Woodward Library Blog

This summer, the basement of the Woodward Library became home to something new: a student-curated salon wall. Led by art history student Naomi Hundt, with guidance from senior gallery assistant Mai Mai Newberry, it was her first time creating a salon wall, and the result brings fresh energy and character to the space.

The Inspiration 

“The salon wall was inspired by creepy basements, like the downstairs of the library,” Naomi explained. “We chose pieces we thought were dark with a creepy feeling. We also wanted to display a lot of the newly purchased student pieces from the 57th Annual Juried Exhibition.”

Mai Mai, who has worked on past installations in the library, agreed that the setting shaped the vision.

“We drew inspiration from the library’s basement, its tucked-away quality, and how that atmosphere could be reflected in the art,” she said.

When asked to sum it up in three words, Naomi chose “eerie, stylish, bold,” while Mai Mai described it as “patterned, literary, rhythmic.”

The Process

Creating a salon wall is no easy feat. With so many works to balance, every decision matters.

“Within each piece you have to think about the direction they are moving to, the size and frame of each piece, and the colors within them,” Naomi said. “In order to have a cohesive wall there’s a lot of trial and error in putting each piece up.”

Mai Mai emphasized how difficult it is to create a wall that truly works together as a whole.

“The simple answer would be to just fill the wall with whatever is available, but we wanted more intention than that. Each work had to speak to us and to the overall vision. That takes time, effort, and a lot of careful looking.”

For Naomi, one of the most satisfying parts was creating hidden connections within the larger theme.

“There’s a painting with flowers, and below it I placed a beetle print. It creates a little nature theme within the larger wall.”

And for Mai Mai, the defining moment came at the very end.

“When we hung the final piece—the single work beside the doors—we knew instantly that it was the finishing touch. It completed the wall.”

The Impact

Seeing the wall in place has been rewarding for both students.

“I’m very proud of this wall,” Naomi said. “It was my first ever salon wall, so I was very nervous when I first started hanging work, but I think it turned out great. I’m very excited for everyone to see it.”

Mai Mai emphasized the importance of incorporating art into everyday student spaces.

“Our role is to make the public collection truly public. Even if students don’t consciously realize it, art on the walls enriches their space. A bare wall communicates very little; one filled with artwork sparks thought and feeling. If we could, we’d love to extend that presence across the entire campus, that’s the dream.”

More than decoration, she hopes the wall becomes part of the library’s identity.

“Ideally, the wall becomes a subtle landmark or something you might use as a meeting point. ‘I’ll meet you by the wall of artwork on the first floor.’ It turns an ordinary spot into a distinctive one.”

Looking Ahead

Both Naomi and Mai Mai are pursuing art history with the goal of working in museums or galleries. Their time curating installations at Austin Peay has given them hands-on experience in art handling, display, and storytelling.

And while Mai Mai oversaw the process, she is quick to note that this was Naomi’s project from start to finish. The finished wall stands as a bold and thoughtful showcase of student creativity.

The salon wall is now on display in the basement of the Woodward Library for students and visitors to experience.

Help the Woodward Library Expand the Makerspace! 

The Woodward Library's Makerspace has become a hub of creativity and innovation on campus. Students bring amazing ideas to life in our Makerspace by crafting costumes with 3D printers, designing and printing stickers, and giving worn items new life with our sewing tools. Now we're ready to grow - with your help! 

The Woodward Library has been selected for a GOVing Tuesday fundraising opportunity! Your support can bring even more creative possibilities to our thriving Makerspace community.

The people who use our Makerspace most frequently are helping shape its future. Students and staff have directly requested the items on our wishlist, sharing from firsthand experience what would make our space even better. Dominic Croll, our tech expert, has carefully researched the best equipment options. Adam Shelton, manager of special projects in the Library, saw the need for large-format printing and championed adding a professional plotter printer. Deanna Sherry, the Makerspace team lead, proposed adding an embroidery machine after seeing it become our most frequently requested tool from Makerspace users. These new tools will transform what's possible in our space. 

The Makerspace already offers 3D printers, VR headsets, Cricut and Cameo cutting machines, and sewing equipment. With your help, we can offer even more!

Every donation counts, no matter the size. Funds raised beyond our goal will support the Library Fund of Excellence, helping us continue providing innovative resources. 

Ready to help build the future of our Makerspace? GOVing Tuesday is December 3rd, but you can contribute at any time by visiting the GOVing Tuesday donation page. 

