questions.

MLK Holiday Hours

2012-01-13T16:19:00.001-06:00

Saturday, January 14: open 8 am-5 pm
Sunday, January 15: closed
Monday, January 16: closed

Regular hours resume on Tuesday.

image: Portrait of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by Betsy G. Reyneau; Donated Collections; Record Group 200; National Archives and Records Administration

Faculty and Staff: Logging in to your Library Account

2012-01-13T10:00:00.004-06:00

You may renew books and pay fines and fees through your Library Account. Normally, you can sign in with your Pipeline username and password OR your name and ID barcode.

For the time being, faculty and staff need to use the name and barcode option. Students may still use their Pipeline logins.

To find your barcode, look on the back of your MTSU ID. You library barcode is the one in the middle, beginning with 23082

Looking for room 387?

2012-01-11T12:18:00.001-06:00

Ah, yes... the elusive room 387, more difficult to find than Harry Potter's Room of Requirement. Room 387 is a classroom in the library that is utilized by many departments on campus. Its location is on the 3rd floor inside the Curriculum area, which is just off the stairs. Once inside the Curriculum area, proceed to the back left corner (you will pass the information desk and the book shelves), turn down a narrow corridor, and wish really hard for a classroom with desks and a whiteboard.

You may also find the library floor maps useful. Room 387 is labeled on the 3rd floor image.

Welcome Back!

2012-01-10T14:34:00.004-06:00

Welcome back for the spring semester. We hope you all had a restful break and are ready for some new challenges.

Don't forget, the library has many services and facilities to assist you. Here's a rundown of the highlights.

Find books, articles, and more on the library website. Come see us at the 1st floor reference desk if you have questions or need help finding something.

Building Directory

1st Floor (Group Zone)
Adaptive Technology
Circulation/Reserves
Copy Center and Vending
Interlibrary Loan
The Lounge (Popular Reading)
Periodicals
Reference Collection
Research Commons
Service Desk (Lost and Found)
Starbucks
TeamSpot (Coming Soon!)
Tech Services

2nd Floor (Group Zone)
Call Numbers 000-399
Digital Media Studio (DMS)
DMS Training Room
Group Study Rooms
Library Instruction Rooms (264A and 272)
Microtext Collection
User Services Offices
The Meeting Place in 248 (Coming Soon!)
Presentation Practice Rooms -- 248B and 262B (Coming Soon!)

3rd Floor (Quiet Zone)
Call Numbers 400-799
Curriculum Collection
Collection Management
LT&ITC
Writing Center
Group Study Rooms
Classroom 387 (in back of Curriculum)

4th Floor (Quiet Zone)
Call Numbers 800-999
Special Collections
Library Administration
Reservable Group Study Rooms
The Meeting Place in 464 (Coming Soon!)
Library Conference Room

Winter Break Hours

2011-12-19T08:33:00.004-06:00

Exams are over and holiday planning has hit frenzy mode, but we're still here!Yes, you can get your library fix Monday-Friday from 8 a.m-4:30 p.m. on the following days:
Dec 19-23
Jan 3-6
Jan 9-11

Normal hours resume Jan 12, the first day of Spring semester.

Confused? Check the library hours page.

Laptop check out suspended over winter break

2011-12-12T10:15:00.006-06:00

Laptop check out will be suspended between semesters.

The last day to check out a laptop will be Dec. 16, and the first day to start up again is Jan. 9.

On display in the Library...Holiday Reading

2011-12-06T13:31:00.006-06:00

Happy Holidays! Going home for the break? Take one of our Popular Reading books home with you. They are on display next to our tree made of old stock reports that are now available online.

Popular Reading books are the "fun books". We have the latest from the New York Times Bestseller list. You can check these books out for up to 2 weeks.

Students can check out up to 20 books for up to 4 weeks (Popular Reading Books are for 2 weeks). And you can check out books over the break as long as you are a current student.

Protect Your Stuff

2011-12-05T08:00:00.000-06:00

Caution! This time of year often brings an increase in thefts in the library. Never leave your backpack, books, or other personal belongings unattended in the library. Bad guys might steal your stuff and sell it to get money for guns, drugs, or to pay off their overdue fines.

photo credit: mag3737 on Flickr

Poster Printer in the Library!!!!

2011-12-02T08:00:00.006-06:00

The Walker Library Technology Services Desk (LTS) now has available a large format printer that students and faculty can use to print poster size. Come to the LTS desk on the 1st floor and check it out.

Students, faculty, and staff will need a valid MTSU ID.

Files should be brought to the LTS Desk on a USB drive.

Only JPEG, TIFF, PDF, PPT, or Word files are accepted.

Posters will be printed within one (1) hour.

Charges will be added to your My Library Account and the fee can be paid online.

Prices:
$7 per linear foot
$14 for a 2x3 standard poster
$35 for a 3x5 poster

For more info contact the Library Technology Services Desk at 615-898-5666.

Time and Sanity Saving Tips in the Library

2011-12-01T08:00:00.001-06:00

The crazy making time known as exams is upon us and we at the Walker Library want to help keep you sane and happy. Here are two tips that should help.

1. Computer Availability Maps- Have you noticed a similarity between trying to find a parking space on campus and trying to find a computer in the library? You circle and circle and pray and swear until you finally find an opening, and when you do, you hope not to have a head on collision or get into an altercation with another seeker. We can't do anything about parking, unfortunately, but now you can determine where the open computers are before you start roaming.

Simply point your smartphone or other mobile device to http://libstats.mtsu.edu:8080/ to see a listing of the computer labs in the library and the available numbers of machines. You can also click on a map of the lab to see exactly where the open computers are.

2. Express Printing. Stop competing with everyone else trolling for computers (see above). Save yourself the shoe leather and go straight to the express printing station located on the first floor in the atrium. Just make sure your document is on a jump drive. Plug it in and print. Then leave. Easy as pie. One note- all documents are two sided.

image from Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division, Washington, D.C. 20540 USA, hdl.loc.gov/loc.pnp/pp.print

Extended Hours for Exams Week

2011-11-29T08:13:00.000-06:00

Starting this Sunday the Walker Library will be open extended hours during exams. We will be open til 1a.m. Sunday - Thursday. Please see our hours page for more info.

photo used with permission from the William and Mary Law School at the Marshall-Wythe School of law. Flickr download, april 20, 2011. http://www.flickr.com/photos/wolflawlibrary/2417195782/

Thanksgiving Hours

2011-11-28T08:53:00.000-06:00

Library Hours Nov 23-27

Wed 11/23 - 7:30am to 10:00pm
Thur 11/24 - closed
Fri 11/25 - closed
Sat 11/26 - closed
Sun 11/27 - 1:00pm to midnight

*see complete library hours on our website

photo credit: "Freedom from Want", Norman Rockwell. Saturday Evening Post, 1943

Books, books, and more books!

2011-11-17T16:25:00.004-06:00

· The Walker Library now has over ONE MILLION books!

· Undergrads can check out 20 books, graduate & honors students can check out 50 books, all for up to 4 weeks.

You can check out and return books at the Circulation Desk.

· We have fun books too! The Popular Reading collection (in the “Lounge”—1st flr.) has the latest from the New York Times Bestseller list. You can check these books out for up to 2 weeks.

Currently enrolled students may check out books over the winter break! This extension of check out privileges also applies to current adjunct faculty. Patrons wishing to check out materials over the break will simply need to show their valid MTSU ID at checkout.

· Go to library.mtsu.edu and click on My Library Account where you can:

* See your account balance
* Pay your fines- All fines must be paid online now. We don' t take cash at the library.
* See the items you checked out
* See when items are due
* Search for materials
* IM a librarian for help

Just login w/ your Pipeline User Name & password.

100 years, 1 million library volumes for MTSU

2011-11-15T08:49:00.005-06:00

The Walker Library has reached an historic milestone with the acquisition of its one-millionth volume -- the first book published in Tennessee -- in MTSU’s 100th year.

Laws of the State of Tennessee was printed in Knoxville in 1803 by George Roulstone, a native Bostonian who moved his printing press to Tennessee at the urging of William Blount. Blount was governor of the territory south of the Ohio River before Tennessee’s admission to the Union in 1796.

Roulstone initially set up the first printing press in Rogersville, in what would become Tennessee, and began printing the Knoxville Gazette newspaper as well as legal and theological works in 1791.

Laws of the State of Tennessee was printed on “low-quality handmade paper,” according to Dr. Alan Boehm, director of special collections for the library, and was bound with what appears to be pigskin stretched over pressed sheets of paper to form the cover.

Since the title page is not set off from the table of contents and there is little space separating topics on the pages, Boehm concludes that Roulstone “couldn’t afford to waste paper, apparently.”

The Early Tennessee Imprints collection in the Walker Library’s Special Collections includes some 200 books and other print materials produced in Tennessee between 1791 and 1866, the first year after the Civil War.

“Every book is a cultural artifact, and its physical and material properties tell you something about literacy and reading and writing and authorship in that book’s time,” says Boehm.

Celebrating Veterans Day

2011-11-11T08:40:00.000-06:00

Veterans Day is the day set aside to thank and honor all those who served honorably in the military - in wartime or peacetime. There are over 25 million veterans living in the United States, and over 500,000 in Tennessee.

President Woodrow Wilson created the holiday in 1919 on the first anniversary of the 1918 armistice that ended World War I. It was known as Armistice Day. The day was to be marked with a two minute silence at 11:00 am followed by parades and celebrations.

In 1921 Congress passed legislation to establish the the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. It was opened with the burial of an unknown soldier from World War I in the Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. on Armistice Day.

November 11 became an official national holiday in the United States in 1938. In 1954 the name was changed to Veterans Day to honor those who had served in all U.S. wars. Ceremonies are held each year at the Tomb of the Unknowns, and floral tributes are placed on the graves of service men and women and at memorials throughout the country. Naturalization ceremonies have come to be an important part of the day’s activities.

Here are a list of resources in the library if you would like to learn more :
http://bit.ly/veteransdaybooks

Some website links of interest (and our sources for this post)

http://www.va.gov/

http://www.history.army.mil/html/reference/holidays/vetsday/vetshist.html

http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/627065/Veterans-Day

http://www.loc.gov/vets/thewar.html

http://www.tennesseeanytime.org/gov/veterans/

http://tn.gov/veteran/

Life magazine Veterans Day photo Album and Time Magazine photo essay

Daylight Saving Time Ends on Sunday! Change your clocks!

