For many of us, the pandemic left us feeling isolated, disjointed as a community, and uncertain of how to navigate the “new normal” on campus.  This feeling may be especially strong in our newest community members, who spent the last two years finishing their high school education under highly unusual circumstances.  In an effort to bring us together as a community, MacPhaidin Library will be hosting a Welcome Event on September 9, 2022, from 1pm until 4pm.

The theme of the event is “You Belong Here” and all community members are welcome and encouraged to attend.  During the party, library staff will be available to meet and chat with new and returning students and faculty and promote the many resources and services available to the Stonehill community.  Attendees can participate in outdoor and indoor activities, including drop-in gaming hosted by the Stonehill Gaming Club in the Digital Lab, craft activities hosted by the Art Club, and lawn games like Kan Jam and Cornhole (available to borrow from the Library of Things).  Food and freebies will be available, and new followers of @macphaidinlibrary on Instagram will be entered into a raffle to win one of several $25 Stonehill bookstore gift cards and portable block chargers.

This event will also serve as an opportunity to showcase our Digital Lab, Podcasting Studio, and Media room as student-centered spaces.  While faculty are always welcome to reserve these spaces for course-related activities, students are also encouraged to utilize these rooms as places to gather, study, host events, and collaborate with their peers.  Users may request to reserve the Digital Lab and Podcasting studio using the corresponding online forms.

As Helen Keller said, “Alone we can do so little. Together we can do so much.” With that in mind, library staff look forward to working together with all members of the campus community to foster a sense of belonging and help each person achieve their goals.  We hope you will join us in fun and camaraderie on September 9!