Join Woodward Library for an informal focus group and share your feedback on library spaces, services, technology, and resources. This is an opportunity to let us know how we are and ways we can better suit your needs. Pizza and snacks will be provided!

Date: Wednesday, Nov. 13
Time: 5 PM
Place: Woodward Library, room 232
Space is limited!

LIBR 2001: Empowering Information Seekers in the Digital Age

Empowering Information Seekers is an online, asynchronous course designed to help students navigate the digital information landscape by developing skills in identifying, evaluating, and ethically using information from various sources, including databases and social media. The course explores ethical issues like copyright, plagiarism, and privacy, while also offering insights into Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Large Language Models (LLMs), focusing on their role in academia and the workplace. Students will critically examine algorithmic bias, data privacy, and responsible AI use, preparing them to ethically engage with information in today’s digital world. No prerequisites; open to all majors.

Celebrating Woodward Library's Transformation

We're thrilled to announce that the Woodward Library’s grand opening celebration was a success! The event, which took place in September, marked the unveiling of our newly renovated main floor and the exciting addition of our cutting-edge Makerspace and VR Lab.

Visitors were invited to explore the transformed spaces, which included fresh paint and new carpeting that have breathed new life into our Library.

The star attraction was undoubtedly the Makerspace and VR Lab. The new facility represents our commitment to providing our campus and community access to the latest creative and technological resources. Throughout the day, guests toured the renovated area, participated in demonstrations of our new equipment, and imagined the possibilities these spaces would bring to their academic and personal projects.

One of the highlights of our celebration was the series of hourly giveaways. We're pleased to announce our lucky student winners:

• 1st Prize: $150 Makerspace Gift Certificate – May Hennrich
• 2nd Prize: $100 Makerspace Gift Certificate – Alli Wilkins
• 3rd Prize: $50 Makerspace Gift Certificate – Meleah Meadors

In addition to these fantastic prizes, we also held special drawings for our dedicated faculty and staff:

• Faculty Prize: $50 Makerspace Gift Certificate – Florian Gargaillo
• Staff Prize: $50 Makerspace Gift Certificate – Felicia Nagel

These gift certificates will allow our winners to dive right into creating and innovating in our new Makerspace!

Looking Ahead

The grand opening may be over, but the excitement is just beginning. Our renovated main floor provides a more comfortable and inviting space for study and collaboration, while the Makerspace opens up new horizons for creativity, innovation, and learning.

We invite all APSU faculty, staff, and students, as well as members of our community to come and experience these wonderful new resources for themselves. Thank you to all who attended our grand opening celebration and helped make it such a memorable event. Stay tuned for upcoming workshops, events, and opportunities to engage with our new spaces. The future is bright, and it's happening right here in the Woodward Library!

Artistic Duo Challenges Censorship Through Visual Storytelling

As Banned Books Week highlights the crucial role of artistry in combating censorship, a Tennessee-based creative duo stands at the forefront, emphasizing the power of visual storytelling. Jana Gilbert, a printmaker and letterpress artist, and Michelle Turner, a photographer, have joined forces to create a piece that is both thought-provoking and visually stunning, embodying the spirit of free expression that Banned Books Week celebrates.

Gilbert brings more than 12 years of experience to their collaboration, skillfully blending tradition with innovation in her approach. Her journey, shaped by a bachelor’s degree in visual arts and a master’s degree in marketing communications, was particularly influenced by her time at APSU, especially her work at the Goldsmith Press under the guidance of influential mentors. Her work has graced galleries in Nashville, Clarksville, and Virginia, and is renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship and narrative depth. Gilbert explores the intricate interplay of texture, typography, and emotion through her letterpress and relief carvings, creating pieces that resonate deeply with viewers.

Complementing Gilbert's tactile approach is Turner, a photographer with more than a decade of experience behind the lens. With a bachelor’s degree in photography and a master’s degree in marketing communications, Turner brings a keen eye for detail and a passion for uncovering the extraordinary within the ordinary. Her work, spanning both digital and film mediums, reveals a deep appreciation for nature and a talent for finding beauty in everyday moments, challenging and expanding viewers' perspectives.

Joining the Unbannable Library Project

Recently, Gilbert and Turner have contributed their considerable talents to the Unbannable Library project, an initiative that celebrates freedom of expression and stands against censorship. For Gilbert, this project aligns perfectly with her artistic philosophy. "The idea of the Unbannable Library is exactly why I enjoy creating art," she explains, highlighting her passion for work that champions diversity and free expression.

