Wouldn’t it be cool if you could make a difference both on and off campus? Are you interested in being a part of fundraising events and suggesting changes to the library? If you answered yes, then the Student Library Advisory Board (SLAB) is for you!
SLAB is a group of students that recommends changes they’d like to see take place in the library to the dean of the library, Ann Watson. For example, if you think the library should have more books about founders of psychology, then maybe you should join SLAB and make that suggestion, though anyone is welcome to make a suggestion at any time.
Not only does the Student Library Advisory Board suggest new books to add to the library along with various other changes, SLAB also holds charity and fundraising events to support people in the local community and beyond.
Recently, SLAB held an event called Food for Fines. For this event, students could pay off their library fines of up to $30 by bringing in canned, non-perishable food for those in need. During this event, SLAB brought in approximately 240 pounds of food for the Jefferson County Community Ministries Food Pantry.
SLAB also sponsors the Coffee and Cookies event during finals week. SLAB students bake and serve fresh cookies near the public services desk along with coffee, hot chocolate and tea to help students get through finals week.
SLAB even took part in the Shep-or-Treat event last year. Students in the program dressed up as characters from the “The Wizard of Oz.” Hundreds of children were treated to cupcakes, cookies and snacks that SLAB members asked merchants to donate.
Theresa Smith, the public service manager at the Scarborough Library says that currently there are about 15 students who participate with Student Library Advisory Board, but they would love to see more students get involved!
Students who are interested in being a part of SLAB should pick up a pamphlet at the public service desk in the library lobby and fill out the form. Smith says that SLAB will contact the student and let them know when and where meetings will be held.
Although it isn’t set in stone, Smith reports that SLAB typically holds weekly meetings on Wednesdays at 3:30 p.m.
For students looking to get involved in the Shepherdstown community, the Student Library Advisory Board is a perfect opportunity. Community participation is an integral part of Shepherd University, and students looking to continue the legacy of impressive community service should definitely consider SLAB.
The Shepherd University mission statement says, “We meet the needs of this community through assessment, development, and implementation of innovative programs and initiatives.” The Student Library Advisory Board provides many of these innovative programs and initiatives that benefit many students and community members alike.
“Students should be interested in the program,” Smith says, “because making a difference is important. People love the library and students should have a voice in what takes place here.”