The start of the academic year is here with all of its excitement, energy, and fun. Along with the thrill of new classes, new subjects, and new ideas comes hard work, long hours, not enough sleep, and stress. Practicing good self-care becomes essential in these hectic times. So in the months ahead remember to take a walk in the park, savor a cup of tea, read a fun book, play Monopoly, breath deeply and do whatever you need to do to take care of yourself…take time to smell the roses!

The library has a variety of books in our collection that offer good ideas on self-care so be sure and have a look at our WU Reads Reading Guide.

“When you recover or discover something that nourishes your soul and brings joy, care enough about yourself to make room for it in your life.” – Jean Shinoda Bolen

The beginning of the new academic year is here. That means we are enjoying the arrival of a whole new litter of Bearcats. It is an exciting time for all but particularly for our first year students. Many will be living away from their families for the first time, meeting lots of new people, establishing new routines, transitioning from high school student to college student, etc. It is enough to make your head whirl just thinking about all the changes! The library is always here to help with this adjustment and in anticipation of the fall, why not check out a book dealing with first year students or college in general?

Have a look at our WU Reads Reading Guide.

Over the last several years, the number of farmers’ markets has been growing steadily across the country. It seems like every city and town has some sort of market and Salem is no exception! Outdoor farmers’ markets are open three days a week at three different locations during the summer/fall and a small indoor Saturday market is open year round.  The markets offer a bounty of fresh, healthy produce, a variety of fabulous food carts, interesting crafts, and a great opportunity to support the local economy.  To find out more about farmers’ markets in Oregon, check out the Oregon Farmers Market Association.

As a tribute to farmers’ markets everywhere, we’re highlighting a selection of books related to the markets on our WU Reads Reading Guide.  Take a look!

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Pride Month is celebrated each year in June to honor the 1969 Stonewall riots in New York City. These spontaneous demonstrations by the LGBT community occurred in protest over police raids at the Stonewall Inn, a well-known gay club in Manhattan. The Stonewall riots are considered by many to be the tipping point for the Gay Liberation Movement in the United States. “The purpose of the commemorative month is to recognize the impact that lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals have had on history locally, nationally, and internationally.” – Library of Congress, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Pride Month

As a tribute to LGBT Pride Month, we’re highlighting a selection of recent books related to the LGBT community on our WU Reads Reading Guide.  Take a look!

Graduation season is upon us so it is time for the graduates to be thankful that they successfully made it through the labyrinth. And to be thankful for parents, families, friends, professors and all those who helped them earn that degree. The tassel is worth the hassle! In honor of graduation and gratitude, check out a few related books listed on our Reading Guide.

You are educated. Your certification is in your degree. You may think of it as the ticket to the good life. Let me ask you to think of an alternative. Think of it as your ticket to change the world. — Tom Brokaw

Congratulations, graduates!