Elizabeth South

Elizabeth South

Climate Resilience and Sustainability at IU East

Climate Resilience and Sustainability at IU East

, , Library Resources, outreach, Programs
The 2021 UN Climate Change Conference took place in Glasgow, Scotland from October 31 to November 12.  Aligned with that, there were several events at the IU East campus focused on climate change, climate resilience, and sustainability.  Participation by student organizations included the College Democrats of Indiana and the Animals and Earth Club. A Climate March for Our Lives event in the campus quad on October 26 inspired discussion on the importance of sustainability efforts, both small and large, and how there is much that we can still do at the campus, community, and state levels to make a difference. An active member of the Campus Climate Resilience Committee, Assistant Librarian of Access and Technical Services Beth South worked with the … Continued
Electronic Records: Preserve to protect

Electronic Records: Preserve to protect

, , , Library Resources, Website
Electronic records are a major part of our personal and professional lives, from the creative and academic work we publish online via journals, blogs, and social media platforms to the meeting minutes and published policies of individual groups, committees, and organizations. The majority of work is now online and we need to act in order to preserve it, the same as for physical materials. There is even an official day to recognize the importance of electronic records – Electronic Records Day, celebrated annually in October. This is a day dedicated to raising awareness among the general public, government agencies, and public institutions on the importance of preserving electronic records. Archivist Beth South is currently working on several initiatives to preserve … Continued
Human-Animal Bonds: Taking Care of Our Pets

Human-Animal Bonds: Taking Care of Our Pets

, , , Frances Yates, outreach
According to the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI), there are 5 major benefits to owning a pet: alleviate stress fight depression reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness encourage physical activity  facilitate healing and resiliency The Covid-19 pandemic and the disruption of businesses and education in 2020-21 forced many people to isolate, either alone or with their immediate household members, contributing to an increase in depression, loneliness, and stress (Robillard et al. 2020). The pandemic also saw a rise in pet adoption as more people were limited to at-home and outdoor activities. (Ho et al. 2021). During these challenging times, people often turned to their pets for comfort and support. Respondents in a HABRI survey specific to the human-animal bond … 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
Sustainable Summer Idea: Be Plastic Free

Sustainable Summer Idea: Be Plastic Free

, , outreach, Programs
Actions of sustainability can be accomplished every day. Throughout the month of July we can “Choose to refuse” single-use plastic. Plastic Free July is a global campaign that aims for people to reduce or eliminate single-use plastic waste. Plastic is a material that can last for hundreds of years, and with so many household items and packaging made of plastic, plastic pollution is a major threat to our oceans and communities. Single-use plastic is convenient and flexible in its use, and that is why it is so very challenging to eliminate completely. That’s why movements like Plastic Free July are important. Plastic Free July provides resources and tips to help you go plastic free. You can start small, reduce your … Continued