JSTOR is getting a new look

One of the many databases the Library subscribes to is JSTOR, a repository of high-resolution, scanned images of journal issues and pages as they were originally designed, printed, and illustrated. The journals archived in JSTOR span many disciplines. JSTOR began as an effort to ease the increasing problems faced by libraries seeking to provide adequate shelf space for the long runs of backfiles of scholarly journals. JSTOR is not a current issues database. Because of JSTOR's archival mission, there is a gap, typically from 1 to 5 years, between the most recently published journal issue and the back issues available in JSTOR.

In mid-March, JSTOR will be launching a new interface.

You can preview the redesign here: http://sandbox.jstor.org


If you have questions about JSTOR, just

Deconstructing Tyrone: Tomorrow in the Library

Come to the Library for a Critical Encounters Salon: Deconstructing Tyrone: A New Look at Black Masculinity in the Hip-Hop Generation by Natalie Hopkinson and Natalie Moore (Salon will be facilitated by author, Natalie Moore)

When: Tomorrow! Wednesday, February 27 from 1:30-3:00pm,
Where: Library, 624 S Michigan, 3rd floor

Cell phones (and you!) are welcome in the library

You may have noticed recently that the "No cell phones in the Library" signs have been removed (apologies to anyone who misses the mohawked-suit guy). This isn't an attempt to turn the Library into a giant phone booth, but rather an acknowledgment that we're all adults and know when to use our "inside voices." This applies to face-to-face conversations and sound that may spill over from your headphones, too.

All we ask is that you are courteous and respect those around you...take long or loud conversations out into the stairwell or outside, use a moderate volume for your headphones, keep those ringers on low or vibrate and try to be aware, especially if you're near some quiet study areas, of your surroundings and those around you. And tell a library staff member if things have gotten too loud--we'll do our best to promote an environment that is acceptable for everyone (we'll even shush ourselves if necessary!).

FYI, certain areas of the Library are designated (most of the time) as quiet study areas. They include the east side of the 3rd floor and the east side of the 5th floor.

For better or for worse, the Library of the 21st century is no longer defined by its pervading silence or shushing librarians. Instead, it's a vital, dynamic, sometimes-a-little-noisy place filled with the energy of learning and community. Come be a part of it!

Art of the Library--Tonight!

Don't miss the opening reception for Art of the Library!

It's tonight, Thursday, February 7th, from 5-7pm. Stop by the 3rd Floor of the Library for art, refreshments and fun!

Your Library privileges (and other money saving tips)

Time Out Chicago recently reported on the Interlibrary Loan system (called I-Share) that all Columbia College students, staff and faculty have access to (in other words: Free books!). Take a look at the Book Smarts section in this article.

Questions on how to take advantage of I-Share or other free Library services? Just click