2011-11-04T11:36:00.000-05:00

Daylight Saving Time ends at 2 a.m. on Sunday, November 6. Don't forget to set your clocks back an hour so you don't wake up any earlier than absolutely necessary.

LRC collections move to Library in December

2011-11-02T15:40:00.005-05:00

The Media Library, the Music Library, the LRC University Computer Lab, and the Graduate Multimedia Development Center (GMDC), currently located in LRC 101, will move temporarily to Walker Library at the end of final exams. Both libraries, the University Computer Lab, the GMDC, and the LRC 101B computer classroom will be open to faculty and students in their normal LRC locations through 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 15.

The LRC University Computer Lab and GMDC, when re-opened in Walker Library Room 262, will continue to provide the discipline specific and specialized software that students and faculty are accustomed to using in the labs' current LRC locations. In particular, Adobe Creative Suite 5, SPSS, SAS, Finale, and other frequently used packages will continue to be available in Walker Library 262.

Because the Media Library collection will be located separately from Room 262 in Walker Library, accessing requested items will require more time than usual. Therefore, faculty and graduate students are strongly encouraged to contact one of the Media Library staff ( http://frank.mtsu.edu/~imr/staff.html ) as early in each semester as possible to reserve media to be checked out and to be assigned for student viewing. Patrons checking out audio books are also strongly encouraged to reserve them at least 24 hours prior to picking them up.

Our temporary locations are
Media Library - Walker Library Room 262
LRC University computer lab and GMDC - Walker Library Room 262
Music Library - Walker Library, first floor: Music Librarian and media collection at the circulation desk; scores in the Reference Collection room.

Operating hours for the Media Library, LRC University computer lab, and GMDC beginning Friday, December 16, are:
Friday, December 16: closed to patrons, staff available via email and phone
Saturday - Sunday, December 17-18: closed
Monday - Friday, December 19 - 23: closed to patrons, staff available via email and phone
Saturday - Monday, December 24 - January 2: closed
Tuesday - Friday, January 3 - 6: open 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Saturday - Sunday, January 7 - 8: closed
Monday - Wednesday, January 9 - 11: open 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Thursday, January 12: resume regular hours ( http://frank.mtsu.edu/~imr/hours.html )
Sunday - Monday, January 15 - 16: closed
Tuesday, January 17: resume regular hours ( http://frank.mtsu.edu/~imr/hours.html )

Operating hours for the Music Library beginning Friday, December 16, are
Friday, December 16: closed to patrons, staff available via email and phone
beginning Saturday, December 17: open/closed according to Walker Library's operating hours ( http://library.mtsu.edu/hours.php )

If you have any questions about our temporary relocation, please contact one of these staff members:

Media Library - Gail Fedak, gfedak@mtsu.edu, 2899
Music Library - Sarah Brown, sbrown@mtsu.edu, 2751
LRC University computer lab and GMDC - Anthony Tate, atate@mtsu.edu, 8204

ARTstor online training

2011-11-02T11:27:00.001-05:00

Do you want to get started using advanced ARTstor features and create custom collections for your classes? The Walker Library is offering a one hour webinar, hosted by an ARTstor trainer, this Friday, 11/4 at 2:00 pm.

The trainer will provide an introduction to ARTstor and then cover advanced features and instructor-level tools.

The ARTstor database contains digital collections from over 130 museum and cultural heritage centers including the J. Paul Getty Museum, the American Folk Art Museum, the The Art Institute of Chicago, and the The British Library, to name a few. It includes 1.3+ million images in the arts, architecture, humanities, and sciences.

ARTstor is a non-profit online digital image library designed to serve educational and scholarly communities. ARTstor provides tools and software to search, present, and share digital images both online and offline for research and pedagogical purposes.

Instructors can create folders and add descriptions and upload files to share with students. For instructor level access, contact mepozzeb@mtsu.edu.

To register:

Just click on the link and have individuals register for a seat:

https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/593261152

Please also take note of the following system requirements:

PC-based attendees

Required: Windows® 7, Vista, XP or 2003 Server

Macintosh®-based attendees

Required: Mac OS® X 10.5 or newer

Tennessean & DNJ archives

2011-10-26T12:49:00.002-05:00

Yesterday’s news: Search local news archives

We all like to know what’s going on in our community. We lost coverage to our local papers due to an exclusive distribution arrangement by Gannett News. Now they’re back! The Walker Library and the Tennessee Electronic Library have made it possible for you to search the archives of the Daily News Journal (DNJ) and the Tennessean. The DNJ is available from 1999-present and the Tennessean is available from 2002-present.

These resources are available on the Walker Library site at library.mtsu.edu on following pages: Databases A-Z, Newspapers, and Current Events & Issues.

If you need help with these or any other resources click here to talk to a Librarian!

Mobile Library Website

2011-10-14T11:13:00.005-05:00

Now you can get easier access to the library website using your smart phone.

Our mobile site is located at http://library.mtsu.edu/m

Get Library Hours

Look up a book

Find Articles

Text, Call or Email a Librarian

Find an open computer in the library

Renew your books or pay fines

Now more than ever, you don't have to be at the library to use the library.

Let us know what you think of our mobile site. Please take a short survey.

The mobile site has been tested on an iPhone, Android, and Blackberry phone in Safari and Opera Mini browsers.

SciFinder Scholar now has links to full-text holdings

2011-10-13T09:48:00.018-05:00

Use the Full Text link in SciFinder Scholar to find the full text online, in the library, or through interlibrary loan. Make sure your browser has pop-ups enabled for cas.org.

When you find an article in SciFinder Scholar, click the 'Full Text' link:

The article may open up in another database, like ScienceDirect:

Or you may see online or in-print retrieval options:

If it's not available, use the interlibrary loan link to request it from another library:

Find more sources on the Chemistry Information Sources page. Find help with your research on the Guides and Help page.

Fall Break Hours

2011-10-11T07:34:00.000-05:00

MTSU Walker Library Fall Break Hours*

Sat, Oct 15 - closed
Sun, Oct 16 - closed
Mon, Oct 17 - 8am to 4:30pm
Tues, Oct 18 - 8am to midnight

Enjoy your Fall Break!

*see complete library hours on our website
-------------------
photo credit: homeintennessee on Flickr

Marie Curie Comes to Walker Library

2011-10-03T13:04:00.006-05:00

History speaks on October 5^th at 6:30 in the library. Marie Curie comes alive to tell her story on the 100^th anniversary of her receiving the Nobel Prize for Chemistry in 1911. She was also the first person to win in two different categories, Physics and Chemistry. A reception will follow the interview with Marie Curie in Room 475 in the library.

The exhibit and interview will take place in the reading area on the first floor of the library. The exhibit will include posters of famous women scientists and books about women in science. A contest to correctly identify famous women in science, math, engineering and technology will run until October 31^st. The winning entry will win a Kindle.

Marie Curie 1903/1911 Nobel Prize. Photography. Encyclopædia Britannica Image Quest. Web. 3 Oct 2011. http://quest.eb.com/media/image.htm?mediaId=139_1992258

SciFinder Scholar Training

2011-09-28T10:03:00.010-05:00

References, substances, reactions, oh my!

SciFinder Scholar has moved online, and a lot has changed. Peter Blasi, from Chemical Abstracts Service, will be here October 12 at 12:30 in Library 264A to provide training on this important resource for research in Chemistry. Mr. Balsi will show you how to get the most out of your research.

An RSVP is required. Please RSVP at the Library web site.

Please also complete a SciFinder registration if you plan to attend.

How to Use the MTSU Library- Academic Success Series

2011-09-23T13:57:00.004-05:00

Tuesday, October 4th at 4:30pm - Walker Library 272

Come play BINGO and learn what successful MTSU students know about the library.

Topics covered include:

Time-saving online research sites and citation tools
Getting the most out of Google Scholar
Tips for finding an open computer in the library
Library tools and services

Future Academic Success Series cover

Thinking critically
How to give a winning presentation (NOT in the C. Sheen way, we hope)
How to prepare for final exams

All sessions meet in the Library. Click here for more details.

Bingo Cards. Photography. Encyclopædia Britannica Image Quest. Web. 23 Sep 2011. http://quest.eb.com/media/image.htm?mediaId=132_1251692

Banned Books Week

2011-09-23T09:56:00.007-05:00

Celebrate YOUR freedom to read during Banned Books Week, September 24−October 1, 2011

You can check out books from our cart of banned and challenged books in the Walker library atrium.

Banned Books Week is an annual event celebrating the freedom to read and the importance of the First Amendment. Held during the last week of September, Banned Books Week highlights the benefits of free and open access to information while drawing attention to the harms of censorship by spotlighting actual or attempted bannings of books across the United States.

The American Library Association has compiled information about some of the most challenged books from last year.

For more information, visit http://www.ala.org/bbooks/

New Resources for Digital Images Available

2011-09-21T14:34:00.007-05:00

We have new resources that give you access to millions of images to enhance your research and class projects.

ARTstor Digital Library:

1.3+ million images in the arts, architecture, humanities, and sciences

Multi-disciplinary Subject Guides

ARTstor Mobile for iPad, iPhone, and iTouch

New collections monthly from 200+ contributors

Instructors can create folders and add descriptions to share with students. For instructor level access, contact mepozzeb@mtsu.edu.

Image Quest:

Image Quest is the best and broadest collection of proprietary educational imagery. It includes images from 43 of the best collections: Corbis, Dorling Kindersley Images, Getty Images, the National Portrait Gallery of London, the National Geographic Society, Oxford Scientific and more!

Currently Over 2,000,000 Images with plans to add many more

Instructors can incorporate the images in their classes and research

Students can use the site for homework assignments and course projects

All images are rights-cleared for non-commercial, educational use!

Images can be downloaded, printed, saved OR emailed as jpegs or gifs

Berg Fashion Library:

The authority on world dress, the Berg Fashion Library is a unique online portal which offers fully cross-searchable access to an expanding range of Berg content collections including the Berg Encyclopedia of World Dress and Fashion online, e-books, reference works, images, and much more.

