All About Yes

Posted on February 18, 2021 by Nicole Sherman

College is a time of self-discovery, and for many of you it will be a time and a place where you explore your sexuality. But a truly important part of that journey is understanding consent.

GIF of Moira Rose, from TV show Schitt's Creek, saying

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign has an Affirmative Consent Policy, which means they define what consent is, and, very importantly, what consent is NOT. In short, consent is a freely given and ENTHUSIASTIC YES to EVERY STEP of sexual contact.

Things to remember about consent:

Consent can be taken back at ANY time.
A “yes” to some things doesn’t automatically mean a yes to everything.
Consent can only be given by someone who fully understands their actions. Someone under the influence of drugs, alcohol, someone under the legal age, or someone unconscious or asleep can’t give consent.
It is not consent if the person feels threatened or afraid of saying “no.”
It is not consent if the person said “no” many times, but was asked until they were worn down or guilted and eventually said “yes.”
Just because someone doesn’t say “no,” does not mean they mean “yes.”

GIF of Keenan Thompson enthusiastically saying

When taking part in any sexual activity you need clear consent. If your partner seems quiet or not into it, just stop and talk to them. Proceeding with sexual activity without consent is called sexual assault.

And consent is sexy! Consent is the best way to know that everyone is comfortable and having a good time. Consent is the key to exploring your sexuality in a safe, respectful manner. How better to get to know your own preferences than to explore in a culture of consent?

GIF of Thor yelling

Much like other campuses around the country, we are still growing a clear culture of consent on our campus. Studies show that sexual assault does happen on campuses, and it happens at higher rates to women and transgender or gender non-confomring individuals. But that does not mean it doesn’t happen to men either! Sexual assault is defined by the Univeristy of Illinois as “any sexual act directed against another person, without the consent of the victim, including instances where the victim is incapable of giving consent.” Assault can happen to anyone by anyone. This is why understanding exactly what consent is and what it is not is so important.

Don’t think it’s just sexual contact that’s wrong. Included in the Sexual Misconduct policy at Illinois is Sexual Harassment. Anything that falls under the Sexual Misconduct policy is subject to discipline by the university.

Sexual assault is NEVER the victim’s fault. If you have been affected by assault, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign has resources available to help. We Care can connect you with the right people to report an incident, who to talk to about what happened, and they also provide prevention training. They’ll listen, respect, and believe you. They also have resources for friends and family of assault survivors with simple steps to help you be there for your loved one.

If you want to build a culture of consent on campus, the first place to start is with your friends and partners. Establish clear communication and consent for any touching, even hugs! Be there for the people around you, respecting them and listening if they have something to tell you. And always remember there are people here at Illinois who are available to help. A culture of consent isn’t something that will happen on its own. Each of us must do our part to make our campus a safe, supportive place to learn and grow.

GIF of Rihanna saying

Resources:

AAU Climate Survey on Sexual Assault and Sexual Misconduct (2015). Association of American Universities (AAU). (2015, September 3). https://www.aau.edu/key-issues/aau-climate-survey-sexual-assault-and-sexual-misconduct-2015.

Add Consent to Your Teen’s College Checklist. National Sexual Violence Resource Center. https://www.nsvrc.org/blogs/add-consent-your-teens-college-checklist.

At illinois we care. https://wecare.illinois.edu/help/support/.

Her Campus (2018, April 30). Creating a Culture of Consent on Your Campus. womenshealth.gov. https://www.womenshealth.gov/blog/campus-culture-consent.

Human Resources. Sexual Misconduct – Campus Administrative Manual. https://cam.illinois.edu/policies/hr-79r/.

Written by: Maurissa

Black History Month

Posted on February 4, 2021 by Ryan Andrew Reitmeier

As Black History Month dawns, as a woman of color, I lament the shortness of this month. However, February was chosen for specific reasons, in spite of its shortness. February was chosen by Carter G. Woodson to honor the first Republican President, Abraham Lincoln, and one of the most famous Abolitionist and a former America’s Most Photographed, Frederick Douglass to honor the birthdays of both men.

Despite the shortness of the month, Black History is everywhere. In lightbulbs, fun summer toys, Washington, D.C., music, fashion, language, and more. In fact, this is one of my favorite times of the year as I get to learn something new about the contribution of Black people to the fabric of the American experiment.