Bringing The Handmaid's Tale to Visual Life

For their contribution to the project, the duo focused on Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale, a dystopian novel that explores totalitarianism, gender inequality, and resistance. Gilbert elaborates, "Through photography and graphic design utilizing layers and typography, we aim to evoke the feelings of restriction and control present in the narrative."

The collaborative process was particularly enriching for both artists. "Working alongside my wife allowed for a dynamic exchange of ideas," Gilbert reflects. This partnership not only deepened their understanding of the source material but also challenged them to push the boundaries of their artistic expression.

Engaging Viewers in the Fight Against Censorship

Their artwork for the Unbannable Library serves as more than just a visual representation of a banned book. It's a call to action, inviting viewers to engage with the themes on multiple levels. "I hope viewers will feel the emotional weight of the themes while also provoking thought about the implications of
censorship in their own lives," Gilbert reveals.

Through this project, Gilbert and Turner aim to convey the necessity of preserving freedom of expression. “I want viewers to recognize that art can be a powerful tool for resistance and that every voice matters in the fight for equality and justice,” Gilbert asserts.

The experience of working on this project has reinforced Gilbert's beliefs about the importance of free expression. It has also expanded her understanding of the many forms censorship can take in society. She believes that art plays a crucial role in combating censorship by challenging the status quo, provoking dialogue, and giving voice to marginalized perspectives. “By showcasing diverse perspectives, art not only raises awareness of censorship but also empowers individuals to share their stories and advocate for their rights, creating a more inclusive dialogue around free expression,” she notes.

Hopes for the Unbannable Library Project

Looking to the future, Gilbert and Turner hope that the Unbannable Library project will spark important conversations about literary freedom and the dangers of censorship. "By engaging the community in this dialogue, we can foster a greater appreciation for diverse voices and encourage individuals to advocate for freedom of expression," Gilbert states, emphasizing her hope that the project will inspire action and solidarity among artists and community members alike.

A Voice for Artistic Freedom

As Gilbert and Turner continue to push the boundaries of their art, their involvement with the Unbannable Library stands as a powerful testament to the role artists can play in shaping societal discourse. Through their work, they not only create beautiful and thought-provoking pieces but also champion the fundamental right of free expression, making them vital voices in the ongoing conversation about censorship and artistic freedom.

A Lifelong Love of Literature and Art: Spotlight on a Local Artist

As conversations around censorship and access to literature become increasingly urgent, artists play a vital role in advocating for the written word. With over thirty years of experience as an educator, local artist Billy Renkl offers a unique perspective shaped by his commitment to nurturing young minds. His artistic journey has led him to the Unbannable Library project—a series of oversized book sculptures that boldly challenge censorship. Through his work in illustration and artistic expression, Renkl reveals the transformative power of the written word.

A Career Steeped in Creativity

"I'm beginning my 36th year at APSU, teaching illustration and drawing," Renkl begins, his words carrying the weight of experience. His career has been intrinsically linked with literature. "I've worked with texts my entire professional life – as an illustrator of books, but also as an exhibiting artist who finds inspiration in literature, from King Lear to the poet Mary Oliver."

The Futility of Banning Ideas

When asked about his motivation to participate in the Unbannable Library project, Renkl’s response is both philosophical and practical. "As it turns out, most books are ultimately unbannable – at least now," he says. He points out the irony often seen in censorship attempts: "The efforts of misguided and small-minded people to try to ban a book often lead, eventually, to increased desirability and access. Ideas just aren't well-behaved."

Drawing from history, he references the 1882 edition of Leaves of Grass by Walt Whitman, which sold out in Boston within a day of being banned. This example serves as a cornerstone for his contribution to the Unbannable Library project.

Whitman's Enduring Legacy

For his sculpture, Renkl and his collaborator, Susannah Felts, chose to focus on Whitman's Leaves of Grass. "We intentionally picked a 'classic' book – one that was banned in its time and is now beloved as great literature," he explains. The choice is poignant, highlighting how time often vindicates controversial works. "Whitman's great work didn't become greater in the 169 years since it was first published, we just caught up with it."

The Power of Collaboration

Working with Felts, Renkl found his preconceptions challenged in the best way. While he initially imagined focusing on Whitman's botanical imagery, his
collaborator zeroed in on the book's once-scandalous exploration of sensuality and desire. "That was so much more powerful than the small place I would have taken the project," he admits. "Susannah reminded me that the book was not just beautiful but was also heroic and necessary – a book that merited an oversized form."