Students and scholars in disciplines as diverse as anthropology, art history, history, sociology, geography, folklore, museum studies, theatre, and cultural studies as well as fashion and textiles will find the Berg Fashion Library a treasury of fascinating insights into people and cultures all over the world.

These resources are accessible through our website at library.mtsu.edu,click on Databases A-Z.

Proxy Borrowing for Faculty

2011-09-20T08:49:00.001-05:00

Each semester, we get many requests about proxy borrowing from MTSU faculty. They want to send over their ID with their graduate student assistant in hopes that we can check out materials onto their (the faculty member's) card. While we definitely don't want to inconvenience anyone wanting to check out library materials, it is for the faculty's protection that we have them complete the proxy borrowing form first.

Here are the complete details, as posted on our website. (The form is located under Library Forms as well as in this information section for faculty under Circulation.)

MTSU faculty and administrators may designate a graduate assistant, student worker or staff member to act as a Proxy Borrower. The designated individual is able to borrow books and other materials for the faculty member on the faculty account.
• To designate a proxy borrower, the faculty member should complete and sign the faculty portion of the Proxy Student Borrowing Form.
• The student who will act as the proxy should complete their portion of the form and bring the form, their own student ID and the faculty ID to the Circulation Desk to establish the account. After that, only the student’s ID will be needed to borrow materials.
• A processing time of 24-48 hours is required before materials can be borrowed utilizing the student’s ID.
• Student proxies borrow on behalf of the faculty member. The faculty member is responsible for all materials borrowed.

What is that thing on the Centennial Cake?

2011-09-20T08:33:00.004-05:00

The Centennial Cake in the atrium is topped with a coconut shell fashioned into a head. Ever wonder what it has to do with MTSU? Thanks to Mayo Taylor, intrepid librarian, we have the answer.
That’s Harvey. Back in the 1950s there was a fierce football rivalry between MTSU and Tennessee Tech. The competition garnered the interest of Fred Harvey of Harvey’s Department Store, who awarded an Alaskan totem pole to be used as a rotating game prize. The plan was for the winner of the annual clash between the football teams to house the prize for the following year but it became a great sport for the other school to steal the totem pole, usually in the week leading up to the next big game. MTSU always called the totem pole Harvey but at Tennessee Tech it was knows as the Shinny-Ninny because of the antics of a school mascot who liked to feign comic fits when he had control of the pole.

This and other odd trivia can be found by searching through the online editions of Midlander that are included in the MTSU Memory digital collection.

Science & Spirituality Brown Bag

2011-09-12T13:52:00.000-05:00

4th Annual MTSU Science & Spirituality Forum 2011: What Can The Dying Teach The Living?

First Brown Bag lunch discussion - Setting the Stage
Thursday, September 15
11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Room 475, Walker Library
Bring your own lunch (brown bag optional)

Scott Owings, Chaplain, Guardian Hospice, Franklin, Tennessee
Jackie Clevenger, Chaplain, Middle Tennessee Medical Center, Murfreesboro

The MTSU Science & Spirituality Forum hosts brown bag lunch discussions on a topic that leads up to a symposium speaker. This year’s theme is What Can The Dying Teach The Living? Join us for the first of several brown bags this semester.

For more information on the forum visit: http://library.mtsu.edu/spirituality/aboutus.php

Constitution Week Activities

2011-09-09T12:11:00.000-05:00

MTSU Centennial Constitution Week 2011

Constitutional Responsibility and Civil Society

September 11-20, 2011

Click here for a list of events.

What is Constitution Day?

The signing of the U.S. Constitution on September 17, 1787, by the Founding Fathers is one of the most important and influential events in American history, establishing the many rights and freedoms “We the People” enjoy today.

September 17, Constitution Day is celebrated each year all over the country. MTSU is celebrating Constitution Week, September 11 - 17, 2011 with many activities all over campus. These events are sponsored by: The American Democracy Project, Distinguished Lecture Committee, James E. Walker Library, MTSU Public History Program, Center for Student Involvement and Leadership, John Seigenthaler Chair of Excellence in First Amendment Studies.

John Adams Exhibit Activities THIS WEEK

2011-09-07T14:50:00.014-05:00

The Walker Library is one of only 20 libraries in the country picked to host John Adams: Unbound, a traveling exhibit funded by an NEH grant. John Adams Unbound explores Adams’ personal library – a collection of 3,500 books willed by Adams to the people of Massachusetts and deposited in the Boston Public Library in 1894.

This remarkable collection of books provides first-hand insight into how John Adams shaped American history and how he was shaped through his lifelong dedication to reading and books. Through photo-reproductions of these annotated volumes, viewers will witness one of our founding fathers wrestling with intellectual and political ideas at every stage in his long life – as a boy, university student, Boston lawyer, revolutionary, diplomat, President and citizen of the early American republic.

Exhibition Dates August 17 through September 30, 2011

Location Walker Library, 1st floor

Events

**Opening reception
Thursday, August 25th at 10:30 a.m.

1st floor just past the elevators
Come see this exhibit before the students move back to campus.

**Speakers Panel
Tuesday, September 13th at 11:20 a.m.
1st floor just past the elevators
The Legacy of John Adams: a panel of MTSU experts speak on John Adams and his lasting influence.

**Community Event
Wednesday, September 14th at 1:00 p.m.
1st floor just past the elevators
Elementary school kids get to meet our nation's second president!
SORRY, THIS ONE IS ALREADY FULL!

**Print on the replica 18th century Printing Press
Thursday, September 15 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Walker Library Portico (in front of the Library, by the columns)
Print your own copy of the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution on the University’s replica 18th-century printing press

This is Constitution Week, check out all the events going on on campus.

New Electronic Resources!

2011-09-06T10:34:00.001-05:00

The Walker Library is pleased to announce the acquisition of eight amazing new resources to enhance your research and class projects. These electronic resources (accessible through our website) include millions of images, primary documents on slavery and Jewish life, the Nixon papers, historical and ethnographic videos and much, much more! Look for specific resource details in the coming weeks.

Images sources:
· ARTStor - 1.3+ million images in the arts, architecture, humanities, and sciences.
· Image Quest – 2+ million images, rights-cleared for non-commercial, educational use.
· Berg Fashion Library – Images and reference works on fashion and the history of dress.

Primary Sources from Adam Matthew Digital:
· Medieval Travel Writing - European travel writing from the later medieval period.
· Medieval Family Life - medieval correspondence and ephemera
· China: Trade, Politics and Culture, 1793-1980 - Manuscripts providing insights into changes in China.
· The Nixon Years, 1969-1974 - Nixon’s handling of numerous crises from a British, European and Commonwealth perspective.
· Victorian Popular Culture - Popular entertainment in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.
· The American West - original manuscripts, maps, ephemeral material and rare printed sources on western Americana.
· Everyday Life & Women, c1800-1920 - Primary source material from the Sallie Bingham Center for Women’s History, Duke University and The New York Public Library.
· Slavery, Abolition, and Social Justice - Documents from archives and libraries across the Atlantic world.
· Jewish Life in America - Original manuscript collections from the American Jewish Historical Society in New York.
· The Grand Tour - Accounts of the English abroad, c1550-1850
· Perdita Manuscripts: Women Writers, 1500-1700 - Manuscripts written or compiled by women in the British Isles

Multimedia:
· Ethnographic Video online – Works of documentary filmmakers of the 20th century, including interviews, raw footage, field notes, study guides, and more.
· World History in Video - documentaries exploring human history from the earliest civilizations to the late twentieth century

Journals and Citation Indexes:
· Web of Science – Arts and Humanities index – search for articles track citations for over 2,300 of the leading arts and humanities journals.
News
· Tennessean – Tennessee’s newspaper of record. Now available from 2002-present

To access these resources go to library.mtsu.edu, click on Find Resources and then scroll down to Databases A-Z. Need help getting started with finding information? Go to the Reference Desk on the 1st floor of the Library or click here to get help from a Librarian.

GRE workshop and GRE practice test

2011-09-02T11:18:00.006-05:00

The College of Graduate Studies and the University Honors College are offering a free GRE workshop on Wednesday, September 7, from 4:00-5:30 pm, in Honors Room 106 for MTSU students. No pre-registration is required.

This workshop will provide an introduction to the GRE including the latest information on the Analytical Writing Measure, the Verbal Measure, and the Quantitative Measure. Learn how the questions are constructed and how the test is scored. Take sample test questions and get valuable hints that will assist you on this important graduate school admission test.

For more information, students should call 898-2840 or 615-898-2152.

For even more help with the GRE and other standardized tests check out Walker Library's Learning Express Library database. This database can help you prepare for the GRE and other standardized tests such as the PRAXIS, GMAT, LSAT, and MCAT. Browse through the categories or do a quick search by test name to find sample tests. You can also take licensing, certification, and aptitude practice tests for fields such as Nursing, Emergency Medical Services, Law Enforcement, Military, and Real Estate, to name few. You must complete a free registration to save your results. This resource is available for free to all Tennesseans through the Tennessee Electronic Library, so tell a friend!

Learning Express is easy to find. From the library home page click on databases a-z and scroll to L for Learning Express.

Welcome to Walker Library

2011-08-29T19:28:00.000-05:00

Here is some basic information to help you get started this Fall. At the James E. Walker Library, you are sure to find exactly what you need.

The Library can assist you with:

· Finding information
· Starting your research
· Navigating our website
· Locating books, articles, and other sources

For Quick Help you can:
· IM / Chat with a Librarian
· EMAIL us
· Text us at 265010
· Call 898-2817
· Visit the Reference Desk (1st flr)
Go to: library.mtsu.edu/help or look for the chat box on the left of each page of the website to get help from a Librarian.

Cool features of the Walker Library
· Over 300 computers & dozens of scanners
· Free printing
· Nearly a million books/magazines
· Check out 20 books for up to 4 wks
· University Writing Center
· Digital Media Studio w/ macs & crazy software
· Group study rooms (some reserveable)
· Wireless internet
· Express Printing Stations
· Laptops for checkout
· Quiet Zones on 3rd & 4th floors
· Starbucks

· We have "fun" books, too!

Additional Library information:
Library Hours
Library Jobs
Get started finding information for your project or paper.
Common Questions for students.
Other Libraries and Archives on campus.
Looking for a textbook?

