Tag Archives: programming

Planning for Play: Models for Celebrating Ludomusicology Discourse in Academic Libraries

May 19, 2026Peer-Reviewed Articleevents, ludomusicology, music, programming, video gamesEditor

Sabino Fernandez, Coordinator of Music Acquisitions & Processing, the University of North Texas

Steven S. Sellers, Music Metadata and Digitization Librarian, the University of North Texas

Kristin Wolski, Music Information Literacy and Outreach Librarian, the University of North Texas

Abstract

Research about video game music and sound design, often referred to as ludomusicology, is an emerging field of academic study that has experienced a surge of activity in the last two decades which correlates to the popularity of video games as a form of media. Despite this growing interest, there is a gap in library resources related to the field including scores, soundtracks, literature, and other materials. To meet the demand of this relatively new field of scholarship, the authors of this article build on the work of researchers like Karen Collins and Tim Summers and share their strategies for promoting and supporting video game music resources in the library of a large R1 research institute. Video game music is an important part of culture and has a worthy place in academic libraries to be researched and enjoyed, and the methods in this case study discussed are based on real world problems, solutions, and examples that the authors and their collaborators encountered when embarking on this project. The following strategies describe the practical steps taken by the University of North Texas Music Library to address resource gaps and promote the collection, serving as a template for other types of libraries and learning environments.
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Libraries as Places Where Stories Begin: Building A Writer-in-Residence Program at UBC Library

March 21, 2026Essaycommunity engagement, events, literature, programming, programs, writingEditor

By Allan Cho
Community Engagement & Partnerships Librarian
University of British Columbia Library

Introduction

The mission of academic libraries has been to steward literary archives, preserving the manuscripts, correspondence, and records that underpin scholarly research. Yet they have been less visible as spaces where literature is actively created. In this essay, I explore how the University of British Columbia (UBC) Library’s Writer-in-Residence program reimagines the academic library as a collaborative space where community engagement, literary practice, and research intersect. By embedding practicing writers on campus and in the broader community, the program supports emerging voices and positions the library not only as a repository of cultural memory but also as an active site of literary creation.

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Championing Change: The EDI Scholars-in-Residence Program at UBC Library

October 21, 2024Peer-Reviewed Articleacademic libraries, Canada, diversity, Equity, Inclusion, programming, University of British ColumbiaEditor

By Allan Cho, Community Engagement Librarian, University of British Columbia (UBC) Library

Lisabelle Tan, Master’s in Library and Information Studies (MLIS) Candidate, University of British Columbia, School of Information

Abstract

The University of British Columbia (UBC) Library’s EDI Scholars in Residence Program, initiated in 2022, addresses equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in academia. This innovative program fosters inclusivity by providing scholars from historically marginalized backgrounds with research opportunities and access to library resources. The article explores the program’s genesis, principles, and impact, highlighting its significance in dismantling systemic barriers. A review of EDI concepts and institutional strategies underscores the importance of nuanced approaches. By promoting collaboration and research, the program exemplifies a transformative initiative in advancing EDI within academic libraries and higher education institutions.

Keywords: Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, Academic Libraries, Programming
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Poetry, Pizza, and Pandemics: How an Academic Library Successfully Moved a Popular In-Person Student Engagement Program Online

February 9, 2022Peer-Reviewed ArticleCOVID-19, events, online programming, outreach, pandemic, poetry, programming, student engagementEditor

Stephanie Evers Ard
Social Sciences Librarian
Marx Library
University of South Alabama

Abstract

When the COVID-19 pandemic forced most libraries to move their services online, the University of South Alabama’s Marx Library was quick to respond. The library already provided robust online services, and library workers understood their crucial role in providing remote academic support to faculty and students. However, the Marx Library also recognized that providing social support was just as essential. This article describes how the Marx Library Student Engagement Committee rallied to provide students with a much-needed sense of community by developing online programming–specifically, by moving the library’s very popular semesterly “Poetry & Pizza” open mic events online. The author details how the library successfully planned two fully virtual poetry events by identifying and collaborating with relevant campus departments and community organizations, adapting available technology to create a safe and comfortable place for student expression, and drawing upon a strong social media presence. The author also evaluates the Student Engagement Committee’s successes, reflects on the problems they encountered, and offers suggestions for other libraries hoping to plan similar online events.

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