Follow the Reader at UOB Libraries A reading campaign has been launched in November 2013 at the University of Balamand Libraries, to promote reading and to support literacy and learning at the University. The campaign aims to encourage students to grow reading habits that will help them in strengthening their language, and in broadening their culture. The campaign has different activities. The first one was the Annual Book Festival (November 26-27). It was organized in collaboration with the Interactive Club, and the proceeds went to “Wahat Al-Farah”.
Students, faculty, and staff enjoyed checking out and buying books dealing with major subjects. Novels, biographies, political, social, history, and children books were available in different languages and reading levels. In addition, the library offered a selection of used books and textbooks at a bargain price.
Other ideas were introduced before, such as the reading corner in the Atrium where users can enjoy a selection of popular magazines while having their coffee.
Also, the Graded Readers corner in the library enables the English language students to strengthen their language skills by reading famous novels written in simple English. Soon, other initiatives and plans will be organized with one target in mind: to promote the pleasure of reading among our students in a sustainable manner.
“Play, Learn, and Win” day at the Library Open Doors on October 19. Students learned about the library, engaged in general knowledge games, and won valuable prizes.
Recognizing 23 Years of Service Nearly 150 members of the Balamand community came together on September 30, 2013, to wish Ms. Sameera Bashir a very emotional farewell on her retirement from the University after 23 years of service. Present at the gathering held in the atrium of the Issam Fares Library were President Elie Salem – who took a break from his vacation to attend the ceremony – VP Georges Nahas, and VP Michel Najjar, as well as deans, directors, faculty and staff members who have all relied on Ms. Bashir’s kind and professional help during the years. Sameera Bashir, who retires officially in November, will remain engaged with the Library on a part-time basis as Collection Development Librarian and, therefore, says President Salem, “she will have more time to read the books she loves in her beautiful village of Douma