As Former President Barack Obama stated:

… From our earliest days, black history has been American history. We’re the slaves who quarried the stone to build this White House; the soldiers who fought for our nation’s independence, who fought to hold this union together, who fought for freedom of others around the world. We’re the scientists and inventors who helped unleash American innovation. We stand on the shoulders not only of the giants in this room, but also countless, nameless heroes who marched for equality and justice for all of us. It’s about the lived, shared experience of all African Americans, high and low, famous and obscure, and how those experiences have shaped and challenged and ultimately strengthened America.

“Shared and lived experiences,” forged on paper to challenge societal viewpoints, are present in all media forms. Literature reflects the current environment of our nation. Many books now feature individuals of color as main characters or are written by authors of color, a major change from decades past. And this inspires many children to become published and speak about what is important to them and why Their Black is Beautiful. For example, an eleven-year-old Black student, Aiden Taylor, has become a published author in the pandemic. His book, Me and My Afro, discusses the importance of his hair to his identity.

Hair is a large part of many people’s identity. For many people of color, particularly Black people, it can often become a fight against societal oppression. It is only in the last five years that individuals of color in the military could wear their hair in braids or dreads without reprimand. However, this is still a pervasive problem that many students face in schools, competitions, and beyond.

Shared experiences have shaped this campus. Illinois has a rich history of Black cultural experience and activism on this campus. William Walter Smith was the first Black student to graduate from UIUC in 1900 with a B.A. in Literature and Arts (he also received a B.S. in Civil Engineering in 1907). Maudelle Tanner Brown Bausfield was the first woman in 1906 with Hilda Lawson following in her footsteps with a PhD in 1939.

Kappa Alpha Psi’s second chapter, Beta, was founded at the University of Illinois on February 8^th, 1913. This makes Kappa Alpha Psi the oldest Black fraternity on campus. In the 1960s, students lobbied the university to admit and enroll more students of color, which ended with over two hundred students being arrested. In 2015, Being Black at Illinois lobbied the university to re-instate the Project 500, the 1960s diversity initiative. Former students

Black History is everyone’s history. As Kamala Harris, the first woman of color to become the Vice-President of the United States of America said in her election night victory speech, “I may be the first, but won’t be the last.” William Walter Smith, Maudelle Tanner Brown Bausfield, and Hilda Lawson may have been the pioneers, but they were not the last. Their legacies have allowed many Black students to attend and enrich Illinois and their home communities as evident by independent artists and educators, Mother Nature, whose experiences on campus led them to use hip hop to organize communities. The contributions made by many Black students have shaped Illinois into the future, lifting every voice.

If you want to know more about Black history at University of Illinois and beyond, please check out these sites and cities (this is not a comprehensive list):

The DuSable Museum of African American History– Chicago

National Civil Rights Museum – Memphis

African American Museum– Washington D.C.

National Center for Civil and Human Rights Museum– Atlanta

National Black Music Museum– Nashville

University of Illinois, Archives – Urbana-Champaign

Written By: Simone Stone

References Cited

Atrl.net. (2016, October 18). Black Soul Train GIF. Giphy. http://gph.is/2esq9V3

Books by and/or about Black, Indigenous, and People of Color 2018- (2020, October 27). Cooperative Children’s Book Center. University of Wisconsin-Madison, School of Education. https://ccbc.education.wisc.edu/literature-resources/ccbc-diversity-statistics/books-by-about-poc-fnn/

Harris, K.(2020, November 7). Vice President-Elect Kamala Harris Addresses the Nation [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bsrzIcTwtMo

Into Action (2021, January 25). Black Lives Matter BLM GIF. Giphy. https://gph.is/g/4oW8jyJ

Into Action (2021, January 25). Black Lives Matter BLM GIF. Giphy. https://gph.is/g/aXVN0YR

Jean-Philippe, M. (2021, Jan 7). The Reason Black History Month is in February. Oprah Magazine. Retrieved from MSN 2021/2/1.https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/the-reason-black-history-month-is-in-february/ar-BB1cyJ9P?li=BBnb7Kz

Johnson, P.K. (2016, December 27). Frederick Douglass was the Most Photographed American of the 19^th Century. NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/news/nbcblk/frederick-douglass-always-ready-his-close-n517391

Kappa Alpha Psi Celebrates its History as Illinois’ Oldest Black Fraternity. (2012, February 8). The Daily Illini. Retrieved 2021, February 1. https://dailyillini.com/uncategorized/2012/02/08/kappa-alpha-psi-celebrates-its-history-as-illinoisae-oldest-black-fraternity/

Kindy, D. (2019, June 21). The Accidental Invention of the Super Soaker. Smithsonian Magazine. https://www.smithsonianmag.com/innovation/accidental-invention-super-soaker-180972428/

