home Ellis Library, Resources and Services Peer Navigator Corner: Ellis Library – An Architectural Perspective

Peer Navigator Corner: Ellis Library – An Architectural Perspective

Written by: Ahmad Bahir Sherzad

As an architecture student learning about the importance of how principles of architecture affect people’s mood in a space, I wanted to touch on it as a new peer navigator who has walked Ellis Library more times than I can count. In understanding architectural principles and elements, we can have a better understanding of the purpose of different sections of Ellis Library before visiting. In this post, I’ll share a closer look at two of Ellis Library’s most popular study spots – the ground-floor atrium study space and the General Reading Room (201) on the second floor – and how their unique architecture might shape your study experience.

The ground-floor study area near the atrium stairs was added after the original 1915 construction and is now open 24/5. The space consists of a coffee shop-style seating around a small student-run cafe under a structure of stairs that lead to the first floor. When it comes to stratification by the architects of Ellis, the floor consists of many different styled seating options on simple marbled square tiling. It is also crowded with various maps and pieces for spectator viewing on display in booths built into the wall. The head of the space features low-hanging lights and a variety of ceiling heights. Near the doors, the ceilings are raised all the way until the top of the first floor, while under the stairs, of course, they are much lower. The atrium goes from a naturally lit entrance to a cozy, somber, and dark area under the stairs and around the small cafe. All these characteristics create a sense of movement, productivity, and openness to the space.

Diving into the movement, transition, hierarchy, and heart of the ground-floor study space, one can see there is a heavy amount of transitional energy. The main entry is from two sets of large glass doors that lead from the Speakers Circle into Ellis Library. Almost mall-like, the doors are purposely designed to coordinate safety and transition of a vast number of students exiting and entering the library, with one being designated exclusively as an entrance and the other as an exit. Most people enter from glass doors near a large information desk facing into the space all the way towards the back of the study area, where the cafe can be found tucked into the corner. Movement is random in the cafe area, but follows a strict order closer to the desk and openings. The hierarchy of the space is mostly overpowered by the large stairs that lead to the second floor and encompass most of the body of the space. The small coffee tables and booths are given secondary focus, while two large bar-style tables serve as the primary focus when it comes to seating. The space is hectic and loud compared to every other space in Ellis; at no time will you ever hear a pen drop. The cafe in the corner does not pull much of the attention of the space, but rather the heart of the space is the wood and glass-adorned stairs that can be seen from every angle of the atrium. The height of the ceilings upon entrance and the vastness of the stars instantly draw students’ attention and guide them through the space.

The Main Reading Room, originally called the General Reading Room, in Ellis Library at Mizzou was created in 1915 when the library was constructed. The Main Reading Room of Ellis Library is a massive, long, rectangular space defined by two parallel walls. It is organized around a central axis split long ways down the rectangle with rows of brown library tables perpendicular to the walls. When it comes to the stratification of the long linear space, the floor of the Main Reading Room has brown rectangular tables in four long columns filling the vast space, and is surrounded by book-lined walls. The table and chairs are worn by university students over time. As for the body of the room, tall arched windows on the north wall fill the space with natural light, and subtle brown metal molding disguised as wood and white paint cover the vast size of the walls. This stratum creates a feeling of awe and openness in the space. The head of the Main Reading Room features a large, curved ceiling with raised wave motifs and hanging rectangular lights. The curved ceiling immediately creates a sense of awe in any user and adds vastly to the space, honoring its name as the “main” reading room of Ellis Library. The raised ceiling creates a sense of contrast to other spaces in the library. All these create a sense of order, calm, and academic focus.

When it comes to the qualitative aspect of the Grand Reading Room in Ellis Library, the natural light from multiple vast arched windows creates both mood and visibility for students in the space. They allow warm natural light to fill every part of the room, creating a sense of awe and beauty. The light white walls and wood details suggest tradition and purpose. It is a semi-enclosed space within the larger library structure, with three entrances that bring you into a space that is eerily silent compared to the rest of the library, which is quite ironic. The main focus is on the grand windows on one side that define the spatial “heart” of the space. In terms of movement, transition, hierarchy, and heart of the Main Reading Room, the main entry is from the south side between two white columns with a capital on top of both. There is minimal movement in the space due to the silent atmosphere in the room. The movement, or so-called transition, follows the axis, down rows of tables, looking for open seats. The movement at times is also random and hectic across different axes as people look for spaces to inhabit and study, not too close to anyone else. When it comes to the hierarchy of the reading room, the large study tables are the primary focus, and a couple of lounge chairs at the west end are secondary. The heart of the room and even Ellis Library itself are the large windows that draw the eye instantly, define the user’s mood, and set the tone.

