2018 Senior Books
Senior Books Project
Every year, the graduating seniors who are working in the library are invited to pick a favorite book and say something about what it was like to work in the library. Scroll through the years to find some great books and hear what it’s like to work in the Library
Years available:
2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
Meet the Library’s Class of 2018!
Meghan Johnson
Book Selection
Jitterbug Perfume by Tom Robbins
About the Selection
ITom Robbins is a very honest author, and that is why I love his work. This book in particular is lyrical in a unique way that makes it really easy to read and enjoy.
On Working in the Library
The best part of working at the library has been easy access to books and librarians. I also enjoy the quiet environment and the people who work here.
Sarah Kolenbrander
Book Selection
Representations of Slavery : Race and Ideology in Southern Plantation Museums by Jennifer L. Eichstedt and Stephen Small
About the Selection
This book formed the foundation of my Honors Thesis in History. Not only does it offer a useful methodology for understanding how museums discuss slavery, but it is also a great read!
On Working in the Library
I have loved my time working in Archives and Rare Books with Ellen and the other amazing student workers! No two days are the same, and it definitely dispels the myth of the dusty old archive since you never know what secret (or scandal) you will unearth.
Isabel LaBonte-Clark
Book Selection
Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds
About the Selection
Long Way Down is a book written in verse that takes on the issue of gun violence from the perspective of a 15 year-old named Will. Most of the novel takes place in a single 60 second elevator ride. I read this book in one of my classes this year, and would highly recommend it!
On Working in the Library
The librarians and staff that I have worked with have been amazing and are an integral part of my Macalester experience.
Colette (Coco) Sime
Book Selection
Now by The Invisible Committee
About the Selection
i’ve never been radical in practice because i’ve always been uncertain, and i’ve always been afraid. but i’m starting to think i’ll always be uncertain, and i’ll always be afraid. perhaps insurrection is irresponsible or naive or impossible, but what i am certain of is that this society hurts me, and it hurts others much worse. the recent projects of the invisible committee are worth our consideration. but consideration can only go so far, and faith in consideration itself is a weapon of our oppressors… the invisible committee also demands we move beyond consideration, despite our uncertainty and despite our fear.
On Working in the Library
libraries are community anchors! i’m so grateful to be able to participate in a space that connects mac and the greater community to information and to each other.
Dennis Sotelo Martinez
Book Selection
Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close by Jonathan Safran Foer
About the Selection
This novel tells the beautiful journey of a young boy in search of a clue left behind by his late father who died in the 9/11 tragedy. The story explores grief, loss, and love as experienced through the eyes of a nine year old.
On Working in the Library
One of the best takeaways from working at the library has been getting to know everyone sitting behind the front service desk. There have been many stories and jokes shared in that space. People have been creative and left notes, drawings, origami, and other little tricks for others to see. It’s been an open space made ours.
Chloe Swenson
Book Selection
The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde
About the Selection
My ABSOLUTE FAVORITE book. Wilde uses such beautiful, flowery language to engross me in the narrative he crafts.
On Working in the Library
I enjoyed getting to know the faces (and class loads) of my fellow Mac students, whether they be patrons or coworkers. Sitting in an elevated chair is always nice too.
Nadia Mezic
Book Selection
On the Edge of Reason by Miroslav Krleza
About the Selection
As an English major, I sometimes get so caught up in assigned reading that I forget to read for fun. These short stories are so perceptive, and just right to fit into a busy schedule.
On Working in the Library
The sense of community! The library is full of friendly staff members and coworkers who have made working here an especially bright part of my time at Macalester.