Keene, L. (n.d.). Benjamin Banneker: the Black Tobacco Farmer who the Presidents Couldn’t Ignore. The White House Historical Association. https://www.whitehousehistory.org/benjamin-banneker

Mirza, F. (2015, February 4). #BeingBlackatIllinois discusses solutions to African-American student decline. The Daily Illini. https://dailyillini.com/news/2015/02/04/beingblackatillinois-discusses-solutions-to-african-american-student-decline/

National Museum of African American History and Culture. (2021). A People’s Journey, A Nation’s Story. https://nmaahc.si.edu/

National Center for Civil Rights at the Lorraine Motel (2021). Education and Interpretation. https://www.civilrightsmuseum.org/learn

National Center for Civil and Human Rights Museum. (2021). About the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. https://www.civilandhumanrights.org/about-the-center/

National Museum of African-American Music. (2020). History. https://nmaam.org/

Peters, A.M. (2020, August 21). One Proposal for Improving Army Inclusivity for Women of Color: Update Hair Regulations. Military.com. https://www.military.com/daily-news/opinions/2020/08/21/one-proposal-improving-army-inclusivity-women-of-color-update-hair-regulations.html

Scholastic. (n.d.) Latimer, L. Culture and Change: Black History in America. Famous African-American Inventors. http://teacher.scholastic.com/activities/bhistory/inventors/latimer.htm

Smith, M. (2021, February 1). 11-Year-Old Boy Writes Book Me and My Afro to Help Kids’ ‘Love the Way They Are.’ People. https://people.com/human-interest/boy-11-writes-book-me-and-my-afro-about-self-love/

Smithsonian National Museum of African-American History and Culture (2017, September 28). YouTube Faces GIF. Giphy. http://gph.is/2fThUTW

Straw, J., Swain, E., Prom, C. (2003, June). Guide to African-American Research Resources. University Archives at University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign. https://archives.library.illinois.edu/guides/afamer.php#bkmark1

Stubbs, R. (2019, April 17). A wrestler was forced to cut his dreadlocks before a match. His town is still looking for answers. Washington Post. https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2019/04/17/wrestler-was-forced-cut-his-dreadlocks-before-match-his-town-is-still-looking-answers/

Student Life and Cultural Archival Program (2010). Project 500 and the Struggle for Campus Diversity at the University of Illinois. Oral History Projects at the Student Life and Cultural Archival Program. https://archives.library.illinois.edu/slcold/researchguides/oralhistory/project500/

“The Talk”: The Conversation That Sparked a Movement. (2019, January 1). My Black is Beautiful. https://www.mbib.com/en-us/redefining-black/the-talk-conversation-that-sparked-a-movement

Tse, K. (2021, January 29). Independent Media Center catches up with Mother Nature. The Daily Illini. https://dailyillini.com/features/2021/01/29/independent-media-center-catches-up-with-mother-nature/

The White House Office of the Press Secretary (2016, February 18). Remarks by the President at Black History Month Reception. Obama White House Archives. https://obamawhitehouse.archives.gov/the-press-office/2016/02/18/remarks-president-black-history-month-reception

Pet De-Stress Event

Posted on December 4, 2020 by Ryan Andrew Reitmeier

Finals season is upon us once again, and this year– somehow– it’s more stressful than ever. But never fear, the UGL is here to help! No, we can’t take your final exams for you (although we do have study spaces available for all your last-minute cramming needs). What we can do is provide something just as wonderful as that feeling of turning in your last assignment: puppies! For one afternoon, library employees and some of our campus partners are (virtually) opening their homes and sharing their adorable puppies with the world. Word on the street is there will also be at least one horse in attendance. We’re not saying it’s Lil’ Sebastian, but we’re not saying it’s NOT Lil’ Sebastian… Here are just a few of our featured guests:

(Phoebe) (Rue and Indy) (Elmo and Viago)

“When and how can I see these marvelous creatures?!” you may be asking yourself. Like every other event this semester, our de-stress fest will take place via Zoom. It will run from 1-4 PM on December 10th, the first day of reading period. In addition to live footage of pets performing tricks and goofing around, there will be short presentations from campus figures such as Professor Jane Desmond (with canine companion Shanti) discussing the relationship between pets and stress levels and UIPD Chief Alice Cary with therapy dog Archie.

If you’d like to see the line-up of events, or just peruse more puppy pics, check out the event guide! You can register here if you’d like to stop by, or even stay for the whole afternoon. See you there!

