In Carbonear, the campus library crew works very hard every day collaborating with our students to create the necessary blend of great service, relevant academic resources, and excellent reference guidance, as well as providing some extras that are both fun and relaxing. We strive to ensure that we are doing everything we can to make our space feel welcoming and inclusive.
To ensure that we are doing our best to accommodate our students we have built up an impressive collection of diverse materials. Over the years, the Library/Learning Commons has acquired numerous popular board games and puzzles, a hefty collection of DVDs, and study rooms equipped with televisions, bookshelves, and DVD players. This is all great stuff, but the newest and best addition has just arrived!
To quote English playwright and poet, William Congreve, “Music hath charms to soothe the savage breast, to soften rocks, or bend a knotted oak.” With this quotation in mind, the Carbonear campus Library/Learning Commons has recently acquired its own vinyl record player. Why? Because we at this library are “hep” to the latest trends and vinyl is now back on the music scene in a big way!
To properly engage with students, our library must be aware of the current trends and their needs. Vinyl records now outsell CDs and are very popular among today’s youth. The acquisition of a record player is a demonstration of our willingness to move with the times. The player also gives us a chance to connect with our students, and they with themselves, creating a positive community.
Along with our player, we’ve added to our new collection three albums, Michael Jackson’s blockbuster album Thriller (the bestselling album of all time), Hot Rocks 1964-1971 by the Rolling Stones, and Let It Be by (the incomparable) The Beatles. In the future, we are hoping to hear from students for suggestions for new albums – (the King) Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry, and Taylor Swift anyone? Perhaps they will suggest something a bit different, like Yoko Ono, Handel or Muddy Waters. All are welcome here!
Of course, students also have the opportunity to bring in their own vinyl and share their music and stories of what their albums mean to them. Our new Vinyl Record Lonely Hearts Club Band Club gives students a unique opportunity to meet and greet and share their favourite music experiences. International students are especially encouraged to bring in works from their cultures and share their wonderful music. We all can come together to listen to the healing vibes of the world’s harmonies.
Our library team does its best to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment as well as provide a fantastic way for students to get to know each other and become more engaged at the college. Studies have shown that music relieves anxiety and stress. Music just makes you feel better. A relaxed, less-stressed student makes for a happier student, and happier students tend to stay. So, from all of us: We care, we share, and we are rock n’ roll!
For information about CNA’s Library Services, visit: here.
Stephen Nolan is the Carbonear Campus Librarian, and he loves to Rock and Roll.
