This year’s National Library Week, which is taking place April 10-16, is celebrating the monumental impact libraries have through its Libraries Transform theme. The Jessie S. Brennan Library was constructed in 1967, dedicated to Lasell alumna Jessie S. Brennan, Class of 1917. Designed to accommodate thousands of books, Brennan Library contained lounge areas, audio rooms, children’s book collections for the Child Study Program and more. Brennan Library provides more than a quiet place to study. Today, Brennan Library is home to more than 64,150 volumes and over 80 electronic databases. Further, as a member of a consortium of 42 local libraries, the Lasell community has access to over six million items.
“We provide resources for research and discovery as well as for fun and leisure,” Allison Bjorndahl McCarter, Reference Librarian and Archivist, said. “The best news? If we don’t have it, there is a good chance someone in our local network can send it over for you.”
Brennan Library is more than just a library – it’s a rare entity at the heart of Lasell’s campus. “Like Lasell as a whole, the library has a culture of offering personal support and connection,” Pam Matz, Reference Librarian and Liaison to Graduate School, said. “Our library is unique in the level of individual attention and tailored service we provide to students and faculty,” said Lydia Sampson, Head of Technical Services.
Brennan Library also houses the Winslow Archives, dedicated to Donald “Don” Winslow, son of Lasell College President Emeritus Dr. Guy M Winslow. “The Winslow Archives provides our patrons with unique glimpses into the rich history of Lasell. We have a wide array of treasures: from our collection of thousands of photographs and thoughtfully crafted scrapbooks to an actual chunk of the old swimming pool,” Allison said.
Every element of Brennan Library plays an important role in Lasell students’ educational journeys, from the Yamawaki Education Library to the Bedee Student Study Rooms. “Brennan Library provides our entire community resources for all aspects of research and personal growth,” Jill Shoemaker, Head of Reference, said.
However, it’s the knowledgeable and passionate librarians and staff members that make Brennan Library the resource that it is. “Libraries offer opportunities to explore what you’re interested in, to make intended and accidental discoveries, and to feel connected to people from other times and places,” Pam said. “I became a librarian to help other people access those opportunities.”
As Lasell College grows, Brennan Library continues to expand its tools, programs and resources. “We always have tough choices to make,” Lydia said. “We librarians and our team of student workers certainly have no shortage of drive and motivation, though every new endeavor requires more time, funds and staff.” “
The way students are learning keeps changing, and it’s our job to pay attention, retool, transform and make improvements,” Del Hornbuckle, Library Director, said. One of Brennan’s Library’s newest acquisitions is Kanopy, a program which allows students, faculty and other community members stream over 14,500 educational documentaries and movies on various topics.
“Our students deserve the best resources and access to them whenever and wherever possible,” Del said.
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