BCF Library services thrive despite hurricane damage

GRACEVILLE–Even though The Baptist College of Florida (BCF) Library sustained significant damage during Hurricane Michael in October 2018, through the efforts and determination of the library staff, faculty and students, the temporary location in McRae Morrow Hall provided continued access to library services.

In addition, the staff hosted several events in the new location to keep students engaged and provide needed academic resources.

Following an open house of the new location, a two-day Plagiarism Workshop was sponsored by the library and Writing Center staffs. Librarian Ruth Slagle and Writing Center Director Melody Barney introduced the importance of understanding the consequences of plagiarizing.

Topics discussed included quoting, paraphrasing, citing credible and scholarly sources, and examples of citing text. Students were reminded that additional help is available in the library holdings as well as individual appointments with the Library and Writing Center staff.

The library team also hosted their second annual “Silent Library,” that challenges teams of students to complete strange tasks without speaking a word. The event originated to better acquaint students with library resources.

At this year’s Silent Library, students were lined up in the hallway of McRae-Morrow Hall waiting for the doors to open and games to begin. Challenge after challenge, students tried to stay completely quiet while performing “daring” tasks—including “Crummy Bunny” that challenged students to quickly eat two huge marshmallows and “Color Me In” when team members allowed the group to color their faces.

Ten teams participated in the event in groups of three to four students. After challenges were completed, judges/library workers determined the winning group. This year’s winning team, “We Showed Up” composed of students Jessie Greenwood, Erika Smith and Kerrie Edwards, took home bragging rights and a $25 gift card to Cold Stone.

At BCF the educational experience is sometimes challenging as students prepare for areas of service, leadership and ministry. Library events such as the Plagiarism Workshop and the Silent Library are reminders of the commitment the faculty and staff at BCF have in providing the skills and tools students need to succeed.

For more information on the resources in the BCF Library or how to make a Writing Center appointment online at The Baptist College of Florida, please call 800.328.2660 or visit the website at www.baptistcollege.edu.