Written by: Hannah

Edited by: Ryan

Books That Will Almost Make You Want to Stop Watching TikTok…

Posted on November 20, 2020 by Nicole Sherman

As the year comes to a close and it somehow still feels like March, we thought you might need some books that fill you with joy and keep you entertained. It’s quite the understatement to say that 2020 has been a strange year, and we’ve probably all spent a record-breaking number of hours staring at screens for work, school, and entertainment. You know when you scroll through TikTok for 15 minutes but somehow two hours passed? Here are some books that will make you feel the same way!

Click on each book title for links to access through the University Library, or check out your local public library.

The Wangs vs. the World by Jade Chang

The Wang family is super wealthy. At least, they were. When they lose their fortune, the Wangs pack their few remaining possessions into an old car and drive from California to New York. Filled with humor, charm, and a healthy dose of awkward reality, this book will also fill the void of Schitt’s Creek being over.

To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before by Jenny Hahn

Whether or not you’ve seen the Netflix film adaptation, this book is worth the read. Lara Jean Song has written a letter to every boy she’s ever loved, and they’re all tucked away in a secret box. Somehow, her letters get mailed and now she’s being confronted by all her past crushes that she may or may not really be over.

You Should See Me in a Crown by Leah Johnson
(not available through UIUC, link goes to Champaign Public Library)

While everyone in her small town is completely obsessed with prom, Liz Lighty just wants to escape to college. But winning prom queen comes with scholarship money, so even though she thinks she’s too poor, too Black, and too awkward for her classmates, Liz decides to do whatever it takes to win that prize. She doesn’t like the spotlight, but she does like spending time with the new girl who is also running for prom queen…

Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan

If you love dramatic reality shows, this book has that same addictive, guilty-pleasure feeling. Rachel Chu agrees to spend the summer in Singapore with her boyfriend, Nick, but he fails to mention that his family is outrageously wealthy and their home is more like a palace. Since Nick is one of the island’s most eligible bachelors, Rachel finds herself with a target on her back in this world of gloriously insane wealth. After you read the book, there’s also a film adaptation!

When We Were Vikings by Andrew MacDonald

Zelda is a 21-year-old Viking enthusiast born with fetal alcohol syndrome. She lives with her older brother, Gert, and traverses life’s difficulties by adhering to some simple rules and ideals. After finding out that Gert has some questionable methods of making money, Zelda embarks on a heartwarming quest and discovers what makes a hero.

Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston

For a non-stop joyride, look no further than this novel about the son of America’s first female president. Alex Claremont-Diaz is charming and popular, in fact, he gets along with everyone – except for England’s Prince Henry. The two long-time nemeses make international news after causing a commotion at a royal wedding, and now they have to stage a fake friendship to do some damage control. The two have more in common than they realized, and their fake friendship evolves in a way that could have serious consequences for them and their nations.

Pumpkinheads by Rainbow Rowell

This graphic novel is filled with fall vibes, friendship, and fun. Deja and Josiah have worked together every fall at the world’s best pumpkin patch, and this is their last shift together before they head to separate colleges. They decide to turn it into an epic night, eat all the best snacks, and finally talk to the girl Josiah has been mooning over for the past three years. Finding the girl isn’t as simple as they expect, but Deja and Josiah find lots of adventure along the way.

We hope you enjoy these books, let us know what you think!

Written and edited by: Nicole

Dystopian Novels That Don’t Feel Like Fiction…

Posted on November 14, 2020 by Nicole Sherman

Escapism is great. Many of us have been watching a lot of Great British Baking Show and playing Animal Crossing through the pandemic. But sometimes, in the face of crises, it can feel satisfying to watch or read something that reflects what’s happening around us. Often, we are drawn to fiction that vocalizes something we have experienced but have never been able to fully understand or explain. Maybe that’s why these books feel so comforting and exciting right now. The following novels are all fictional, of course, but their apocalyptic and dystopian plots resonant a little bit more than usual. If you’re looking to pick up novels exploring what it’s like to live through pandemics, climate change, and political turmoil, check out some of these titles.

Click on each book title for links to access through the University Library, or check out your local public library.

Black Wave by Michelle Tea (2015)

This apocalypse novel takes place in California in 1999, but in a version of 1999 where the world is officially ending in a year because the environment is too messed up. Michelle, the main character, leaves the San Francisco Queer scene for L.A., trying to escape drug problems and failed relationships. But with only a year left, people begin dreaming collectively, and the lines of reality are increasingly blurred. Somehow, this book will quell your existential dread about climate change, at least temporarily.

Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler (1993)

Written by science fiction icon Octavia Butler, Parable of the Sower takes place in a dystopian version of California in the 2020s. The state is plagued by fires, water shortages, drugs, lack of jobs, and violence. Meanwhile, teenager Lauren Olamina struggles to survive and to protect the people she loves while living with hyperempathy, a condition causing her to feel the pain of others. Meanwhile, she develops a new religion she hopes can save humanity. Needless to say, there is a whole lot going on in this book, and its iconic for a reason.

The Last Man by Mary Shelley (1826)

Frankenstein author Mary Shelley’s dystopian apocalypse novel is set in the late 21^st century after a plague has destroyed humanity. The plague first hits warmer regions of the world, sending refugees north to England. But eventually it spreads and kills almost everyone, along with other climate disasters like floods and extreme weather. Eventually, the narrator is the only human left on Earth, and the book is ultimately about isolation, something many of us have become more familiar with lately.

Red Clocks by Leni Zumas (2018)

In this near-future dystopian novel, abortion and in-vitro fertilization have become illegal in the United States with the Personhood Amendment, which grants rights to fetuses. The book follows five women living through the consequences of this legislation. If you liked The Handmaids Tale, this one’s for you.

The Fifth Season by N. K. Jemisin (2015)

Another one about climate change. This sci-fi novel takes place on a planet with one supercontinent and a fifth season that hits every few centuries, bringing devastating climate change along with it. Other planetary woes include a complex and oppressive caste system and a collapsing empire. Meanwhile, a woman tries to rescue her daughter as the world falls apart around her.

Zone One by Colson Whitehead (2011)

Written by Colson Whitehead, author of The Underground Railroad, Zone One is another novel about a pandemic. In this one, the virus is finally receding, but the zombies it created are still roaming Manhattan. Civilians team up to try to rid the island of zombies and resettle the city.

Severance by Ling Ma (2018)

Candance Chen is a millennial and a first-generation American living in New York City during a pandemic of Shen Fever, a fungal infection originating in China. Her boring office job is replaced with a cross-country trek for survival. It’s a science fiction satire of capitalism, with some eerie similarities to the pandemic we are all living through.

A Song for a New Day by Sarah Pinsker (2019)

In this science fiction novel, the government has made large public gatherings illegal due to virus outbreaks and terror attacks. Luce Cannon was a successful musician until concerts were banned, but she still plays illegally. Rosemary Laws, on the other hand is used to doing things virtually, until she goes out scouting musicians for her new job. This one isn’t exactly dystopian, but music lovers missing live shows will appreciate this story about sharing art and connecting in difficult times.

If you need a break from reality after reading these almost-real-life novels, check back next week for books that are easy to escape into!

Written by: Izzy

Edited by: Nicole

National Native American Heritage Month at the University of Illinois

Posted on November 8, 2020 by Ryan Andrew Reitmeier

I would like to note that I am writing this blog post from Urbana-Champaign, and I recognize and acknowledge that I am on the lands of the Peoria, Kaskaskia, Piankashaw, Wea, Miami, Mascoutin, Odawa, Sauk, Mesquaki, Kickapoo, Potawatomi, Ojibwe, and Chickasaw Nations. These lands were the traditional territory of these Native Nations prior to their forced removal; these lands continue to carry the stories of these Nations and their struggles for survival and identity.

As a land-grant institution, the University of Illinois has a particular responsibility to acknowledge the peoples of these lands, as well as the histories of dispossession that have allowed for the growth of this institution for the past 150 years. We are also obligated to reflect on and actively address these histories and the role that this university has played in shaping them. This acknowledgement and the centering of Native peoples is a start as we move forward for the next 150 years.

November is National Native American Heritage Month!

This month began in 1990 after centuries of advocacy by Native communities across the United States. Traditionally, this would be a month highlighting the vibrancy and power of Native culture and history through public events, conferences, and celebrations. Of course, the words “public events” probably send a shiver down your spine this year, but that doesn’t mean people across the country aren’t getting creative to commemorate this month with joy and solemnity. To find out more about national events and celebrations, you can visit Native American Heritage Month’s website.

Here at the University of Illinois, we have an incredible wealth of resources concerning both the history of Native people in the United States and locally. I’ve included just a few below to get you started, and I invite you to explore not just this month, but over all your years here at Illinois. Without learning about the history and validating the experiences of Native communities (communities that have long been forcefully silenced and discriminated against), we cannot truly call ourselves celebrants of diversity.

Native American House

The Native American House (located at 1206 W Nevada St. in Urbana) is a wonderful community. Their mission is to “serve as a support and resource center for Native American students, including all students and the campus.” Throughout the year NAH will have events and programming dedicated to both Native students and any student looking to learn more about Native American history and life. Make sure to like their Facebook page or follow their Twitter for updates on the events they are holding for Native American Heritage Month!