As a reminder- we are now a smoke free campus. Please, no smoking outside the library door.

Looking for Room 387?

2011-08-28T08:00:00.003-05:00

You may also find the library floor maps useful. Room 387 is labeled on the 3rd floor image.

Printing in the Library

2011-08-26T12:50:00.003-05:00

Students, faculty and staff may print in the library by logging on to a computer with their Pipeline username and password.

When you print from a computer in the library, you must release it from the print system before you can retrieve it.

1. Select print on your computer.

2. Look at the name taped to the computer monitor and proceed to the closest print station.

3. Find your computer name on the screen at the print station and lightly tap it. If your computer name is toward the end of the alphabet (e.g., Twain or Wilde) you may need to select the Next button at the bottom of the screen to find it.

4. Tap the print jobs that you wish to print. A check mark should appear next to them.

5. Press Print at the bottom right side of the screen. Press Confirm Printing at the bottom right side of the screen.

Please note that the printers automatically delete jobs of 50 pages or more. If you must print a document this large, you will need to break it up into two or more jobs of 49 pages or less.

At this time, printing is "free" in the library. Free printing is supported primarily by the Technology Access Fees students pay.

Please print wisely.

For more on this story, please read the post Is printing really FREE?

If you just need to quickly print something, you can use our express printing station.
It is on the right as you enter the library and requires a USB drive.

If you need to find an open computer check the availability map on the website.

Library Website Redesign

2011-08-22T15:02:00.003-05:00

The library website now has a new look! Our goal was to look more like the rest of the university pages AND to make it easier for you to find the library resources that you need. Many of the links will stay the same as before, but a few have changed, and much of the page content is organized differently. If you have trouble finding something you used a lot, try the site search on the library homepage.

We hope you like the changes that we have made. If you have any comments or suggestions, we'd love to hear them. Please take our very short survey.

August Intersession Hours

2011-08-11T13:09:00.002-05:00

A reminder about library hours during the August recess. Our hours will be shortened during the break.

Hours for August 15-26

M-F: 8-4:30
Sat-Sun: closed

Regular hours resume Saturday, August 27.

For additional hours information, see http://library.mtsu.edu/information/hours.php.

John Adams Exhibit is here!

2011-08-08T15:16:00.014-05:00

The Walker Library is one of only 20 libraries in the country picked to host John Adams: Unbound, a traveling exhibit funded by an NEH grant. John Adams Unbound explores Adams’ personal library – a collection of 3,500 books willed by Adams to the people of Massachusetts and deposited in the Boston Public Library in 1894. This remarkable collection of books provides first-hand insight into how John Adams shaped American history and how he was shaped through his lifelong dedication to reading and books.

Through photo-reproductions of these annotated volumes, viewers will witness one of our founding fathers wrestling with intellectual and political ideas at every stage in his long life – as a boy, university student, Boston lawyer, revolutionary, diplomat, President and citizen of the early American republic.

Exhibition Dates
August 17 through September 30, 2011

Location
Walker Library, 1st floor

Events
Opening reception -- Thursday, August 25th at 10:30 a.m. Come see this exhibit before the students move back to campus.

Speakers Panel -- Tuesday, September 13th at 11:20 a.m. The Legacy of John Adams: a panel of MTSU experts speak on John Adams and his lasting influence.

Community Event -- Wednesday, September 14th at 1:00 p.m. Elementary school kids get to meet our nation's second president! SORRY, THIS ONE IS ALREADY FULL!

Easily find and download thousands of ebooks

2011-08-05T11:00:00.000-05:00

You knew that we had tons of ebooks, right? Well now you can access a new resource- Ebsco eBook collection (formely NetLibrary)- a resource with thousands of downloadable electronic book on hundreds of subjects. Yes, you can download them to read later on your laptop,tablet iPad, Nook, Kindle, whatever! Ebooks are great for research and not just because you don't have to carry them around campus only to lose them under your bed. Ebooks have easy searching and expanded hyperlinked indexes so you can find the chapter, paragraph or page you need quickly. Often there will be more current books in electronic format than in print.

Here is how you access this gold mine of a collection. On the library main page click, research gateway, find books, then select the ebook collections. Or click here. A nifty search bar makes it simple to search for books

Cake in the Library!!!!

2011-08-04T12:32:00.006-05:00

Check out this cake on display now in the atrium of the Walker Library. It is over 6 feet tall and almost 6 feet long. The cake will be featured in the special Centennial edition of MTSU Magazine coming out in August.

This sculpture was created by Business alum Jay Qualls (of Maples Wedding Cakes & TLC's Cake Boss: The Next Great Baker). The cake is large and quite striking. There are objects located all over the cake that were created to represent many of the things that have made MTSU great in its first 100 years. I encourage you all to take a look!

Journal Citation Reports webinars

2011-08-02T09:02:00.002-05:00

What is journal impact factor and how can you identify the most important journals in the sciences and social sciences? Learn the answers to both questions by attending one of these online training sessions for Journal Citation Reports.
"2010 Journal Citation Reports - Available NowJournal Citation Reports® offers a systematic, objective means to critically evaluate the world's leading journals, with quantifiable, statistical information based on citation data. By compiling articles' cited references, JCR Web helps to measure research influence and impact at the journal and category levels, and shows the relationship between citing and cited journals. Available in Science and Social Sciences editions." (Thomson Reuters web site)
Learn how to identify the most appropriate, influential journals in which to publish and find the current reading list in your field.
Sign up for one of four upcoming training sessions offered on the Thomson Reuters web site.

Centennial Exhibit in Special Collections

2011-08-01T11:17:00.000-05:00

A new exhibit honoring the Centennial anniversary of Middle Tennessee State University is now open in the Special Collections area of the Walker Library at MTSU.

Drawing on its holdings of MTSU materials, Special Collections is presenting an exhibit of photographs, scrapbooks, and memorabilia as well as University and student publications that represent the period of Middle Tennessee State University from its founding in 1911 to approximately 1925.

On display in "The Early Years at MTSU" are early University pennants, commencement invitations, meal tickets, class photographs, literary society records, and university bulletins from the time when MTSU was official known as Middle Tennessee State Normal School.

This exhibit is free and open to the public. Special Collections, open from 8:30 - 4:30 weekdays, is on the 4th floor of the James E. Walker Library.

New Chairs for Study Rooms

2011-08-01T10:55:00.002-05:00

The library is replacing damaged and worn computer chairs in the building on Tuesday. Today (Monday) we are removing all of the rolling chairs from our group studies. They will be replaced with more almost 300 new chairs on Tuesday. We will then discard the most damaged chairs in the building and redistribute chairs from the group studies that are less damaged.

We apologize for any inconvenience this causes to users of group studies today and tomorrow.

Windows 7 Upgrade

2011-07-22T08:27:00.004-05:00

The library computers have been upgraded to the Windows 7 operating system. While it's supposed to be really wonderful, change is often difficult, confusing, and infuriating for a while, especially when Microsoft is involved. So if you experience any of these emotions while working on library computers, feel free to ask for help from a lab assistant, the Computer Support desk, or anyone with a name badge who looks slightly less confused than you feel.

Also, you might want to peruse the Windows 7 help site: http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/help.

Professional Writing Workshop

2011-07-12T11:14:00.011-05:00

Professional Writing Workshop

Saturday, July 23rd

10:00 am-1:00 pm

Writing Center, located in the James E. Walker library, room 362

MTSU s Margaret H. Ordoubadian University Writing Center will be hosting a Professional Writing Workshop for MTSU students, alumni, and the local community. Participants will have the chance to work with Writing Assistants to workshop resumes, CVs, statements of purpose, and scholarship essays and learn about test preparation (for the GRE, GMAT, MCAT, and Praxis, among others), interview strategies, and email use and etiquette.

If you have questions, please contact Jenny Rowan at 615-494-8932 or jrowan@mtsu.edu. The workshop is free, and we hope you can join us!

MTSU becomes a Tobacco Free campus

2011-06-16T09:11:00.006-05:00

Effective July 1, MTSU will be a tobacco free campus. The old policy previously allowed smoking 20 feet away from doorways, windows, ventilation systems, walkways and gates.The new policy will restrict the use of all forms of tobacco products including, but not limited to, cigarettes, pipes, cigars, chewing tobacco and snuff, as well as smokeless electronic cigarettes and other similar devices.

This means that you cannot bring chewing tobacco or snuff into the library. It also means library patrons will be able to enter the library without passing through a smokey corridor.Smokers can smoke in their private vehicles. You can read the complete policy here: http://www.mtsu.edu/policies/pdfs/CampusSmokingPolicy.pdf. For more resources please visit the MTSU Health Promotion website http://www.mtsu.edu/healthpro/tobacco.shtml.

Cigarette Butt. Photography. Encyclopædia Britannica Image Quest. Web. 16 Jun 2011.

SciFinder Scholar Access: Important Changes

2011-06-01T12:20:00.004-05:00

There are important changes on the way for SciFinder Scholar. Currently we have the option of using the SciFinder client-based system and also the web version.

SciFinder Scholar will cease support and access for the client (desktop) version on June 30, 2011. The software on personal computers should be removed before June 30th. All user seats will then be allocated to the web version and the desktop version of SciFinder Scholar will no longer be available.

You must register an account to use the web version. Create an account using your MTSU e-mail address at http://library.mtsu.edu/libdata/page.phtml?page_id=77. A support and training website is also available at that page.

If faculty members or departments are interested in scheduling a trainer, please contact Suzanne Mangrum, smangrum@mtsu.edu.

Memorial Day Hours

2011-05-27T16:08:00.003-05:00

The library will be open regular hours this Saturday and Sunday. We will be closed Monday, May 30 in honor of Memorial Day. See you bright and early when we reopen at 7:30am Tuesday!

Photo by eddiecoyote. Licensed under Creative Commons.

More than you wanted to know about cicadas

2011-05-24T10:59:00.002-05:00

If you're feeling a little crazy because of the cicada swarms, you probably won't take pleasure in knowing that Tennessee is one of the few areas where both 13-year and 17-year cicadas are common. Or that scientists have identified fifteen different annual broods for the two varieties, thus assuring some cicada action almost every year. For this and more about the weird cicada lifecycle see this website from UT-Knoxville.