Whether you are looking for a more traditional and silent study area or an energizing space, Ellis Library offers both in its intentional designs. To learn more about the history and architecture of Ellis Library, I would highly encourage you to visit the following website, full of archives of Ellis construction photos and of many other study spaces on campus.

https://muarchives.missouri.edu/historic/buildings/ellis/

home Gateway Carousel, Resources and Services Peer Navigator Corner: What’s New with Discover@MU

Peer Navigator Corner: What’s New with Discover@MU

Written by: Isabella Bickhaus

If you’ve used the Discover@MU search bar on the library’s home page before this semester, you might be surprised to find a new interface. Beyond the homepage, this interface change includes all databases sold by EBSCO, including favorites like PsycInfo and ERIC. 

One improved feature is the “Peer-Reviewed (Academic) Journals” filter, which is found underneath the search bar after an initial search. Although this was a feature on the old interface, it is now easier to find and apply for research projects that require peer-reviewed sources. Quick tip: if you apply this filter, it will apply to future searches until you turn it off. 

Along with a change in aesthetics, the new interface offers several new exciting features, like a concept map. To access this tool, make your initial search through the Discover@MU search bar and then you’ll find it on the left-hand side toolbar underneath “Research Tools.” This will take you to a new tab where you can view concepts related to your search in a grid or map format. This tool could be helpful brainstorming in the early stages of research for a project or paper, or to deepen your understanding of the context surrounding a specific topic. 

Another new component of this interface is the natural language search option. While searching the way you have in Google has always been a part of the Discovery layer, this AI tool expands on your search by looking for similar terms. Like the concept map, you will first have to make an initial search on the Discover@MU search bar. Underneath the filters at the top of the page, there is an option to turn on natural language search. If you’re new to researching, this tool could be a helpful starting point and can find different resources than the advanced search. 

In addition to concept maps and natural language search, you can now easily access your personal dashboard through the left-hand side toolbar. Here, your project folders, saved articles and searches, recent activity, requests, loans, and journal alerts are found. If your project folders didn’t migrate to the new interface, this LibGuide gives detailed instructions on how to retrieve them.

For any questions or concerns, the LibGuide previously mentioned or the feedback option on the right sidebar are great places to start. However, if you would like research help, using the live chat on the bottom right or scheduling a consultation with a research librarian are still excellent options. Happy Researching!

home Ellis Library, Gateway Carousel, Resources and Services Peer Navigator Corner: Do’s and Don’ts of Ellis Library

Peer Navigator Corner: Do’s and Don’ts of Ellis Library

Written by: Mekenzie Moffet

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or regular, Ellis Library is one of the best places on campus to study, research, or just relax between classes. To help everyone have a great experience, here are some quick Do’s & Don’ts to keep in mind:

DO:

  • Find Your Study Spot – explore all of Ellis and figure out where you thrive best, whether that be in one of our quiet spaces or maybe downstairs at the cafe with bustling people around you.
  • Use Group Study Rooms – Reserve one of our many study rooms for you and your classmates if you need to collaborate.
    • Reserve a study spot here
  • Take Advantage of Resources – Don’t forget about the Digital Media Lab, the writing tutors in Room 115, and all the databases you have access to by being a student. Another important tip is to use the librarian chat on our website if you have any research questions for a quick response.
  • Respect Shared Spaces – Keep your voices low in quiet zones and share tables during fairly busy times.

DON’T:

  • Don’t Bring Full Meals – Drinks with lids and small snacks are fine, but full meals should be eaten by the Bookmark Cafe to keep our space clean.
  • Don’t Leave Belongings Unattended for Long – Not only can items get lost, but unattended belongings could get taken and take space from your peers.
  • Don’t Distract Others – Avoid loud conversations, phone calls, or playing video games without headphones.
    • Pro Tip: You can check out headphones from the circulation desk!
  • Don’t Be Afraid to Ask The Peer Navigators for Anything – We are here for you and to answer any questions you may have while you’re at the library.

PRO TIPS:

  • If you lose a belonging or come across an item that was left behind, go and see the West Security Desk and they will take care of you!
  • Bookmark Cafe has great coffee and a way shorter line than Starbucks in Memorial, and they also have microwaves to warm up your lunch.
  • Follow the library on social media for updates on events, workshops, and funny videos.
home Ellis Library, Resources and Services Peer Navigator Corner: Equipment Checkout

Peer Navigator Corner: Equipment Checkout

Written by: Libby Gremaud

Ellis Library has so much more to check out than just books. There are tons of different electronics, and a surprising assortment of other materials that can be borrowed from our Checkout and Information Desk. While some of these items you can only use in the library, lots of them can be taken out of the building so you can use them wherever you like.