American Indian Studies

If you really enjoy these resources and really want to dive into learning about the Native American experience, consider adding an American Indian Studies minor to your resume! While there are several classes offered by the department, many different disciplines (film, anthropology, history, religion, and more!) offer courses that are crosslisted under AIS. During Native American Heritage Month, AIS is hosting several speakers, with talks ranging from different kinds of research on Indigenous culture to understanding the effect of COVID-19 on Native communities. You can find out more on their website.

Library resources

The UIUC library system has several different guides to help students looking to find resources on Native life and culture. The first one, linked here, is from SSHEL (Social Sciences, Health, and Education Library), and it provides a fantastic overview of where to find scholarly articles, books, periodicals, and other types of resources concerning Native Americans. If you’re looking for information related to the relationship between the national government and Native communities, our Government Information Services Library has its own guide dedicated to that topic. We also have books for a young adult or children’s audience; check out this list for inspiration and see what’s available here at our library!

And while you’re on the library website, check out books written by some our Native Faculty members. You can check out Jenny L. Davis’s 2018 book, Talking Indian: Identity and Language Revitalization in the Chickasaw Renaissance, from SSHEL, or read Dustin Tahmahkera’s book Tribal Television: Viewing Native People in Sitcoms, online through the library website. And that’s just two examples; there are many others! For more information on these or other library resources related to Native culture, contact our subject specialist Cindy Ingold (cingold@illinois.edu).

Written by: Aine
Posted by: Ryan

Not-To-Miss Book-To-Screen

Posted on October 30, 2020 by Maurissa

Welcome to Fall 2020! Chilly weather is setting in. The days are getting shorter, the nights are getting longer, and you can’t go ANYWHERE because of the pandemic! But fear not, (or perhaps fear is what you’re after?) there are a bunch of new book to screen adaptations that can get you through the spooky nights. Read a book, watch a movie, and compare! Here’s a list of some fantastic stories that started as books that can soon grace your screen.

Death on the Nile by Agatha Christie

A classic Agatha Christie whodunit set on a cruise ship on the Nile river. Inspector Poirot follows the clues to try to find a killer.

The film version is scheduled to be released in theaters on December 18th, starring A-listers like Gal Godot, Annette Benning, Letitia Wright, and Russel Brand.

You can request a copy of the book or audiobook through the UIUC Libraries or the Champaign Public Library (or, for remote students, your local public library). You can also purchase from your favorite bookseller.

Rebecca by Daphne duMaurier

A brooding thriller about a young woman who marries a rich widow and goes to his large manor as his new bride. But once there she can’t help but feel like his deceased wife hasn’t really left.

The 1940 Alfred Hitchcock version is ICONIC, but Netflix is now streaming a new version starring Armie Hammer, Lily James, and Kristen Scott Thomas.

A copy of the e-book is available through Hathi Trust via the UIUC Libraries or you can get a copy at the Champaign Public Library (or, for remote students, your local public library). You can also purchase from your favorite bookseller.

The Witches by Roald Dahl

Who says only kids can read a kid’s book? The Witches is a fabulously fun and sometimes freaky story about a boy and his grandmother staying in a hotel during a witch’s convention. And these witches HATE children. From the same mind that brought us James and the Giant Peach and Matilda.

HBOMax released a film adaptation on October 22nd. Starring Anne Hathaway, Octavia Spencer, Stanley Tucci, and directed by Robert Zemeckis. This book to film adaptation is another case where there’s a classic movie version (1990’s The Witches starring Angelica Houston) which is tough competition. The Witches (1990) is currently streaming on Netflix providing the possibility of a read-watch-watch and compare!

You can request a copy of the book through the UIUC Libraries or the Champaign Public Library (or, for remote students, your local public library). You can also purchase from your favorite bookseller.

The Turn of the Screw by Henry James

The Turn of the Screw is actually a novella, so it’s one of the shorter ones on the list. First published in 1898, the language is definitely that of its time. If you’re looking for shocking, graphic horror, this might feel underwhelming, but the brooding atmosphere is perfect for a spooky season read. It is written as a manuscript from a young woman who accepts a position as a governess in the English countryside for two young children. Isolated, she puts all her energy into protecting the children. But who is protecting her?

There have been many adaptations of The Turn of the Screw, including a film version from earlier this year called The Turning (2020). The newest is from the creators of The Haunting of Hill House on Netflix (also a book to screen adaptation!) and it’s called The Haunting of Bly Manor. Like Hill House, this adaptation isn’t an exact replica of the book plot, but rather a base for the story. You’ll love seeing how the writers wove in details from the book!

