Highlighting the Research of Lehman Authors: The Library Reading Series

An important part of the cycle of research and knowledge creation is dissemination; that is, sharing knowledge created through research with others.  Association of College and Research Libraries recognizes both formal and informal channels of dissemination as aspects of the scholarly communication system (ALA, 2006).  Formal channels include scholarly publications such as academic books and peer-reviewed journal articles, while informal channels may include mediums like listservs and social media.  For the last four years, I have enjoyed helping coordinate a series of Library events that live at the intersection of formal and informal channels of dissemination.

The Library’s Reading and Discussion Series highlights books published by Lehman faculty, staff, and alumni.  Each Reading invites a Lehman author to share their recently published book with members of the community, including faculty, staff, and students.  Initiated in 2008 by Chief Librarian Kenneth Schlesinger, the Reading and Discussion Series serves as a way for the Lehman community to learn about knowledge produced within the College.  Seated around a seminar table in the Library’s cozy Treehouse Conference Room, usually with refreshments available, colleagues and students can learn about an author’s work in a relaxed atmosphere.

While some of the Readings have highlighted creative works such as novels, poetry, and memoirs, the majority of books discussed have been scholarly in nature.  Over the years, we have featured works by Lehman faculty across a wide variety of disciplines such as Business, Education, Literature, Philosophy, and Sociology, to name only a few.  These discussions have helped informally disseminate research produced by our faculty to the wider campus community.

While dissemination of knowledge produced by Lehman authors to the campus community is important, the Readings also provide insight into different research methodologies and approaches employed within different disciplines.  From analysis of economic data to close reading of literary texts or deep dives into archival materials, attendees at these events get a close look at the scope of activities undertaken to research and publish a scholarly book in different disciplines.  As academic librarians, it is important for us to develop this kind of insight, as the Library supports the research endeavors of our faculty.  For students in attendance, it provides a view of the work their faculty perform outside the classroom and how it connects to work they are required to do in their courses as novice researchers.

Vanessa Arce Senati

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