Veterans Day at UCC

Each year on Veterans Day (November 11), we pause to honor the courage, dedication, and sacrifice of the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Their commitment to protecting our freedoms and communities continues to inspire gratitude and reflection.

To observe this national holiday, UCC campus and the UCC Library will be closed on Tuesday November 11. Regular hours and services will resume on Wednesday, November 12.

As we take this day to reflect, we encourage our community to explore resources that share the stories and experiences of veterans across generations:

Featured books and eBooks:

• The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien

• ‪150 years of Oregon veterans presented by the Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs.

• ‪For love of country: what our veterans can teach us about citizenship, heroism, and sacrifice by Howard Shultz and Rajib Chandrasekaran

Check out our Databases to learn more:

• Academic Search Complete: Happiness in US military veterans: Results from a nationally representative study, and Re-evaluating disability assessment in war veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder.

• Gale Academic OneFile: INTO THE EXTREMES: How US Military engineers conquered sand, snow, and stardust, and Veterans Training Service Dogs for Other Veterans: An Animal-Assisted Intervention for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Watch and Learn on Kanopy:

• The Vietnam War, A Film by Ken Burns and Lynn Novick

• Service: When Women Come Marching Home

Veterans Day is more than a date on the calendar—it’s a time to honor those who have served and to recognize their lasting impact on our nation’s history and future.

Roots of Resilience: Native American History and Culture

Native American Heritage Month (November) is a time to celebrate the histories, cultures, and ongoing contributions of Indigenous peoples across the United States. At the UCC Library, we honor this month by highlighting Native voices that share stories of identity, resilience, and connection to the land.

Featured Titles:
 

Explore fiction, poetry, and nonfiction by Indigenous authors. Our physical collection feature inspiring works such as:

• ‪Native American ethnobotany by Daniel E. Moerman

• ‪You don't have to say you love me : a memoir By Sherman Alexie

• ‪The only good Indians : a novel by Stephen Graham Jones

Explore eBooks and our databases to learn Indigenous history, literature and activism:

Diversity Studies (Gale OneFile):  

• Seven Myths of Native American History

• The People Have Never Stopped Dancing: Native American Modern Dance Histories

Some eBooks include:‪

•  American Indian Sovereignty: The Struggle for Religious, Cultural and Tribal Independence‬‎ by Mark Hazlett II, 

• ‪Assembled for Use : Indigenous Compilation and the Archives of Early Native American Literatures‬‎ by Kelley Wisecup.

Jstor:

•  Native American Traditional and Alternative Medicine by Susan L. Johnston, 

• Song and Dance: Native American Religions and American History by Lawrence E. Sullivan.

Watch and Learn on Films On Demand:

• Native America (Season 2): Before meeting the Old World, the New World thrived with its own richness now, expeditions and recreations reveal how their clash forever changed history.

• Famous Americans: Native Americans: This program explores the rise of early American civilizations, the impact of European arrival, and the enduring legacy and challenges of Native American cultures.

We invite the UCC community to discover, read, and reflect this month. By engaging with these stories, we honor the creativity, strength, and enduring contributions of Native communities, past, present, and future.

Spooky Season at the Library

Halloween is the perfect time to explore the eerie side of our library! Whether you’re in the mood for a classic ghost story or curious about the history behind Halloween traditions, we’ve got plenty of books and databases to satisfy your spooky curiosity.

On the Shelves:
 

Looking for something to send chills down your spine? Try these timeless favorites:

• The Annotated Frankenstein by Mary Shelley: the original tale of science and horror.

• Novels and Stories: The Lottery, The Haunting of Hill House, we have always lived in the Castle, other stories and sketches by Shirley Jackson: haunting psychological masterpieces.

• The Martian Chronicles by Ray Bradbury: Short tales of aliens, only if you like sci-fi, but who doesn't.

In Our Databases:
 

Our digital collections are full of fascinating Halloween finds:

• Gale Literature (LitFinder): You can read such classic stories such as Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë, or if you are looking for something a little less scary such as The Hunchback of Notre Dame, by Victor Hugo.

  History Reference Source: See the Origins of the Jack O Lantern.

  Kanopy: stream classic horror films and documentaries right from home, like The Fog.

Whether you’re reading, researching, or just looking for a frightfully fun film night, the library has you covered. Stop by, or log in, and celebrate the season of scares with us.

Don't Forget!

