Freshmen library orientation games
Beware the libraries—you never know what may be lurking in the stacks. Pirates, treasure, and dead bodies await UF freshmen as the University of Florida’s George A. Smathers Libraries present their new orientation program. Continuing and expanding their pilot program, Library Survivor, begun during summer B, the UF librarians are plotting murders and burying treasure to introduce new students to the extensive resources at the libraries in scavenger hunt format.
Library West:
Oh, Murder most foul! On August 20 and August 24 from 5:00-6:30 p.m., in addition to getting a first look at the newly renovated Library West, students will also find themselves involved in a murder investigation. When a dead body turns up during a routine library tour, students will be put into teams, given a starting clue, and asked to follow the directions to find more clues to the identity of the murderer. Each clue will take them through a basic library skill or information station. The first team to find all the clues and get the right answer will win prizes.
Marston Science Library:
Pirates are taking over the Marston Science library on August 22 and August 27. From 5:00-6:30 p.m. students will be put into teams and given a map and a starting clue for finding the legendary treasure of Captain Book. The clue will lead the students on a scavenger hunt for additional clues and each clue will require the use of a basic library skill. The first team to find all of the clues, and the treasure, will receive prizes—and everyone will come away with a basic understanding of how to get started in the library.
For both scenarios, the program is expected to last about an hour and refreshments will be served at the end. Library staff will be on hand to offer tips and help—making sure that students finish with a basic understanding of how to best access library resources. “If nothing else, we want them to know that it’s ok to ask the librarians for help,” said Carrie Newsom and Chelsea Dinsmore, co-originators of the program.
Space is limited to about 25 students the first night and 50 the second. Interested students should contact Carrie Newsom at 273-2863 or Chelsea Dinsmore at 273-0369 to reserve a spot.
