Why Libraries?

The English Department’s student-run blog, The Sturges Script, is excited to announce its theme for Fall 2023: “Why Libraries?” This semester the blog is bringing attention to the importance of libraries–from local libraries to our very own Beeghly Library-The Sturges Script wants to emphasize how impactful libraries are to our communities!  

Library Lovers: Ruth Davies

As you walk through various buildings on campus, have you noticed all the different portraits gazing down on you? Or that the stained glass windows in Slocum depict male historical figures? But who are they, and why are they important? I’d like to bring your attention to one memorable faculty member and Beeghly library patron who has significantly impacted Ohio Wesleyan’s community.

Recommended Reading: Being A Librarian: Expectations Vs Reality

There are many common misconceptions about what it means to be a librarian. For example, some believe that librarians have the answer to every question fathomable. This is not true at all! Librarians are not AI come to life, and “Often, it comes down to simply being human.” To find the answers that patrons need, librarians will use the resources that they have, including fellow staff members, to help answer their patrons’ questions.

Robots, Gadgets and Books, Oh My!

Local libraries offer our communities a range of services. Parents can bring their children to storytime. Teenagers can take part in book clubs and enjoy quiet study rooms. And there are staff who can help with anything from getting a library card to assistance with technology and even taxes. But did you know you can help with events the libraries put on?

Book Worms: Andy Barlett, Delaware Public Library

The children’s departments at public libraries are essential to our communities. They provide a space for learning, exploring, and refuge from the everyday hustle and bustle of daily routines. Visiting the library can become an exciting routine for children of all ages. 

The Children’s Department at the Delaware Public Library has much to offer, from teen programs like Book Clubs, Paws for Reading, and even Lego Club to the perennially popular story time four times a week.

Jennah Nahhas (’24): Alexandria Quarantined

Each slot of thought reeks of rot,
My brain of bounded books.
They cordoned off my turquoise veins
But down my brow still looks

On students hiding from the rain,
On squirrels traversing concrete plains.

And as a hen her heavy wings
Protects her smallest young,
So too I my concrete shade
Provide to children flung

Outside my lettered marrow,
Beyond my buzzing thoughts.…

Famous Libraries: The Vatican Library

The Vatican Library, located inside the Vatican Palace in Rome, Italy, is among the oldest libraries in the world. In fact, it’s so old that its history is divided into five periods: the Pre-Lateran, Lateran, Avignon, Pre-Vatican, and Vatican period. All of the periods span over nearly 600 years.  When the Vatican Library first opened in 1448, it held over 3,500 works of literature, which made it the most extensive library in the Western world to date.Â