Vegging Out in the Library

A concern for the environment and its resources prompted junior Zina D to research the food industry and examine her diet. This past Friday, she shared what she found -- and the changes she made -- in the first Agora Unleashed session of the school year. For those not in the know, Agora Unleashed is discussion series designed by students for students to share topics relevant to their lives. Zina did a great job kicking off the 2015-16 roster of presenters, with an informed and informative session that generated plenty of conversation among participants!

What's the secret ingredient, you ask? Why, Golden Retriever!

Considering not paltry poultry problems.

Which came first, the chicken or the really big chicken?

Cars v. Forks!

Printing: Now in 3D!

Need a bicycle part? Or a cell phone case? Or a thingamajig? We got just the tool for the job! Uni's 3D printer, generously donated by alum Blaine Garst, has been getting lots of use this year, though not everyone knows how to use this awesome piece of equipment. Thanks to seniors Ansel and Noah and their Agora Unleashed talk, Make and Take (or Give): 3D Printing and Modeling for Your Life, we now have an idea of where to start!

Mr. Russell checks out the very important thingamajig.

Ansel explains modeling software.

Bicycle parts, orbs, and thingamajigs-- oh my!

Students Beat Down Doors for Agora Unleashed Session

Katie (seated) had to fend off at least zero other students for her chair.

Today's rousing Agora Unleashed discussion saw an astounding turnout of one (1) student for Peeling the Onion: The Art of Satirical News. Nicholas had a hard time controlling the crowd, but somehow managed to keep attendant Katie T. focused.

Though librarian Amy and GA Amanda also joined in, their in loco parentis status voided the legitimacy of their presence. "Amy and Amanda?" said Nicholas, "That's like the library equivalent of having your mother attend. They're like morally obligated to support you."

 

 

Nicholas, Katie, and surrogate mom Amanda work on their own satirical news stories.

We'll remember that come Mother's Day.

All Aboard!

Another Friday, another Agora Unleashed. Today's topic? Make It Train: Trainspotting and the Agony and Ecstasy of Hobbies, led by Uni Junior Jacob, aka MJ.

Perfectly timed with tomorrow's train show at Lincoln Square in Urbana, Jacob's talk focused on his lifelong long of trains and pursuit of the perfect train sighting. Who knew that trainspotting could improve your photography chops, bolster your driving skills, and put you in frequent contact with the authorities?

Thanks for an interesting and informative session, Jacob-- now, full-steam ahead!

The joy.

The beauty.

The police.

Agora Madness!

Last week, the Uni community once again experienced the wonder of Agora Days. For those not in the know, Agora Days is a week-long schedule of special classes taught by students, teachers, and other members of the community. From ballroom dancing to cake decorating to the history of Motown, these classes offer something for everyone. The library had the honor of hosting three very different sessions: A Frank Zappa Odyssey; a Bollywood survey; and Story Skillz, a storytelling class focused on building narratives.

What looks like intensive writing is actually a spiral-drawing listening exercised inspired by Lynda Barry's Syllabus.

OMG-- Frank Z in the library!

Motorcycles, Bollywood style.

Cruising through Bollywood films.

Though not a relaxing week, per se, Agora provides an informative and exciting change of pace that is over all too soon. Thank goodness we have Agora Unleashed to tide us over until next year!

The Pack Yack

A touchdown dance is in order after today's Agora Unleashed session, where senior Isaak H. took the field to talk about sports and sport fandom-- namely in terms of his beloved Green Bay Packers. With plenty of talking points and a tote full of ephemera, Isaak made a great case for the Pack. He almost won over this Bear's fan. Almost.

Professor H. knows his stuff-- and his bow ties.

Mr. Rayburn gives the Kentucky perspective (which, btw, is not heart-warming, as it involves divorcing couples arguing over season tickets rather than child custody).

He's a natural!

Always Remember....

The new fashion trend?

Why yes, everyone is sporting the look!

OMG! Aaron Rodgers in the library! Can these 200+ pounds of muscle keep it quiet during Uni Period?

Pack the Library

Love football? Or futball? We have an Agora Unleashed* discussion for you! Tomorrow in the library, senior Isaak H. will present Why We Love Sports: The Green Bay Packers and Unconditional Fandom. So join us for a little Pack Yack, and feel free to bring the love for your own team.

Yeah, you could say he's a fan.

* Agora Unleashed is a new library discussion series centered on student interests. Agora Unleashed: Knowledge Off the Chain