On the other hand, if you want to take advantage of this phenomenon, you'll be thrilled to learn that cicadas are eaten in many cultures and have been considered a delicacy for centuries. Apparently it's best to catch the newly hatched cicadas, which are then boiled briefly to "solidify their insides." Yum! See more edible bug recipes at this site from the University of Maryland.

CUSTOMS begins tomorrow

2011-05-24T09:06:00.001-05:00

CUSTOMS sessions begin tomorrow and last throughout the summer. CUSTOMS is the Middle Tennessee State University new student orientation program. CUSTOMS helps new undergraduate students make the transition into the university; prepares new students for MTSU's educational opportunities; and initiates the integration of new students into the intellectual, cultural, and social climate of the institution. Our online schedule details the activities of the orientation. Registration is required and fees apply. All students who are tentatively accepted to MTSU receive CUSTOMS registration information and informational brochure. Both new students and their families are encouraged to attend.

Welcome to MTSU and the Walker Library!

CUSTOMS 2011

May 25-26 (W-Th) - Scholarship session
June 2-3 (Th-F) - Bus/LA/MC/Ed/Und
June 7-8 (T-W) - CBAS/BHS/Und
June 10-11 (F-S) - Bus/LA/MC/Ed/Und
June 15-16 (W-Th) - CBAS/BHS/Und
June 21-22 (T-W) - CBAS/BHS/Und
July 6-7 (W-Th) - Bus/LA/MC/Ed/Und
July 14-15 (Th-F) - CBAS/BHS/Und
July 19-20 (T-W) - Bus/LA/MC/Ed/Und
July 22-23 (F-S) - CBAS/BHS/Und
July 27-28 (W-Th) - All Colleges

Welcome to the Walker Library

2011-05-24T08:16:00.012-05:00

At the James E. Walker Library, you are sure to find exactly what you need.

The Library can assist you with:
· Finding information
· Starting your research
· Navigating our website
· Locating books, articles, and other sources

For Quick Help you can:
· IM / Chat with a Librarian
· EMAIL us
· Text us at 265010
· Call 898-2817
· Visit the Reference Desk (1st flr)
Go to: library.mtsu.edu/help or click on the anywhere on the website to get help from a Librarian.

Quick Facts about the Walker Library
· Over 300 computers & dozens of scanners
· Free printing
· Nearly a million books/magazines
· Check out 20 books for up to 4 wks
· University Writing Center
· Digital Media Studio w/ macs & crazy software
· Group study rooms (some reserveable)
· Wireless internet
· Express Printing Stations
· Laptops for checkout
· Quiet Zones on 3rd & 4th floors
· Starbucks

Additional Library information:
Library Hours
Library Jobs
Get started finding information for your project or paper.
Common Questions for students.
Ways you can support the Library
Other Libraries and Archives on campus.

Be sure to follow us on:

Writing Center closed until June 6

2011-05-18T11:32:00.007-05:00

The University Writing Center, located in room 362 of the library, will be closed until June 6, 2011.

From June 6 to August 12, the hours are 9 a.m - 3 p.m.

See the Writing Center website for helpful online writing and grammar handouts. For citation guides and generators, see this library page.

Summer Hours Start May 16

2011-05-13T12:23:00.003-05:00

The Library will be closed Saturday and Sunday, May 14 and 15.

Summer hours begin when we reopen Monday, May 16, at 7:30 am. Will you be here to join us?

Saturday Power Outage

2011-05-13T12:14:00.002-05:00

A campus-wide power outage on Saturday, May 14 means that library online resources, including Infosearch, will be unavailable from 4:30pm on Friday until sometime Saturday afternoon when power is restored. Thanks for your patience.

May Break Hours

2011-05-05T16:13:00.013-05:00

Congratulations to all of our graduates! A well-deserved break is (almost) here for all students.

The library will be closed the next two weekends and on a shortened schedule through May 16, but we will be here for you. See all summer hours here.

Photo by Dave Herholz. Licensed under Creative Commons.

Sidelines and Midlander preserved

2011-05-02T16:13:00.005-05:00

Old issues of Sidelines and Midlanders have been preserved for years to come.

The Special Collections department of Walker Library has been retaining issues of Sidelines, the MTSU student newspaper, covering 1938 to present. Because of the fragile nature of newsprint paper, the earliest issues were in a brittle, poor condition and were literally falling apart.

Copies were held in a climate controlled area and access was restricted because handling further damaged the issues. A project to have the newspapers microfilmed began last year and has now been completed. Preservation-quality microfilm is predicted to last 500 years. Over 34,000 pages of Sidelines are now available in microfilm in Walker Library’s 2nd floor Digital Media Studio area. The next step is to have the issues digitized and made available online.

Midlander yearbooks (1938—2004) have already been digitized and can be accessed through the MTSU Memory Collection. Also take a look at other library digital collections.

Copyright and Faculty Rights Webinar

2011-05-02T16:04:00.012-05:00

The Walker Library along with Instructional Media Resources is sponsoring a webinar for faculty to help them apply copyright laws appropriately in the classroom, research, and scholarship.

Copyright and Faculty Rights
May 12, 2011
12:00 – 1:30 p.m.
Library Conference Room 475

It is not always clear how copyright and fair use laws apply to teaching. The increasing ease of copying and distribution of digital materials raises the stakes even more. Faculty often do not have access to the resources and support they need to sort those challenges out. Join us online to understand the challenges and solutions of applying copyright law in your classrooms, research, and scholarship.

The webinar will cover:

Ownership of copyrighted works

Steps to protect and manage your copyright

Publication agreements

Open content requirements

Institutional requirements and open access

Fair use – using and being used (including Google Books)

For more information call the Library at 615-898-2772.

photo credit: pryere at flickr.com

Writing Center Hours for Exams

2011-04-28T15:41:00.002-05:00

The University Writing Center (Library Rm 362) will be open reduced hours through the end of exams.

Friday, April 29: 9am-3pm
Saturday and Sunday: Closed
Monday, May2-Thurs, May 4: 9am-3pm

If you need citation assistance at other hours, see the library's Citation Style Guides. Writing and citation handouts can be found on the Writing Center's website.

Final Exam Schedule

2011-04-28T13:54:00.002-05:00

Do you know when your finals take place?

http://www.mtsu.edu/records/ssexam.shtml

Good luck!!

Stormy weather: save your work often

2011-04-27T11:28:00.006-05:00

Severe weather will persist today, and power surges and tornado warnings are likely. Save your work often -- preferably to an external device such as a usb drive or send it to yourself as an email attachment-- to avoid losing it, and be ready to move quickly to the designated safe places in the library if the alarm sounds. If you save your work in the My Documents folder of a library computer, it should also be accessible to you the next time you log in to that machine.

Live Radar and Severe Weather Alerts

Need a textbook for finals?

2011-04-25T15:17:00.005-05:00

If you managed to make it through the semester without buying the textbook, but find yourself needing it to cram for the finals, the library may be able to help. While we don't usually buy textbooks for our regular collection, instructors will often place a copy on course reserve in the library so that the whole class has access to it for the semester. Search by course number or instructor name. You never know... you might even find old practice exams on course reserve, as well.

Occasional a textbook will slip into our regular collection, so feel free to search our catalog by the textbook title. Because textbooks often have common titles (e.g. Introduction to Art), it often helps to also search by an author name. These textbooks may be several editions old, but students usually find them helpful enough.

Stop by the reference desk on the library 1st floor, call, or chat with us if you need help.

And good luck on exams!

photo credit: Textbook Stack cc greenasian at flickr

University Writing Center

2011-04-19T10:16:00.012-05:00

Open Mic Night!

Thurs., April 21st , 9:00 pm

Everyone is welcome to attend and share poetry, short stories, or excerpts from longer works. Participation is not mandatory, so feel free to come and enjoy the arts!

Come to the University Writing Center in Walker Library room 362.

2011 University Writing Center Benefit Rock Show!

When: Wednesday, April 27th (the day before study day), 6-11 p.m.

Where: Good Time Charlie's (inside Lanes, Trains, & Automobiles)
450 Butler Drive, Murfreesboro, TN 37127

Featured Bands: Tetsuo, The Dead Dead, Kat Smo, Paper Not Plastic, and Mom & Dad
There is a $5 suggested donation which benefits the Writing Center's Outreach Program.

For more info contact the Writing Center at 615-904-8237.

Academic Success Series

2011-04-19T10:03:00.006-05:00

The Academic Success Series continues: Put a Spring in Your Final Exam Preparation

Tues., April 19th & Tues., April 26th at 4:30, Walker Library 264A.

This session will provide a helpful guide to students who are not sure how to study for final exams. A brief review of test taking tips will also be included.

The Academic Success Series is a program offered by the University College Advising Center. If you missed any of the other sessions click here for the worksheets & slides.

Earth Day Library Green Tips

2011-04-18T11:26:00.005-05:00

Earth Day is this Friday, April 22. Here are some ways you can be more green in the library:

#1 Recycle your beverage containers and unwanted paper. The library has plastic bottle and aluminum can recycling bins on each of the 4 floors of the library, located just past the elevators near the computers. Make sure you uncap bottles before you deposit them, and don't stick paper, food, or anything else in the bottles. A lot of contaminated bottles could cause a whole bin to get trashed rather than recycled.You can also recycle unwanted paper in bins near the printers on all four floors.

#2 Conserve Paper

Double Sided Printing: You've probably noticed that the library printers are set to print on both sides of the paper, and that's a great paper saver, unless you are required to print single-sided for a class assignment. You can temporarily reset printing to single-sided this way: From the Print box, select Properties or Preferences. From the Printing Shortcuts tab, select General Everyday Printing instead of Two Sided (Duplex) Printing. Remember to do this ahead of time, and you won't waste paper by having to reprint. Also, try asking your prof if he/she will accept double sided printouts. You may be surprised.

PowerPoints: Did you know you can print more than one PowerPoint slide on each page? You can print 2, 3, 4, 6, 0r 9 on one page by doing this: from the Print box, look in the lower left corner for Print What. Choose Handouts instead of Slides, and choose how many to print on one page.If you're pulling a PowerPoint from D2L, you may have to save it to the computer you're working on before you can get this option. Simply choose Save instead of Open when you click on the ppt.

