From the Director's Desk

Over the summer, library staff reviewed the results of the LibQUAL+ survey. Three items jumped out as “Red Flag” concerns: 1) Modern Equipment; 2) Quiet Space; and 3) Space that inspires study and learning.

Since two of these items fell under the "Library As Place" category, staff developed a marketing campaign entitled Meet Me @ McQuade, which highlights the library as a place to conduct research, study, and learn.

To improve the physical space, the library staff worked on modest improvements that will help in the short-term.

• Defined quiet and group study zones throughout the library
• Painted walls to brighten study areas
• Rearranged furniture to create comfortable locations
• Improved signage
• Created a New Books display in Lobby area
• Fixed auditorium leaks and retiled the floor

Using results of our web usability testing, we made a few changes to the library’s web page. Our virtual space now prominently features:

• A Library Updates Blog
• Journal Finder
• Educational Resources collection webpage
• Media Center webpage
• Request Forms

This is just a start. Please visit McQuade and let us know what you think, as we continue to improve our building, resources and services.

~Barbara Lachance, Library Director

The library will be emphasizing its social side with a new poster campaign and some exciting events.

Poster Campaign

Meet Kristen Ferraro and Jen Salamone, the first stars of our new poster campaign! The posters feature students studying at their favorite place in the library and include some insights into each student’s personality.

Students are encouraged to Lounge @ McQuade in a poster highlighting our new furniture layout and growing inventory of comfortable chairs. Students are always welcome to curl up in a chair or on a couch with a book or laptop.

Exciting Events

Students can enjoy free coffee, hot chocolate, and snacks on Tuesday, October 17th and during other Social Nights throughout the semester. On these special nights, students are invited to take a break from studying, catch up with friends, and refuel without having to leave McQuade. Special giveaways will be offered the first two social nights!

We will also be hosting a Jeopardy Night, which is explained in detail in the article below.

Finally, we’re going to help keep spirits up during finals with a fun filled Pajama Night. Students will be encouraged to study in the comfort of their own pajamas and compete for the top prize of having the best pajamas.

How can I play?

Teams of 3 to 5 contestants are asked to fill out the online registration form on the library website beginning October 1st. Individuals submitting the form will be assigned to a team.

What are the rules of Merrimack’s version of Jeopardy! ?

Prizes to be awarded may include a wireless mouse or gift certificates to local merchants.

Sign up here !

Every September students all across campus come to the library looking for jobs. This is especially true for the Circulation Department, which received over 40 applications this year alone.

This year, as in year’s past, applicants with previous library experience, established customer service skills, and flexible schedules were given priority. Chosen applicants were interviewed by circulation supervisors Chris Condon and Joe St. Germain and many were then offered jobs.

A total of 8 new student workers were hired. These students will be covering the front desk at all hours of the day, ready to assist you or direct you to a staff person who can. They will also be responsible for shelving, retrieving interlibrary loans, answering the phone, and, most importantly, representing the library to current and prospective students alike.

We are proud to welcome the following students to our staff:

• Meghan Glasgow, Junior
• Andrea Pepin, Junior
• Matthew Robertson, Sophmore
• Nicole LaFleur, Freshman
• Brandon Lang, Freshman
• Alana Ngo, Freshman
• Laura Regus, Freshman
• Catherine Soucise, Freshman