Available online as audiobook through the UIUC libraries, or a book can be requested through the Champaign Public Library (or, for remote students, your local public library). You can also purchase from your favorite bookseller.

Dune by Frank Herbert

Dune is one of the most beloved science fiction novels of all time. A man, Paul Atreides, leads nomadic tribes in a battle to control the desert planet Arrakis. There’s political intrigue, a resource vital for interstellar travel, and giant worms. The book is lengthy, but you won’t regret delving into this universe.

The movie adaptation starring Timothee Chalamet and Zendaya was slated for December 2020 but has been pushed back until December 2021. Though a bummer, it will give you time to get through this hefty book and also perhaps check out some of the sequels. There is also a classic movie version from 1984 directed by David Lynch that’s worth a watch and might just hold you over for the newest version.

Available as an e-book and audiobook through the UIUC libraries and through the Champaign Public Library (or, for remote students, your local public library). You can also purchase from your favorite bookseller.

You’d be surprised how many movies are adaptations of books. Reading a book and watching its movie counterpart is a great way to fill the long, chilly nights. Suggest a mini book-club to your friends, or bring your thoughts to our monthly Bring Your Own Book Club meetings! Though we can’t all pile onto a couch for a movie night, you can always have a great, socially-distant conversation about what you did or didn’t like about the books, the movies, the shows, all of it! Let us know in the comments if you’ve checked any of these out, or if there’s another upcoming adaptation that you’re excited for!

Written by Maurissa Myers O’Connor

Get Out the Vote: UGL Edition!

Posted on September 30, 2020 by Ryan Andrew Reitmeier

Hi everyone! If you’ve been on the Internet anytime in the last week or so, you’ve probably been reminded that now is the time to register to vote. Election Day (which is really more like Election Week or even Election Month during these crazy COVID times) is on November 3rd–that’s, as of this writing, 40 days away. While that might feel like a long time, it will be here before you know it, and this year, your vote will matter more than ever.

Voting If You’re From Illinois

We’ve collected a few resources for those of you from Illinois (non-Illinoisans, look below!). First, this video from How to Vote in Every State gives a great overview of the process of registering to vote in Illinois, either in person or by mail. If you’re not sure if you’re registered, you can check here. If you’d like to sign up to vote by mail, this website from the State of Illinois can help you out. Finally, check out the Campus Voting Project to find out how you can register to vote from your student address!

Voting If You’re Not From Illinois

I have a confession to make, and it’s one of my deepest, most shameful secrets: I didn’t vote in the 2016 election. Not for any lofty ideological reasons, but because I was living away from home at the time and was just really confused by the process of long-distance voting. So if, like me, you are not from Illinois and are struggling to figure out how to vote in your home state, do I have some good news for you!

Requesting an absentee ballot is actually really easy. If you visit this website, you can request that an absentee ballot be mailed to you– the whole process takes about two minutes.

That said, it’s still important to do a little bit of research to make sure you know what your state’s absentee voting policies and deadlines are, since there’s a surprising amount of variation between states. US News has compiled an awesome guide, so all you have to do is click on your state to view its information and make sure you get that ballot in on time!

You Have Power. Vote!

We know that college is stressful (fun fact: we were once college students ourselves), and that it can be hard to set aside time to vote. That’s probably one of the reasons why voting turnout has been so low among adults ages 18-29 in recent years, but hopefully these resources can make voting quick and painless!

If you’re planning on voting in-person but get nervous at the polls, Ballotpedia can give you a preview of what your ballot will look like so you can plan ahead.

Your vote is important–if you are passionate about change, voting is one of the best ways to make your voice heard to some of the most powerful members of this country. We want you to find your issue, and work to make a difference in whatever way you can. Here on campus, check out College Democrats of Illinois, Illini Republicans, or UIUC Young Democratic Socialists. Across the country, there are countless organizations dedicated to getting out the importance of voting. Some of our favorites include Black Voters Matter, Voto Latino, Native Vote, APIA Vote, Queer the Vote, and My Faith Votes.

Get out and vote! We believe in you and your voice (and get a sticker)!

Written By: Aine and Hannah
Posted By: Ryan

Bring Your Own Book Club+

Posted on September 21, 2020 by Maurissa

The Undergraduate and the Residence Halls Libraries are putting together a book club this semester!

