By the Health Sciences Libraries

For several years now Wilson, Walter and Magrath Libraries have had popular reading collections for users to check out a great new read from both fiction and non-fiction genres. The Health Sciences Library (HSL) is the latest university library to add a popular reading collection for our community. 

Popular reading – with a health sciences twist!

HSL’s collections coordinator, Nicole Theis-Mahon worked closely with her colleagues in Access and Information Services and Facilities to bring a new popular reading collection to HSL. After space and shelving were prepped and ordered, Theis-Mahon took on the task of ordering 50 books to start a new collection.

Some of the new titles that make up the Health Sciences Library’s new popular reading collection.

“The Health Sciences Library collection supports recreational reading and supports lifelong learning by providing opportunities to explore personal interests and well-being. These books also complement topics and content found in our academic collections,” Theis-Mahon said. 

Reading is wellbeing

Students have to navigate many commitments and stressors that cannot be easily separated from their academic life. It’s in moments of challenge where self-care becomes even more important. Natalie Platt, the interim director of the Center for Interprofessional Programs (CHIP), explained why a popular reading collection is so vital.

“Showing up for ourselves and our community is always important, and for many, it feels especially salient right now. Sometimes that might mean learning something new. Other times it means turning to a familiar topic, genre, or author for comfort. We often choose to read for growth or to get lost in another world. Either way, we’re choosing wellness,” Platt said. 

Find your next great read at HSL

HSL’s popular reading collection is physically located near the fifth floor service point and is ready for browsing in-person anytime the library is open. You can also virtually browse through all the titles in the collection. Titles can be checked out for one month with renewal options and can be requested through Get It. Just search for an item, sign in to view full records, and click Get It to have an item routed to you.