If you ever need to use a laptop, you can check out either a Dell or a Mac computer. Both can only be used in the library, but they can be borrowed for up to four hours. You can also check out an iPad 9th generation, which can be taken out of the library for up to 3 days. The iPad comes with a charger, an adapter, and a case. Projectors and flash drives are also available, and they can both be checked out for up to 24 hours. 

If your phone or laptop ever dies while you’re on campus, no worries! You can borrow several different kinds of chargers for up to four hours. Supplies such as whiteboard markers, staplers, three-hole punches, headphones, or rulers can also be borrowed from the desk.

One of the best things about Mizzou is that we have so many libraries that all offer something special. If what you need isn’t available at Ellis, it might be at one of our other libraries. The Journalism Library offers CD and DVD players, along with lots of other special cameras and media equipment. If you’re looking for coloring supplies, head to the engineering library, where you can also check out one of the several board games they offer. All of our libraries on campus also allow you to check out umbrellas, which can be handy if you forget yours!

The next time you need something, take a look at our Equipment Lending Guide to see if it is available to be borrowed. These are just some examples of the various things our libraries offer, so make sure to check it out!

home Resources and Services Peer Navigator Corner: Ellis Auditorium (Room 21)

Peer Navigator Corner: Ellis Auditorium (Room 21)

Written by: Sophie Lanzone

Ellis Library is the largest library on campus and serves as a central hub for academic resources and student study space. The library’s design emphasizes a quiet, conducive environment for studying and research. Inside, there are multiple floors with areas designated for individual study, group work, and collaborative learning. The building also hosts the completely disconnected classroom known as Ellis Auditorium, or Room 21.

Ellis Auditorium (room 21) serves as a large lecture hall often used for classes. The room layout is in tiered rows, has max capacity of 200, and is equipped with technology to facilitate learning and collaboration. If you have never been to room 21 before, the exact location can be confusing. Most people think it can be accessed through the main floors of Ellis Library, but the entrance is actually outside on the west side of the building, closer to Lowry Mall. From inside the library, go out the West Entrance at the Ground Level. Once you exit, turn right and walk down toward Lowry Mall until you see the Auditorium Entrance. There should be a sign that shows you have made it to the correct classroom.

If you have trouble finding room 21, you can always look at the library’s website for help. Go to the University of Missouri Library website and click on “Maps & Floorplans” in the top right corner. Once you click that, it will take you to a page with all of our Library locations on it. Once you click on Ellis, scroll down and under “Find Your Way Around Ellis Library,” click on “Ground Floor.”  Ellis Auditorium Classroom 21 is in the top left corner in green. You can then follow the directions provided earlier with this visual to help you access the classroom. As always, never be afraid to ask questions if needed, including at the Peer Navigator desk on the first floor!

home Ellis Library Peer Navigator Corner: Student Employment in Ellis

Peer Navigator Corner: Student Employment in Ellis

Written by: Alyssa Westhoff

For the past two years, I have had the privilege of working as a Peer Navigator at Ellis Library. Not only have I been able to help fellow students navigate the Libraries’ resources, but I’ve also had the chance to enhance my own knowledge of what the library offers while gaining valuable communication and customer service experience. Ellis is in what I consider to be the perfect location for a student job.

As a Peer Navigator, I give directions, help with printing, assist students with finding books or other research materials. Ellis offers a variety of other student worker positions in different departments, and I often get asked how others can apply for similar roles. Here’s a list of some of the departments that hire student workers:

  • Bookmark Café: If you love coffee and are seeking a customer-facing role, working as a barista at Bookmark Café could be a perfect fit for you. 
  • Circulation Desk: As an Information Assistant at the Circulation Desk, you’d help students check out books, guide them through the library’s systems, and assist with general inquiries.
  • Shelving Team: The shelving team is responsible for organizing and maintaining the library’s collections. They ensure that books and other materials are accurately shelved, properly organized, and easily accessible to patrons.
  • Safety Team: Our safety officers patrol the library and supervise the entrances to ensure a secure and welcoming environment, making sure everything runs smoothly and safely within. 
  • Digital Media Lab: For those with an interest in technology, the Digital Media Lab provides resources for multimedia creation. These staff members help students use specialized equipment and software to create podcasts, videos, 3D images, and more.
  • Division of IT Help Station: If you’re skilled at troubleshooting technology issues and enjoy helping others resolve their tech problems, this position is a great opportunity to assist students with their IT-related questions.
  • Writing Center: If you have strong writing skills, being a writing tutor allows you to assist other students with their writing assignments, from brainstorming ideas to editing their papers.
  • Peer Navigators: As Peer Navigators, we assist patrons by providing guidance on library resources, navigating the building, and offering support with research and technology.

