UNK will replace all books on campus next week with digital versions as part of an ongoing eco–friendly initiative. The books no longer in use will be repurposed throughout campus, with many being utilized at The Graze cafeteria.
Dave Annbusster, collection services librarian, is directing this transition away from paper within the Calvin T. Ryan Library.
“Paper can sometimes be such a nuisance when I’m reading,” Annbuster said. “I get papercuts regularly, and I spill my coffee on the pages all the time. With online books, I can spill coffee on my Kindle instead, and then crack the screen after I drop it.”
The new digital collection will be moved into the eLibrary section of the UNK online bookstore. Checked out books will be located at the top, with an additional section to view the entire catalogue.
The digital library is accessible for all students and staff after three failed logins with the DUO two-factor authentication system.
Library administration has announced early plans for after the bookshelves are removed. The UNK website lists putt–putt golf, photo booths and book–inspired laser tag as potential candidates on the second floor. The original idea for a “Dance Dance Revolution” arcade cabinet was moved to the basement due to fear of ceiling collapse. A hearing will take place next month where students can vote on potential additions.
The Graze has also taken steps to be part of this initiative.
Mac Niches, senior food service coordinator, hopes to save on student expenses in the upcoming semester.
“We want to just use the old books as plates,” Niches said. “If we stretch out the spines, they function practically the same way. We can use the picture books for the smaller food items, and maybe the students will read while they eat.”
Around 60% of books will be given to The Graze, with an expectation of saving $30 per student.
The utility of the books extends to all students, as some books will be placed under wobbly table legs in the Nebraskan Student Union or in front of the drinking fountains as footstools. Students may also fill out an acquisition form to request old books for personal use. A number of fine arts students plan to replace their band sheet music with pages from poetry collections.
Although primarily impacting the library, this decision seeks to replace all student literature within the school system, including virtual learners.
Stuart Dinte, an online English education major, returned their books back to UNK as part of the program.
“The process to digitize wasn’t an inconvenience at all, and the online tools are like having the book in person,” Dinte said. “I live in Ainsworth, so the school had someone come pick the books up from my house. I had only eighteen books this semester, so I didn’t even have to help carry the books to his car.”
A group of students met in protest in front of the library following the announcement. One attendee claimed the library would limit students’ ability to take pictures of themselves reading to post on Instagram.
DISCLAIMER: This story is a part of our annual April Fools’ issue, this story is not real. Happy April Fools’ Day!
