New databases

We're proud to announce that two new databases are now available to the HWS community. The Dictionary of Literary Biography contains biographical and critical essays on authors worldwide, with a focus on American and British literature, and Book Review Index indexes book reviews from 1965 to the present, including over 600,000 full text reviews.

You can always find the most current listing of our databases in the quick links section on the library home page or by browsing our database listings by subject and title on the navigation menu.

Construction update

The first floor construction is beginning to take shape. In this picture, you can see framing for some of the new walls (staff offices and a flexible presentation room).

Construction is beginning on the lower level as well, so the collections stored downstairs (archives, microfilm, and bound journals with call numbers in the P-Z range) will be available only by request. If you need access to these materials, fill out a paging request and library staff will retrieve them for you. Please allow 24-48 hours turnaround, as these areas will often be difficult for library staff to access due to the construction.

Construction update

Construction on the Learning Commons is proceeding at a fast pace. Here you can see the view through the lobby where the wall to Technical Services has been removed. The windowed area in the background, formerly staff office space, will be the new location of the reference collection. This area will feature comfortable seating and areas for group work, with a view through the windows to the Scandling Center.

Library closures

The library will be closed on Monday, May 26 in observance of Memorial Day. We will be also closed on the morning of Wednesday, May 28 for a staff retreat, but plan to reopen by 2 pm.

Summer changes

After two hectic days of moving, the library has reopened for summer hours. As you can see, the first floor has been cleared and is ready for construction to begin. Watch this space for updates and pictures as the Learning Commons begins to take shape.

A few reminders:

• To enter the library during construction, take the staircase next to the Geneva and Sanford rooms to the second floor. The main entrance will be closed for the summer.
• Unfortunately, wheelchair access to the library will be unavailable during construction. If you need library services and cannot use the stairs, call the reference or circulation desk and we will make every effort to accommodate you.
• Please delay any donations of material for the Archives or gift books until September.
• Remember to arrange for use of the Archives in advance (please call Linda Benedict at least one week in advance at 781-3009, as the Archives will be open "by appointment" only).
• Call ahead or make appointments for Reference service whenever possible.