#3 Conserve energy and water

Turn off the lights in the group study rooms when you leave.

Take the stairs instead of the elevators.

Don't let the water run when you wash your hands or brush your teeth. Yes, a lot of people brush their teeth in the library.

Don't flush every time you use the toilet. (Ok, maybe leave that one for home)

Staff: turn off your computers when you leave in the evenings and set your computer to an energy saving mode for when you're away from your desk

Sesquicentennial of the Civil War

2011-04-12T09:37:00.003-05:00

Today marks the 150th anniversary of the start of the Civil War. Confederate forces fired on Fort Sumter in South Carolina and the next day the fort was surrendered, launching the Civil War. In Tennessee the sesquicentennial has special significance in large part due to the 1,462 battles fought in each of Tennessee 95 counties. Maps , timelines and Civil War trails in Tennessee help capture the scope of the fighting. Another unique factor for Tennessee is the sesquicentennial and Tennessee's connection, MTSU has a variety of resources including Gore Center's collection of Civil War resources and our digital collections Stones River Battlefield image collection. photo credit: Photograph. Encyclopædia Britannica Online. Web. 12 Apr. 2011. .

Taking the GRE, Praxis, LSAT, etc?

2011-04-11T09:53:00.003-05:00

The Walker Library's Learning Express Library database can help you prepare for the GRE and other standardized tests such as the PRAXIS, GMAT, LSAT, and MCAT. Browse through the categories or do a quick search by test name to find sample tests. You can also take licensing, certification, and aptitude practice tests for fields such as Nursing, Emergency Medical Services, Law Enforcement, Military, and Real Estate, to name few. You must complete a free registration to save your results. This resource is available for free to all Tennesseans through the Tennessee Electronic Library, so tell a friend!

National Library Week

2011-04-08T14:39:00.007-05:00

April 10 - 16, 2011

First sponsored in 1958, National Library Week is a national observance sponsored by the American Library Association (ALA) and libraries across the country each April. It is a time to celebrate the contributions of our nation's libraries and librarians and to promote library use and support. All types of libraries - school, public, academic and special - participate.

On display here in the Walker Library is a sampling of items that all of the libraries on campus have in their collections. The display is on the 1st floor in the exhibit cases just past the elevators. Stop by and see what the libraries all over our campus offer.

Click here to learn more about the Libraries in the display.

2011 Jaz's Jammies Drive

2011-04-05T09:30:00.009-05:00

April 1 - April 30, 2011

Collecting NEW Children's Pajamas benefiting the Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt and homeless shelters in the Murfreesboro area.

Donation Boxes are located in the Walker Library, KUC, BAS, and Mass Comm buildings.

For more information about Jaz's Jammies click here.

Scholars Week, April 4-8

2011-04-04T15:16:00.003-05:00

Scholars Week is an annual celebration of student and faculty scholarship on the MTSU campus. College-specific scholar talks and displays are scheduled throughout the week and are open to the entire campus community. The week culminates on Friday, April 8 at Murphy Center in a university-wide Scholars Day which features multimedia poster sessions and performances by students, faculty, and staff. Everyone is invited to attend and view, listen, ask questions, and partake of refreshments! View details and contact information.

Need Help? We have a lot to give.

2011-03-30T15:06:00.013-05:00

*image courtesy the Albert Gore Research Center, Middle Tennessee State University.
MTSU Memory Collection

Judging by the increased traffic and serious faces in the library lately, it's crunch time. Papers are coming due, presentations are looming, deadlines are bearing down... Are you feeling the pressure? We can help.

Come to the library (or library website) to

Find books, articles and other sources to impress your professors!

Come to the reference desk on the 1st floor to get quick guidance any time from friendly library staff
Use our Subject Guides to find quality sources on any topic
Ask for help through our chat or email service
Learn how to search and find with video tutorials
Struggling for a topic? Check out the resources on the Current Issues guide. They cover perennial issues and hot topics.

Write like a pro!

The University Writing Center is on the 3rd floor of the library. These guys and gals will work with you from the start to make sure you get your point across effectively and eloquently.

Cite those sources correctly!

Use our recommended citation guides and citation generators
Look for the citation tools in several library databases

Present it beautifully!

The Digital Media Studio on the library's 2nd floor houses Macs and PCs laden with multimedia software for creating video, audio, still graphics, and slide shows. The knowledgeable staff are eager to help.

See, you're not in this alone. Now, don't you feel better?

Nuclear Power in the US

2011-03-21T13:34:00.024-05:00

Just as the US was moving toward a renewed nuclear power plan in order to curb greenhouse gases produced by coal-derived energy, the horrible tragedy in Japan -- which began as a natural disaster and quickly expanded to a nuclear crisis -- has the public and politicans rethinking nuclear's future in this country. Once you get beyond the emotions of the moment, you may find yourself wondering exactly what the nuclear landscape is like at this moment. And what are the key issues being debated by policy makers? Here are some sources to give you a little background.

Where are the US nuclear reactors?

More Maps and Data
Reactor locations and seismic hazard in the US
Nuclear Europe
Top Ten nuclear reliant countries

Current Debates and Considerations
Nuclear Energy Topic Guide from the New York Times
Managing Nuclear Waste from CQ Researcher (may require login)
Does the US Need More Nuclear Power? from US News and World Report

Learning Commons Furniture Showcase

2011-03-21T10:00:00.000-05:00

As you have probably noticed, the library is undergoing some changes in the 1st floor reference area. We will be placing several different types of tables and chairs in that space, and now we want to show you a few options for the more casual seating configurations.

We are trying to be as "green" as possible during this renovation, and you will be hearing a lot about our sustainable furnishing choices. What's cool about these chairs is that they are Greenguard certified, are made of 80% post consumer content, and are designed to last in a commercial environment for a decade. Also, they are easily disassembled so that we can send off an arm or cushion for replacement or repair as necessary. This saves money and resources, since we don't have to replace an entire chair as damage occurs.

Come by in the next week to sit on them, bounce the cushions, try to nap, etc, and give us some feedback. We will likely use a mixture of styles throughout the renovated zones. Keep in mind that these are just samples and do not necessarily represent our final upholstery choices.

The chairs are on display in the echo dome, past the elevators on the first floor. You can give us your feedback here.

Digital Media Studio Open House

2011-03-18T15:52:00.008-05:00

Faculty,

We invite you to come to the Digital Media Studio Open House on Tuesday, March 22. We will be there from 8-4.30 to showcase the equipment and services we offer. We will have some program demonstrations as well as an opportunity to brainstorm about how the studio can help your students create vibrant, media rich projects. Oh, and we will give away stuff (including candy). So drop in and check us out.

Women's History Month

2011-03-14T14:49:00.005-05:00

from Discovering American Women's History Online

March is Women's History Month, and there are several events taking place on campus through this and next month.

To dig a little deeper, check out the library's Women's Studies resource guide. It feature feminist and women's history periodicals, as well as digital collections of primary source materials dating back to the 16th century. Discovering American Women's History Online is an award-winning digital collection maintained by MTSU librarian, Ken Middleton.

If you're looking for some good books to read, check the Infosearch catalog by author or title. Check out these (by no means exhaustive) lists of great female writers.

Hug your mama, granny, sister, girlfriend, or yourself, and celebrate women's history.

Daylight Savings Time

2011-03-10T09:54:00.003-06:00

Yes, the most dreaded night of the year is here, when we lose an hour of sleep as Daylight Savings Time starts. Don't forget to set your clocks forward an hour on Saturday night (March 12). We'd hate for you to be late to class (work, breakfast, etc.) on Monday!

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photo credit: alancleaver_2000 on Flickr!

Website Security Error

2011-03-09T11:31:00.005-06:00

This week when you click on a database link from the library homepage, you may encounter this error screen:

Click Continue to this website to gain entry into the database. We promise nothing bad will happen if you do.

We will fix this annoying research roadblock as soon possible.

Downloadable E-books

2011-03-03T11:38:00.005-06:00

Some of the ebooks in our NetLibrary collection are now available for download to your laptop or selected ereaders and mobile devices. You can find ebooks in the Infosearch library catalog as well as directly in the ebooks databases (NetLibrary and Ebrary are the largest.)

Here is what you will see when you find a downloadable ebook in NetLibrary (you must click on View Details in a search result list):

You'll need to create a free account to download books, and an additional software download (Adobe Digital Editions) may be required. The book will be accessible to for 3 days and then it will become locked, though you can access it again online through the NetLibrary database. The ebook downloads work well on a computer, and they are supposed to be transferrable to several devices, but this librarian couldn't get one to work on an iPhone. If you have luck getting one on your Nook, Sony Reader, or other compatible device (not the Kindle, though) let us know.

Spring Break Hours

2011-03-03T10:46:00.003-06:00

Yes, that's right. While some of you are lying on the beach sipping fruity beverages, we will be here preserving the life of the mind (come on by... it'll be quiet!). Here are the library Spring Break hours:

Sat, March 5: 8:00-5
Sun, March 6: closed

Mon-Thurs, March 7-10: 8-4:30

Fri and Sat, March 11-12: closed

Sun, March 13: 1pm - midnight

See library hours for the whole semester.

Have a restful and/or productive Spring Break.

Are you confused about Egypt, Libya and Bahrain?

2011-02-28T10:42:00.012-06:00

There is a lot happening in the world right now and it can be difficult to get a good grasp of international news and politics. There are some great web resources that provide a balanced explanation of the country and region so that you can better understand what is happening right now.

BBC Country Profiles

CIA World Fact Book

For even more in depth information check out the Country Studies page on the library main page> Select a Course Subject> Country Studies.

Two great databases are Global Researcher, which gives you updated information on current events and CultureGrams, which gives you a cultural overview of a country. If you are off campus, you will need to sign in with your Pipeline info when prompted.

If you need help finding more resources, come visit a librarian at the Reference desk on the 1st floor.

Scholars Week submissions due March 1

2011-02-25T10:38:00.008-06:00

Showcase your outstanding class project or research paper at this year's Scholars Week, taking place April 4-8, 2011.

The deadline for project submissions is Tuesday, March 1, so don't delay! We at the library have heard you talk about many fascinating projects in library instruction classes and at the reference desk, so don't tell us you don't have anything worth sharing.