Art as a Catalyst for Self-Discovery

As an educator in the Department of Art + Design, Renkl sees his role as more than just teaching techniques. "Over here we beta test everything that our culture is going to be wrestling with in a few years," he says. He views his position as a privilege, witnessing students become themselves through art and inquiry.

Reflecting on his own undergraduate experience, he contrasts the definitive statements of his upbringing with the open-ended questions of university life. “I'd spent my whole life up to that point being told who I was by well-meaning people who loved me: this is what we eat, this is what we believe, this is how we think about money and gender and beauty and everything else,” he says. “When I got to the University, those statements were replaced with a series of questions: What do you eat? What do you believe? Who are you? Who are you going to be?" These questions, he believes, are at the heart of education and personal growth.

A Personal Stand Against Censorship

The artist's passion for free access to literature is deeply personal. Recounting his childhood experiences in a small public library, he credits his parents' open-mindedness and trust in allowing him to read freely. "My parents could have been small-minded: my mom grew up on a peanut farm in south Alabama and my dad didn't graduate from college. But they weren't. And they trusted me, and they believed in the library."

This trust extended to professionals as well. Renkl vehemently supports the expertise of teachers and librarians in curating appropriate materials for young readers. “They are well-educated experts in their fields. Leaving aside all they know about learning styles and literacy and brain development and vocabulary and teaching strategies and inclusiveness – they've also had more coursework in child psychology than most parents. Can't we just trust them to do their jobs?” he asserts, advocating for better compensation for their crucial work.

A Call to Action

Renkl’s hopes for the Unbannable Library project are clear: beyond admiration for the oversized sculptures, he wants viewers to engage directly with the literature. "I hope they check out a copy of Whitman and carry it around in their pockets such that it changes their lives," he says, embodying the transformative power of literature he's championed throughout his career.

In a world where debates over censorship continue to rage, Renkl’s voice serves as a reminder of the enduring power of ideas and the importance of trusting individuals, especially young people, to engage with diverse perspectives. His contribution to the Unbannable Library stands not just as a work of art, but as a testament to the "heroic openness" that allows literature to shape and enrich our lives.

Unveiling the Invisible: An Artist's Protest Against Censorship

At the forefront of the fight against book bans and censorship, a multi-disciplinary artist is using his creative voice to make a powerful statement. Luke Warren, a recent addition to the Department of Art + Design faculty at APSU, channels his personal experiences and strong convictions into his work with the Unbannable Library project.

A Lifelong Passion for Reading

Warren’s relationship with reading has been anything but straightforward. "I am severely dyslexic and have several processing differences that not only shape who I am but also created significant challenges for me during my early years," he explains. As a young child, he faced the devastating doubt of a teacher who told him he was "stupid" and would "never amount to much."

Fortunately, his parents intervened, connecting him with a developmental reading specialist who transformed his life. "Without her, I wouldn't be where I am today at APSU," he acknowledges.

Championing Intellectual Freedom

This early adversity has infused Warren's artistic practice with a profound appreciation for the power of reading. "Reading offers a pathway to knowledge, exposing us to new ideas, dialogues, and perspectives, often from people with backgrounds different from our own," he reflects. "It is essential to engage with different viewpoints to foster global citizenship and a more inclusive society."

This belief in the importance of intellectual freedom is at the heart of his involvement in the Unbannable Library project. "Libraries should be places of  exploration, not censorship, where individuals can encounter new and challenging ideas," he asserts. Drawing on his own experience with a teacher who hindered his development, he is dedicated to maintaining spaces where people are free to explore subjects that interest them.

Visualizing the Invisible

For his contribution to the Unbannable Library, Warren has created a thought-provoking sculpture that symbolizes the erasure and camouflaging of books. "The inspiration comes from one of my father's favorite jokes: camouflage makes everything it's on invisible," he explains. This concept has been transformed into a powerful statement on book censorship.

The sculpture features a plush, pillow-like book form that appears camouflaged, seemingly hidden from view. Yet, upon closer inspection, the pages inside are bright and vibrant, "demanding attention." This duality, Warren suggests, mirrors the ways in which censorship attempts to conceal and suppress ideas.

Inviting Interaction and Engagement

Warren’s work invites viewers to actively engage with the sculpture, breaking down the barriers of invisibility. "I hope viewers will write in/on this work and give it plenty of hugs!" he says. The pillow-like form and a more rigid, bookmark-like element encourage tactile interaction, allowing viewers to "bring it back into focus" and "metaphorically breathe life back into its pages."