If you’re interested in applying for one of these positions, the good news is that several resources are available to help you find open job postings. eRecruit is an internal job resource where you can find positions specifically for MU students. Handshake is another resource which is not only used for on-campus jobs but also features opportunities with external employers for both MU students and alumni. Some of the positions listed above are hired through the Libraries, but others are hired through campus dining, campus IT, and the Student Success Center.

Whether you’re looking for a job that’s conveniently located, offers flexible hours, or helps you build valuable skills, there’s likely a position at Ellis Library that fits your needs. Good luck with your applications!

home Government Information Peer Navigator Corner: Government Documents

Peer Navigator Corner: Government Documents

Written by: Sophie Lanzone

Ellis Library has a diverse set of collections, including our extensive section on Government Documents. The library has been a participant in the Federal Depository Library Program (FDLP) since 1862, which allows it to provide public access to a wide range of federal government publications. These documents are located on the east side of the first floor and include various types of government information, such as agency reports, appropriations, census data, and Supreme Court decisions. The collection offers a rich source of historical and current information that can support research in fields like education, social work, political science, economics, public policy, law, and history.

In addition to federal documents, Ellis Library also holds Missouri state government documents. These publications are integrated into the general library collections under standard call numbers, such as the Library of Congress or Dewey Decimal system, making them easy to find alongside other academic materials. The library also maintains government documents in microfiche format, which are stored in drawers near the Government Documents office. Students and faculty studying political science or are just interested in public policy can use federal and state reports to analyze the effects of government decisions and track policy changes over time. Students can use these resources to develop case studies, research papers, and presentations. The accessibility and diversity of government documents make them a critical resource for anyone seeking to understand the workings of government and its influence on various aspects of society.

When you navigate to the Government Documents tab under “Libraries & Collections,” you’ll find a comprehensive guide to various government documents. On the left side, you can choose between Federal or Missouri documents. The guide includes resources like agency reports, census data, appropriations, and Supreme Court decisions, organized alphabetically by document type. Use the left navigation bar for more details on federal, state, or local information. You can access the guide here. You can also explore the Government Documents Policy and Procedure Guide, which outlines the collection’s various aspects. For example, the maps section includes national park maps, army mapping services, jet navigation charts, tactical pilotage charts, and more. To learn more about different resources, you can access the guide here.

For assistance in locating and using these resources, the Government Documents office is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. The staff can help guide researchers to the appropriate materials and provide insight into how to navigate the collection effectively. This ensures that students and researchers can make the most of the extensive government document resources available at Ellis Library.

home Zalk Veterinary Medical Library Peer Navigator Corner: Veterinary Medical Library

Peer Navigator Corner: Veterinary Medical Library

Written by: Mekenzie Moffet

The Zalk Veterinary Medical Library (VML) is more than just a library—it’s a warm, inviting space designed to support students. Located within the College of Veterinary Medicine, the VML provides a cozy yet resource-packed environment perfect for studying, researching, or simply finding a quiet moment to focus. As a bonus, it’s also right next to Buck’s ice cream!

Just like Mizzou’s other libraries, the VML is home to friendly and knowledgeable research librarians who are always happy to help. Whether you need guidance on finding the perfect article, navigating tricky databases, or even just discovering a great book, they’ve got your back. Our head librarian, Jara Anderson, is an expert in multiple subjects, making her a fantastic resource for students. With access to anatomical models, veterinary videos, and digital resources, the VML is a treasure trove of learning materials designed to help you succeed.

Beyond its extensive research support and collection, the VML is also one of the best study spots on campus. Whether you’re looking for a quiet nook to get lost in a book, a comfortable space to grind through last-minute assignments, or a collaborative area to tackle group projects, you’ll find the perfect spot here. And if you ever need a resource the library doesn’t have on hand, interlibrary loan services and partnerships with other institutions ensure you always have access to the latest veterinary research.