Academic Integrity Workshop

2011-02-21T13:19:00.005-06:00

The Academic Success Series continues, this Tuesday in Walker Library 264A at 4:30pm.

February 22nd - Academic Integrity & YOU: The Role All Students Play in Upholding MTSU's Values

Presenter: Amanda Newman Samsel, Coordinator, Judicial Affairs & Mediation Services

Doing what's right, even when no one is watching is often much harder for students than they realize. This presentation covers the four different parts of MTSU's Academic Misconduct policy. Each rule will be highlighted and ways to avoid committing plagiarism will be discussed. The session also focuses on WHY Academic Integrity is so important and the ways all students contribute to MTSU's reputation, knowingly or not.

----------------------------------------------

March 15th - Captivate and Educate: Essential Presentation Skills

Presenter: Brian Walsh, Admissions Counselor, Undergraduate Admissions

From book reports in first grade to the executive retreat at work, we will never outgrow presentations. Regardless of the setting or audience, following a few guidelines can guarantee an effective session. If you truly want to “Spring Into Academic Success”, start by learning these essential presentation skills.

March 22nd - Advising showers bring Registration flowers!

Presenter: Travis Tipton, College Advisor, College of Basic and Applied Sciences

Academic advising is a very important part of each and every student’s experience at MTSU. This workshop will discuss advisor and student responsibilities and the nature of the student-advisor relationship as well as discussing key resources available to students via their academic advisors. Registration goes beyond adding and dropping courses. This session will highlight important dates and how student can be proactive in regards to Priority Registration.

March 29th - Spring Break Career Party
Presenters: Bill Fletcher, Director, Career Development CenterKaty Francisco Riddle, Publicity & Outreach Coordinator, Career Development Center

Does combining career information and a Spring Break party sound too good to be true? Discover how your personality relates to majors and possible career fields during this fun and interactive party that will help lead the way to choosing your career path.

April 5th - Academic Integrity & YOU: The Role All Students Play in Upholding MTSU's Values
Presenter: Amanda Newman Samsel, Coordinator, Judicial Affairs & Mediation Services

Doing what's right, even when no one is watching is often much harder for students than they realize. This presentation covers the four different parts of MTSU's Academic Misconduct policy. Each rule will be highlighted and ways to avoid committing plagiarism will be discussed. The session also focuses on WHY Academic Integrity is so important and the ways all students contribute to MTSU's reputation, knowingly or not.

April 19th & April 26th - Put a Spring in Your Final Exam Preparation
Presenter: Laura Clippard, Academic Advisor, University Honors College

This session will provide a helpful guide to students who are not sure how to study for final exams. A brief review of test taking tips will also be included.

Safety Video

2011-02-18T15:59:00.001-06:00

The Department of Public Safety will be showing a video titled “Shots Fired,” in the KUC Theater several times during the week of Feb. 21. It would be worth every student, staff and faculty member’s time to view it.

Showings will be twice a day, 9 to 10 a.m., and 1 to 2 p.m. , Feb. 21-24 (Monday through Thursday).

A Q&A session will follow the video. You are urged to attend.

Creative Writing Group

2011-02-18T15:56:00.005-06:00

At the Creative Writing Group, we meet to discuss and workshop all different types of writing, from short stories to novels, from poetry to screenplays.

We meet Tuesdays from 4:30 to 5:30 pm, and attendance each week is optional. We hope you’ll stop by!

The university Writing Center is located in the Walker Library, room 362. We are on the 3rd floor on the right side of the balcony.

Writing Center Open Mic Night

2011-02-18T15:55:00.003-06:00

The University Writing Center will be holding two open mic nights at 9:00 pm on February 22nd and April 21st in Library 362. Everyone is welcome to attend and share poetry, short stories, or excerpts from longer works. Participation is not mandatory, so feel free to come and enjoy the arts!

Library and Research Skills Workshop, Feb 15

2011-02-11T15:46:00.004-06:00

Term papers got you down? Learn some research shortcuts at the next workshop in the Academic Success Series, taking place next Tuesday at 4:30 pm in room 264A, Walker Library.

February 15th - Library BINGO

Presenter: Kristen West, Instruction Librarian, Walker Library

Spend a fun hour playing BINGO and learning what successful MTSU students know about the library. This session will cover information on timesaving online research sites and citation tools, getting the most out of Google Scholar, 10 foods to ~~sneak~~ bring into the library to improve your productivity, tips for finding an open computer in the library, and how to save money on textbooks.

----------------------------------------------------------------

February 22nd - Academic Integrity & YOU: The Role All Students Play in Upholding MTSU's Values

Presenter: Amanda Newman Samsel, Coordinator, Judicial Affairs & Mediation Services

Doing what's right, even when no one is watching is often much harder for students than they realize. This presentation covers the four different parts of MTSU's Academic Misconduct policy. Each rule will be highlighted and ways to avoid committing plagiarism will be discussed. The session also focuses on WHY Academic Integrity is so important and the ways all students contribute to MTSU's reputation, knowingly or not.

March 15th - Captivate and Educate: Essential Presentation Skills

Presenter: Brian Walsh, Admissions Counselor, Undergraduate Admissions

From book reports in first grade to the executive retreat at work, we will never outgrow presentations. Regardless of the setting or audience, following a few guidelines can guarantee an effective session. If you truly want to “Spring Into Academic Success”, start by learning these essential presentation skills.

March 22nd - Advising showers bring Registration flowers!

Presenter: Travis Tipton, College Advisor, College of Basic and Applied Sciences

Academic advising is a very important part of each and every student’s experience at MTSU. This workshop will discuss advisor and student responsibilities and the nature of the student-advisor relationship as well as discussing key resources available to students via their academic advisors. Registration goes beyond adding and dropping courses. This session will highlight important dates and how student can be proactive in regards to Priority Registration.

March 29th - Spring Break Career Party
Presenters: Bill Fletcher, Director, Career Development CenterKaty Francisco Riddle, Publicity & Outreach Coordinator, Career Development Center

Does combining career information and a Spring Break party sound too good to be true? Discover how your personality relates to majors and possible career fields during this fun and interactive party that will help lead the way to choosing your career path.

April 19th & April 26th - Put a Spring in Your Final Exam Preparation
Presenter: Laura Clippard, Academic Advisor, University Honors College

This session will provide a helpful guide to students who are not sure how to study for final exams. A brief review of test taking tips will also be included.

Interlibrary Loan Alert

2011-02-07T10:58:00.002-06:00

We are pleased to report that Interlibrary Loan is once again able to accept and process requests. If you experience any problems logging in to ILLiad, or if you have any questions, please contact us.

Thank you for your patience.

Citation Tools and Help

2011-02-04T10:41:00.008-06:00

The paper is all finished and you're so relieved, but wait! You still have to cite all of those sources. What a drag. Luckily, there are several tools to help you.

Article database tools.

If you found your sources in a library database such as Academic Search Premier (EBSCO) or Omnifile (Wilson Web), you can click a very handy link in the article record to see it formatted in MLA, APA, and several other styles. The tool is located in different spots for each database, so just look around for a link or icon that says Cite. When the formatted citation appears, copy and paste it into your own document. You may need to make minor changes such as indenting or removing all caps from titles.

Easybib.com

Sadly, not every database has a citation tool, and you may also have sources that you find elsewhere. This is where Easybib.com comes in handy. MLA citation formatting is free for over 58 citation types such as articles, books, websites, newspapers, speeches, images, and many more. Simply type in the source title to see if Easybib can locate the information for you. If not, you can manually enter the information and have it formatted for you. If you need a style other than MLA, it does require a paid subscription, but the rates are pretty reasonable.

Online Style Guides

There are several very good online guides that show examples and give written instructions for each source type. The library has compiled some of the best on its Citation and Style Guides page.

Personal assistance

Still have questions or just prefer talking to a human being? Come see us at the Reference Desk on the 1st floor. We'll help you! And don't forget about the Writing Center on the 3rd floor (room 362) of the library. They know quite a bit about this topic, as well.

Study Skills and Test Taking -- Tues, Feb 8.

2011-02-04T10:31:00.007-06:00

Midterms are just around the corner! Make the best grade with tips from this workshop, the next in the Academic Success Series, held in Room 264A on the 2nd floor of the Walker Library at 4:30 pm.

February 8th - Study Skills & Test Taking

Presenter: Gia Jones, Advisor, University College Advising Center

Fall is gone…time to Spring along! What an easy journey you can make if you apply simple study skills for test taking. Don’t know where to start? Join me and I will guide you from beginning to end.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Also plan to attend these upcoming workshops.

February 15th - Library BINGO

Presenter: Kristen West, Instruction Librarian, Walker Library

Spend a fun hour playing BINGO and learning what successful MTSU students know about the library. This session will cover information on timesaving online research sites and citation tools, getting the most out of Google Scholar, 10 foods to ~~sneak~~ bring into the library to improve your productivity, tips for finding an open computer in the library, and how to save money on textbooks.

February 22nd - Academic Integrity & YOU: The Role All Students Play in Upholding MTSU's Values

Presenter: Amanda Newman Samsel, Coordinator, Judicial Affairs & Mediation Services

Doing what's right, even when no one is watching is often much harder for students than they realize. This presentation covers the four different parts of MTSU's Academic Misconduct policy. Each rule will be highlighted and ways to avoid committing plagiarism will be discussed. The session also focuses on WHY Academic Integrity is so important and the ways all students contribute to MTSU's reputation, knowingly or not.

March 15th - Captivate and Educate: Essential Presentation Skills

Presenter: Brian Walsh, Admissions Counselor, Undergraduate Admissions

From book reports in first grade to the executive retreat at work, we will never outgrow presentations. Regardless of the setting or audience, following a few guidelines can guarantee an effective session. If you truly want to “Spring Into Academic Success”, start by learning these essential presentation skills.

March 22nd - Advising showers bring Registration flowers!

Presenter: Travis Tipton, College Advisor, College of Basic and Applied Sciences

Academic advising is a very important part of each and every student’s experience at MTSU. This workshop will discuss advisor and student responsibilities and the nature of the student-advisor relationship as well as discussing key resources available to students via their academic advisors. Registration goes beyond adding and dropping courses. This session will highlight important dates and how student can be proactive in regards to Priority Registration.

