Library Resources

Library Resources

Celebrating family history

Celebrating family history

, , Frances Yates, Library Resources
The U.S. Senate passed a resolution in 2001 to establish October as Family History Month. In the FamilySearch blog “Why We Need Family History Now More Than Ever” Rachel Coleman explains that “Knowing our cultural background and where we came from can help us develop a strong sense of who we really are. The way we relate to our family stories and create our own narratives about ourselves helps establish our unique, authentic core identity.” She also discusses the benefits of family history sharing in terms of connection, resilience, selflessness and self-worth. FamilySearch.org is the largest free genealogical database in the world, containing more than 3 billion names. In addition to research, they offer an option to create a free … Continued
The World of Art

The World of Art

, Jesse Whitton, Library Resources, outreach
The Indiana University East Campus Library always welcomes classes in the Library. We were delighted that art faculty Sam Kelly brought his Painting and Drawing class for a “Drawing in the Library Day.” To gain a deeper knowledge of artists and their works, students perused library resources such as G. Braque, Refigured painting, American images, and more. After selecting an artist, students sat down to begin their assignment of making master transcriptions of artists’ works. For online resources, check out the Grove Dictionary of Art, The Concise Oxford Dictionary of Art Terms, or search our eBook collection here.  Below are some of the masterpieces that Sam Kell’s students created, using graphite pencils and sketchbooks to draw. Top Row (L-R): After Chagall … Continued
Higher Testing

Higher Testing

, Library Resources, Matt Dilworth
Testing is a vital part of the educational process; verifying the mastery of skills needed to proceed.  Undergraduates have typically taken many tests on the way to becoming or earning advance credit as a student, including the SAT, ACT, or CLEP tests.  For those students who move beyond a Bachelor’s degree, there are other, more advanced tests required. Those interested in specialized graduate study are generally acutely aware of the requirements and expectations of their desired field, and tailor their undergraduate experience to prepare them for it – often referred to colloquially by phrases such as being on a ‘pre-law’ or ‘pre-med’ or ‘pre-business’ track, although what that entails can be quite informal.  For example, someone aspiring to be a … Continued
Counting on the Census

Counting on the Census

, Library Resources, Matt Dilworth
With a count of 331,449,281 residents, the 24th decennial Census of the United States is beginning to release the newest data about the current demographics of our country.  This procedure, a Constitutionally-mandated enumeration of the citizens and residents of the country, is a vital research tool – but it is also a source of conflict and controversy.  Since many consequential issues hinge on the results of the Census – principally the apportionment of representatives in the Congress and funding for government programs that include roads, schools, health, and emergency services – it has become a flashpoint for competing (and highly politicized) ideologies. The Census has long been plagued by controversy.  Both George Washington and Thomas Jeffeson thought the original 1790 … Continued
Climate Change and Sustainability: Where to Learn More and Engage Locally

Climate Change and Sustainability: Where to Learn More and Engage Locally

, , , Library Resources
Global warming is steadily accelerating, and it is increasingly apparent as this year alone we’ve had deadly flash floods, wildfires, and persistent heatwaves and drought throughout the world. Recently, more than 200 climate scientists met to finalize a report “summarizing how the Earth’s climate has already changed and what humans can expect for the rest of the century” (Hersher, 2021). This report, released August 9, 2021, is the 6th edition. Climate science research has progressed significantly since the last report came out in 2013 and this new report is the most detailed and accurate picture of the global climate to date, as the computer models and the data scientists use to predict future climate patterns has advanced. A major goal … Continued