Work Before

Gif of a child in sunglasses dancing with text "Workin' from home"

Now…

With the inability to hang out in-person because of the current environment, we wanted to provide an opportunity for members of the University of Illinois to connect via books and other forms of media such as movies and video games. We hope to provide this program throughout the semester. There will be prizes for individuals who can attend (or participate by writing a blurb, if they cannot make the scheduled meeting).

You might be asking yourself, why a book club?

Book clubs are great because they provide an opportunity for socialization! Additionally, a book club is a chance to explore and discover new things, particularly while we are limited in our ability to travel and socialize like usual. For instance, campus book clubs held this summer were a great way to get to meet new people over Zoom while everything was shut down. It was also a wonderful way to build reading lists as each attendee shared some great new recommendations. Additionally, these groups provided suggestions of shows and movies, like Great Teacher Onizuka.

Most importantly, reading books, watching television, or playing games is fun! And by extension, so are book clubs. Perhaps the strongest reason to join this book club is that you will meet fellow media and book enthusiasts who are as invested in learning about your likes as we are about you. Maybe we can bond over a show like Lovecraft Country?

Our first meeting is Wednesday, September 23rd at 6 p.m. RSVP at this sign-up form. We can’t wait to see you there!

Written by: Simone

Edited by: Maurissa & Nicole

UGL Fall Services

Posted on August 21, 2020 by dh-ward@illinois.edu

Welcome back students! This Fall has brought many changes to student life, but the UGL is still here to help you be successful. Libraries across campus have updated their services and facilities to address the COVID-19 pandemic, and provide resources to help on- and off-campus students access our collections and instructional services. In this blog post, we’ll provide details on some of our physical building access updates, as well as ways to connect with us for students who will not be able to visit in person.

Most library services and resources will be offered primarily online. Research help and many of our collections can be accessed through our website, for both on- and off-campus students (see below). The Undergraduate Library will also be offering select in-person services on a limited basis in Fall 2020, including individual study space (starting September 14th), media production studios, and loanable technology access. All services are for single individuals; we will have no spaces in the building which can be accessed by groups.

Health and safety for students and staff are prioritized in the delivery of all of our services. Please see the Library COVID-19 FAQ for information on mandated face coverings, space usage, social distancing, cleaning, and other requirements for access to any UGL spaces and services.

All in person services require prior booking; there will be no same-day or walk-up services available.

Building Hours:

The UGL begin opening for services August 24th. The library will be open Sunday thru Friday, and closed on Saturdays. Building hours are:

Monday-Thursday 11am-9pm
Friday 11am-5pm
Saturday – Closed
Sunday 3pm-9pm

Building Guidelines:

No one will be admitted without face coverings which meet campus requirements.
An Approved status on the Safer Illinois App is required for building entry
There will be no same-day services offered. All services must be booked in advance. Entrance doors will be locked at all times, and there will be no access to the building without a prior appointment.
All appointments require adherence to campus health and safety protocols for face coverings and social distancing. Please see the Library COVID-19 FAQ for information on requirements.
Please contact us at undergrad@library.illinois.edu or call (217)333-3477 with any questions about access to UGL resources.

Services available:

Collections

Books, Journals, and Media Items – The Library is pursuing a digital-first access strategy for most collections, particularly books and journal articles. The Media collection of DVDs and Video Games can be requested through the library catalog. Students can start with the Easy Search tool on our homepage to identify materials which are in our collections., and then place a request to get a digital copy. Please see the Library COVID-19 FAQ for more details on access to books and the media collection.
Loanable Technology – This collection can be reserved online for pick-up in the lobby entrance of the UGL. We have extended the loan time for all items to help patrons meet their media creation needs. Details on what is available, and how to make a booking, are available on the Media Commons Website.

Audio and Video Studios

The Media Commons is providing individuals with media creation studio access, with limited booking times available. Details on what is available, and how to make a booking, are available on the Media Commons Website.

Study Spaces

The UGL will provide access to individual study spaces beginning September 14th. Following campus health and safety guidelines, 36 study spaces are available.
Study spaces must be booked online. There is no walk-up access to study spaces; all study spaces must be booked at least one day in advance.
There is no group study space available in any Library space, including the UGL.

Research and Writing Consultations

Ask-a-Librarian online chat is available online for most research questions.
Beginning September 20th, Research and Writing consultations conducted with the Writers Workshop will be available for either chat or Zoom appointments. See our Research and Writing Consultations page for more details and to sign up for a consultation.

We wish you all the best with your semester, and please don’t hesitate to reach out to the UGL if you have questions about services this semester. Email us at undergrad@library.illinois.edu

Undergraduate Library Blog

Information and Updates on Getting the Most out of the UGL