No matter if you’re here to hit the books, escape for some peaceful study time, or get expert help from a librarian, the VML is ready to welcome you with open arms! So, come take a look and find out where you study best.

home Ellis Library Peer Navigator Corner: Ellis (The Person, Not the Place)

Peer Navigator Corner: Ellis (The Person, Not the Place)

Written by: Isabella Bickhaus

Common questions surrounding the library often include: Where’s Ellis? What’s Ellis? When’s Ellis open? But here’s a question that might not be asked as frequently: Who’s Ellis? 

The main library on MU’s campus was named after Elmer Ellis in 1971 by the Board of Curators. From 1955 to 1966, Ellis served as the 13th president of MU. Because of his dedication to the library before and during his term, the library thrived. His dedication plaque can be found outside the Lowry Mall entrance at the bottom of the lampposts. 

Before Ellis assumed the role of President, he served on the campus Library Committee with two other faculty members. In this committee, they were tasked to allocate funds for books and journals between different academic departments and also to hire a new librarian. Perhaps most significantly, this committee also oversaw the plans for the west-wing addition in the library in 1936, which significantly increased storage and study space. At the same time the west wing was added, building the west stacks doubled the number of books the library could hold. Today, the west side of the library houses a variety of things, including Special Collections on the fourth floor, the cast gallery and study space on the second floor, study space on the first floor, and Ellis Auditorium on the ground floor. 

During his term as President, the library was becoming crowded again even after the west wing addition. In 1958, the library was expanded further with an east wing addition, creating more space and adding symmetry to the library’s north facade. Today, the east wing houses the east stacks on floors two through four, administrative offices and government documents on the first floor, and museums on the ground floor. The library grew physically and technologically during his term, surpassing 1 million volumes, transitioning from Dewey to Library of Congress classification, and installing an IBM circulation system. In addition to the physical and technological expansion of the library, Ellis sought and gained approval to create an accredited graduate program for Library and Information Science, and he appointed a committee to find a head of this new school. This program is still in existence today and educates librarians for the state of Missouri and beyond. 

Sources: Ellis Old and New Libguide, The History of the University of Missouri-Columbia Library by June LaFollette DeWeese, My Road to Emeritus by Elmer Ellis

home Resources and Services Peer Navigator Corner: MU Law Library

Peer Navigator Corner: MU Law Library

Written by: Josiah Abbot

While you may be aware of the many books and resources available through Ellis Library, if you are looking to do any legal research, turn no further than our Law Library. For example, if you are a social work student looking at policy or a political science major researching law. Reference services are available from 10 am to 4 pm on weekdays, but the library is open to all students from 7:30 am to 5 pm on weekdays, with shorter hours on the weekend. Due to space constraints, non-law students cannot use the library for general study. However, you can access resources through the Reference Alcove after checking in at their front desk. This space offers access to Westlaw software, a powerful legal database. Within this database, you can find numerous documents ranging from case law to statutes to secondary law sources. You can email yourself several of these sources a day and the limit resets each day. Within the Alcove you will also find a “Reference Student,” similar to the Ellis Peer Navigators. If you are unsure of what you are looking for or where best to find it, they can help point you in the right direction. 

If you would rather research from home, you can still access some of the Law Library’s online databases. When you navigate to their webpage, click on the “Law Library” drop-down menu and then select student resources.

Under the “Legal Research” subsection you can find a link to their database list – any databases with an MU logo are open to any MU students, while the rest you would need to be in the Law Library to access.

One great resource they recommend is HeinOnline, a comprehensive source of treaties and international agreements that the United States is part of. It also has law and law-related periodicals. One reason students often choose HeinOnline is that its sources have a PDF structure, making it easy to transfer documents and cite your information.

Another useful resource available to all students is their databases on intellectual property. The “Intellectual Property Law Collection” will allow you to access cases relating to patent law. For more on patent issuances and treatises (these can be anything from the design of your Starbucks cup to NASA spaceships and Phantom of the Opera’s stage!), you can access a different database through VitalLaw (titled “Intellectual Property” within their database list). VitalLaw allows you to find Patent and Trademark Office documents for things like Pfizer rulings from the PTO.

If online databases are not your style and you prefer physical copies of resources, you can always take a look at print materials. Similarly to how you would search for books from Ellis, their books, periodicals, and journals can be found through the Libraries Discover layer. Once you’ve started a search, on the side panel under location, you can filter down to only resources from the Law Library. Journals can be reviewed onsite, and when you checkout books you can choose from any pickup location as you would normally be able to. 

Altogether, the Law Library is a great resource for students. If you are in a class and need to research a project that is closely related to law, accessing their resources could greatly benefit you. Even if you don’t have a project, they have a variety of specific resources that are interesting to check out.