March 29th - Spring Break Career Party
Presenters: Bill Fletcher, Director, Career Development CenterKaty Francisco Riddle, Publicity & Outreach Coordinator, Career Development Center

Does combining career information and a Spring Break party sound too good to be true? Discover how your personality relates to majors and possible career fields during this fun and interactive party that will help lead the way to choosing your career path.

April 19th & April 26th - Put a Spring in Your Final Exam Preparation
Presenter: Laura Clippard, Academic Advisor, University Honors College

This session will provide a helpful guide to students who are not sure how to study for final exams. A brief review of test taking tips will also be included.

Pay your library fines/fees online

2011-01-31T08:07:00.005-06:00

Hey, got some old library fines sitting around? Yeah, it's ok. It happens. Now you can pay your fines without having to face the cardigan-wearing stern librarian peering over her cat eye glasses, wondering why you needed to keep The Idiot's Guide to Blindfolded Beekeeping for so long. (That's not really who we are, but that's how it can feel, right?)

So, starting February 5, we will no longer take payments at the Circulation Desk. Instead, you can do it all online. You will need to know your fine total before using the online fee system, so take note of it when you log in to your Library Account. Using the online fee payment system is pretty simple. (No Idiot's guide needed for this one.)

1. Log in to your My Library Account (linked on the library homepage) with your Pipeline information
2. Locate the exact amount you owe and then click on Library Fines and Fees
3. On the next page, click again on the link that says Library Fines and Fees
4. Enter the amount of your payment and Add to Cart (again, you'll need to know this ahead of time. This information is in your Library Account)
5. On the next page, enter your name and either your M number or library barcode (the one on the back of your MTSU ID starting with 23082) and then Checkout
6. Enter your email and either register an account or Continue Unregistered
7. Then pay with your debit or credit card

And, presto! Your record is clean. Well, technically it takes one business day to clear any holds, but your conscience will be clean. Let us know if you have any questions about this process.

Book Drive Collection Box

2011-01-28T09:05:00.004-06:00

MTSU's Margaret H. Ordoubadian University Writing Center is holding a book drive for Murfreesboro City Schools that will run now through February 28, 2011. With the current economic situation, funding for materials like books is often the first thing cut, and we are hoping to contribute to this area of need with your help.

We are looking for new or gently used children's books for ages Pre-K through middle school. Donations can be dropped off in the Writing Center in the James E. Walker Library (room 362) or in our book drive collection box in the lobby of the Library. For questions or suggestions, please contact Jenny Rowan, Assistant Coordinator of the University Writing Center at 494.8932 or jrowan@mtsu.edu.

Black History Month Display

2011-01-28T08:50:00.008-06:00

“Free at Last! Emancipation and Reconstruction in Tennessee,” a 2-panel traveling exhibit that emphasizes the significance of emancipation as a result of the Civil War, will be on view in the lobby of the James E. Walker Library at MTSU for the month of February 2011.

The exhibit provides an introduction to the joys and challenges shared by African Americans in Tennessee during the aftermath of slavery. The Reconstruction years were crucial to the development of African American communities throughout the state, and "Free at Last" highlights some of these communities.

In addition, books featuring African American authors will be on display and available for checkout.

The exhibit is sponsored by the Walker Library at MTSU and the Tennessee Civil War National Heritage Area.

Need Tax Forms?

2011-01-28T08:39:00.010-06:00

The Walker Library does not have printed copies of the 1040 booklet or other tax forms, but never fear: you can get everything you need from the IRS website and print it off in the library computer labs. Links to the most commonly needed forms are on the left of the screen, or you can search for other forms from the search box at the top of the page. Not sure if you need to file a tax return? See this page.

Don't forget: Your tax return must be e-filed or postmarked by April 18 (the traditional tax return filing deadline is April 15 of each year, but the IRS has approved April 18, 2011, as the tax filing deadline for 2010 Tax Returns in observance of Emancipation Day in the District of Columbia).

'Tis the season for love! Do you love your planner?

2011-01-27T10:20:00.006-06:00

The Academic Success series continues with a valentine to the college student's sanity saver: the planner! Workshops are held in Walker Library 264A at 4:30 p.m.

February 1st - Love Your Planner

Presenter: Becca Seul, Advisor, University College Advising Center

Time management is something students struggle with each semester. This session will cover one of the first steps to success- techniques to help you manage your time wisely.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

And don't forget to put the rest of the series in your handy dandy calendar.

February 8th - Study Skills & Test Taking

Presenter: Gia Jones, Advisor, University College Advising Center

Fall is gone…time to Spring along! What an easy journey you can make if you apply simple study skills for test taking. Don’t know where to start? Join me and I will guide you from beginning to end.

February 15th - Library BINGO

Presenter: Kristen West, Instruction Librarian, Walker Library

Spend a fun hour playing BINGO and learning what successful MTSU students know about the library. This session will cover information on timesaving online research sites and citation tools, getting the most out of Google Scholar, 10 foods to ~~sneak~~ bring into the library to improve your productivity, tips for finding an open computer in the library, and how to save money on textbooks.

February 22nd - Academic Integrity & YOU: The Role All Students Play in Upholding MTSU's Values

Presenter: Amanda Newman Samsel, Coordinator, Judicial Affairs & Mediation Services

Doing what's right, even when no one is watching is often much harder for students than they realize. This presentation covers the four different parts of MTSU's Academic Misconduct policy. Each rule will be highlighted and ways to avoid committing plagiarism will be discussed. The session also focuses on WHY Academic Integrity is so important and the ways all students contribute to MTSU's reputation, knowingly or not.

March 15th - Captivate and Educate: Essential Presentation Skills

Presenter: Brian Walsh, Admissions Counselor, Undergraduate Admissions

From book reports in first grade to the executive retreat at work, we will never outgrow presentations. Regardless of the setting or audience, following a few guidelines can guarantee an effective session. If you truly want to “Spring Into Academic Success”, start by learning these essential presentation skills.

March 22nd - Advising showers bring Registration flowers!

Presenter: Travis Tipton, College Advisor, College of Basic and Applied Sciences

Academic advising is a very important part of each and every student’s experience at MTSU. This workshop will discuss advisor and student responsibilities and the nature of the student-advisor relationship as well as discussing key resources available to students via their academic advisors. Registration goes beyond adding and dropping courses. This session will highlight important dates and how student can be proactive in regards to Priority Registration.

March 29th - Spring Break Career Party
Presenters: Bill Fletcher, Director, Career Development CenterKaty Francisco Riddle, Publicity & Outreach Coordinator, Career Development Center

Does combining career information and a Spring Break party sound too good to be true? Discover how your personality relates to majors and possible career fields during this fun and interactive party that will help lead the way to choosing your career path.

April 19th & April 26th - Put a Spring in Your Final Exam Preparation
Presenter: Laura Clippard, Academic Advisor, University Honors College

This session will provide a helpful guide to students who are not sure how to study for final exams. A brief review of test taking tips will also be included.

Academic Success Series: Spring Cleaning, Jan. 25

2011-01-24T09:09:00.005-06:00

The Academic Success Series, a program of the University College Advising Center, will be held this semester in the library. All sessions are held in Walker Library Room 264A at 4:30pm. The events are as follow:

January 25th - Spring Cleaning

Presenter: Heather Spell Arrington, Advisor, University College Advising Center

It’s time to clean out the struggle from last semester and focus on the future. In this session we will discuss ways to spring into a successful semester. We will also talk about probation status, what it means and how to get off of probation. If you are looking to make a clean start, this session is for YOU!

February 1st - Love Your Planner

Presenter: Becca Seul, Advisor, University College Advising Center

Time management is something students struggle with each semester. This session will cover one of the first steps to success- techniques to help you manage your time wisely.

February 8th - Study Skills & Test Taking

Presenter: Gia Jones, Advisor, University College Advising Center

Fall is gone…time to Spring along! What an easy journey you can make if you apply simple study skills for test taking. Don’t know where to start? Join me and I will guide you from beginning to end.

February 15th - Library BINGO

Presenter: Kristen West, Instruction Librarian, Walker Library

Spend a fun hour playing BINGO and learning what successful MTSU students know about the library. This session will cover information on timesaving online research sites and citation tools, getting the most out of Google Scholar, 10 foods to ~~sneak~~ bring into the library to improve your productivity, tips for finding an open computer in the library, and how to save money on textbooks.

February 22nd - Academic Integrity & YOU: The Role All Students Play in Upholding MTSU's Values

Presenter: Amanda Newman Samsel, Coordinator, Judicial Affairs & Mediation Services

Doing what's right, even when no one is watching is often much harder for students than they realize. This presentation covers the four different parts of MTSU's Academic Misconduct policy. Each rule will be highlighted and ways to avoid committing plagiarism will be discussed. The session also focuses on WHY Academic Integrity is so important and the ways all students contribute to MTSU's reputation, knowingly or not.

March 15th - Captivate and Educate: Essential Presentation Skills

Presenter: Brian Walsh, Admissions Counselor, Undergraduate Admissions

From book reports in first grade to the executive retreat at work, we will never outgrow presentations. Regardless of the setting or audience, following a few guidelines can guarantee an effective session. If you truly want to “Spring Into Academic Success”, start by learning these essential presentation skills.

March 22nd - Advising showers bring Registration flowers!

Presenter: Travis Tipton, College Advisor, College of Basic and Applied Sciences

Academic advising is a very important part of each and every student’s experience at MTSU. This workshop will discuss advisor and student responsibilities and the nature of the student-advisor relationship as well as discussing key resources available to students via their academic advisors. Registration goes beyond adding and dropping courses. This session will highlight important dates and how student can be proactive in regards to Priority Registration.

March 29th - Spring Break Career Party
Presenters: Bill Fletcher, Director, Career Development CenterKaty Francisco Riddle, Publicity & Outreach Coordinator, Career Development Center

Does combining career information and a Spring Break party sound too good to be true? Discover how your personality relates to majors and possible career fields during this fun and interactive party that will help lead the way to choosing your career path.

April 19th & April 26th - Put a Spring in Your Final Exam Preparation
Presenter: Laura Clippard, Academic Advisor, University Honors College

This session will provide a helpful guide to students who are not sure how to study for final exams. A brief review of test taking tips will also be included.