Hastings, Neb. – Call it the library that Kool-Aid built.
In August 1960, Edwin E. Perkins, the inventor of the iconic soft drink first produced in Hastings, Neb., and his wife, Kathryn, approached Hastings College about donating a library to the college. Completed and dedicated three years later at the 1963 Hastings College Commencement Exercises, Perkins Library still serves the college’s demands, albeit through much different means.
“We constantly strive for innovative ways to serve Hastings College students, faculty and staff and the community by providing research assistance, access to online information and a comfortable environment for research and study,” said Bob Nedderman, Professor of Library Science and Director of Libraries.
Gone are students’ typing room, the record listening station and card catalogs the facility boasted at its opening. Not only does the facility now include a computer lab, extensive DVD and board game collections, comfy couches and coffee, the librarians allow talking – at least on the first floor.
Expect plenty of talking and reminiscing as Hastings College celebrates Perkins Library’s 50th birthday November 19-22. The public is invited to participate in the free events below.
“We hope that Hastings College alumni and former student workers stop by for these events,” Nedderman said. “We look forward to the community’s help with the 50 Hour Read-A-Thon.”
Starting at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, November 19, friends of Perkins Library can sign up for a 50 Hour Read-A-Thon in honor of each year the library has existed. All of the hours will take place during the library’s regular hours. To sign up, contact Susan Franklin, Associate Professor of Library Science and Public Services Librarian, at sfranklin@hastings.edu.
Perkins Library 50th Birthday Celebration
Tuesday, November 19
1 p.m. — Opening Reception with Kool-Aid and cake
The 50 Hour Read-A-Thon begins at 1 p.m. and will continue from 7:30 a.m. To sign up to read, contact Susan Franklin at sfranklin@hastings.edu.
Midnight — The 50 Hour Read-A-Thon concludes for the day.
Wednesday, November 20 and Thursday, November 21
7:30 a.m.- Midnight — The 50 Hour Read-A-Thon continues.
To sign up to read, contact Susan Franklin at sfranklin@hastings.edu.
Friday, November 22
8 a.m.-2 p.m. — The 50 Hour Read-A-Thon concludes.