A Call for Civil Discourse

Through his contribution to the Unbannable Library, Warren aims to convey a powerful message about the current state of censorship and the importance of free expression. "I want to highlight that censorship is at an all-time high and that free expression is under threat," he explains. However, his approach is not one of confrontation, but rather a call for civil discourse.

"If someone disagrees with a text, they can choose not to read it, but they should not attempt to erase it from existence or from public libraries," he asserts. Warren believes that art can create a space for nuanced discussions, helping individuals become more aware of contemporary issues and movements in censorship.

A Lasting Impact

As the Unbannable Library project unfolds, Warren hopes it will raise awareness about censorship in libraries and inspire viewers to engage in the conversation. "I want viewers to be inspired by these works to engage in the conversation and offer their support," he says. Ultimately, he believes the project will provide clear, visual representations of the complex issue of censorship, encouraging critical thinking and action to address emerging censorship practices.

For Warren, the Unbannable Library project is not just an artistic endeavor, but a deeply personal expression of his journey with reading and his unwavering commitment to intellectual freedom. Through his work, he hopes to ensure that the voices and stories deemed "unbannable" will continue to be celebrated and amplified. You can learn more about Warren and his art at lukewarrenart.com.

Join us for an Unbannable Library Reception on Wednesday, Sept. 25, from 5 PM - 6 PM in the Woodward Library, room 232. This gathering offers a chance to connect with authors and illustrators featured in the Unbannable Library. Your presence and participation will enrich our ongoing dialogue about the value of diverse voices in literature. No RSVP required. All are welcome.

Where Librarianship Meets Artistry: A Unique Voice in the Unbannable Library

In the realm of intellectual freedom, librarians often stand as silent guardians. But in the Unbannable Library project, University College Research Librarian Gina Nigro has stepped into the spotlight, bringing her unique perspective to this artistic stand against censorship.

A Librarian's Artistic Expression

"First and foremost, I am an academic librarian," she begins. With over 28 years at APSU, she has worked closely with the Departments of Art + Design and History and Philosophy, bridging the gap between academic disciplines and the vast world of art.

Despite not considering herself an artist in the traditional sense, Nigro found a unique way to contribute. Her project draws inspiration from The Librarian of Basra: A True Story from Iraq by Jeanette Winter, a book that has faced challenges for being considered "un-American" and for promoting the Koran.

"This is a nonfiction account, making it all the more powerful," she emphasizes. The story, which recounts a librarian's efforts to save a collection during the 2003 invasion of Iraq, resonates deeply with her. "As a veteran, reading stories about war can be difficult, especially when they're true. Yet, I believe books like this are important because they can educate and unite us, helping to ensure we don't repeat past mistakes."

Crafting a Message of Inclusivity

Her artistic contribution takes the form of a fabric activity book for children called a “quiet book.” One of the quotes she incorporated speaks volumes: "In the Koran, the first thing God said to Muhammad was 'Read.'"

"As a librarian, that quote really resonates with me," she shares. "While I'm not Islamic, I deeply appreciate its message. I also don't believe in banning this book just because of its religious context. We should all have the freedom to choose what we read, and it's a dangerous precedent when the government starts deciding that for us."

A Call for Respect and Understanding

When asked about her hopes for the project's impact, her response is clear and powerful: "I want people to respect differing opinions. What works for your family might not work for someone else's, and that's okay. It doesn't mean everyone has to follow your beliefs or choices."

She extends this philosophy to the broader issue of censorship. "Some of the laws we have are outdated and, frankly, ridiculous. We need to recognize that one size doesn't fit all. If you don't like a book, don't read it, but stop putting obstacles in the way of other readers."

The Power of Choice

The theme of choice emerges repeatedly. As both a librarian and a contributor to the Unbannable Library project, Nigro champions the right of individuals to make their own decisions about what they read. Her stance is not just professional but deeply personal, informed by her experiences as a librarian, a veteran, and a citizen concerned about the direction of censorship in our society.

Amid growing scrutiny of the written word, a librarian-turned-artist emerges as a testament to literature's ability to educate, unite, and inspire. Her involvement in the Unbannable Library project represents not only a compelling work of art but also a strong statement on the significance of intellectual freedom and respect for diverse perspectives.

Join us for an Unbannable Library Reception on Wednesday, Sept. 25, from 5 PM - 6 PM in the Woodward Library, room 232. This gathering offers a chance to connect with authors and illustrators featured in the Unbannable Library. Your presence and participation will enrich our ongoing dialogue about the value of diverse voices in literature. No RSVP required. All are welcome.