Join us this Friday, October 31, for Spooky Movie Time! in the Library's Innovation room from 11 AM-4 PM!

Drop in at any time, whether you stay for one movie or the whole afternoon, you're welcome to come relax, hang out, and enjoy a lineup of spooky (but fun) films. It's the perfect way to take a break and get into the Halloween Spirit. We can't wait to see you there!

Happy Halloween!

International Pronouns Day: Respecting Identities, Building Inclusive Communities

October 15 marks International Pronouns Day, a time to reflect on the significance of respecting, sharing, and correctly using personal pronouns. At its core, this observance affirms the dignity of LGBTQ+ individuals while encouraging inclusive practices across classrooms, workplaces, and communities.

Why Pronouns Matter

Pronouns are a fundamental aspect of respectful communication. When misused, they can contribute to exclusion and marginalization; when affirmed, they strengthen belonging and support mental health. A Rainbow of Voices: The Experiences of Middle School LGBTQIA+ Students (via ProQuest: Publicly Available Content Databases) highlights how correct pronoun use contributes to improved emotional well-being and mental health for transgender and nonbinary youth.

Higher Education and Inclusion

On campus, pronoun awareness helps create a culture of respect and equity. Faculty, staff, and students who model inclusive language foster stronger community and better learning environments. Articles in ERIC (via EBSCOhost) and Gale OneFile: Gender Studies examine how inclusive practices contribute to student success and positive campus climate.

Explore Library Resources

The UCC Library provides access to databases where you can learn more:

• ProQuest: Publicly Available Content Databases – Research on LGBTQ+ issues and mental health, such as “What is known about gambling in lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and queer (LGBTQ+) communities? A scoping review.”

• JSTOR – Cultural studies on gender and identity, including “Gender Bias in the Classroom.”

• ERIC – Education focused research, like “Modelling Inclusive Education. The Didactic Model for Inclusive Teaching and Learning as a Heuristic for Inclusion Research and Teacher Education.”

• Gale OneFile: Gender Studies – Social and policy perspectives, for example “Indigenous social exclusion: insights and challenges for the concept of social inclusion.”

• EBSCO Discovery Service – Links you to reviews and scholarly commentaries, such as Gender: Your Guide: A Gender-Friendly Primer on What to Know, What to Say, and What to Do in the New Gender Culture by Lee Airton, a scholarly cited work that offers practical insight into navigating pronouns and gender-inclusive communication in everyday life.

Moving Forward

International Pronouns Day is more than symbolic; it’s an invitation to reflect on how language shapes experience. Small acts, like asking and sharing pronouns, contribute to a more welcoming and affirming community.

From Cover to Cultura

Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15 – Oct. 15) is a time to recognize the histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx communities in the U.S. At the UCC Library, we are proud to support this celebration by offering resources that highlight the depth and diversity of Latinx voices.

Featured Titles:

Explore fiction, poetry, and memoirs by influential writers. Our physical and digital collections also feature scholarly and contemporary titles such as:

• The House on Mango Street, by Sandra Cisneros

•  One Hundred Years of Solitude, by Gabriel García Márquez

• Nuestra América 30 Inspiring Latinas/Latinos Who Have Shaped the United States by Sabrina Vourvoulias

• ‪The Latino Student's Guide to STEM Careers‬‎ ‬‎By Laura I. Rendón and Vijay Kanagala

Watch and Learn on Kanopy

• Latino Americans: A landmark documentary series chronicling over 500 years of Latinx history in the U.S.

• Dolores: A compelling portrait of civil rights leader Dolores Huerta

Dig Deeper with Databases:

Leverage the library’s academic databases such as Gale Diversity Studies, and ERIC to explore Latinx history in Film, social movements, and key figures in depth. These platforms provide access to peer-reviewed articles, historical documents, and multimedia resources.

We also encourage participation in local events, exhibits, and programs that celebrate Latinx culture, through music, cuisine, art, and storytelling, to build greater understanding and connection beyond the classroom.

 Celebrate the Legacy of Colegio César Chávez 

As we honor Latin contributions to education and civil rights this August, the story of Colegio César Chávez stands out as a bold example of what student led, culturally grounded learning can achieve. Founded in 1973 in Mount Angel, Oregon, it was the first and only fully accredited, independent Chicano run college in the U.S. Rooted in the values of the Chicano Movement, the college prioritized bilingual education, community empowerment, and a model where students and faculty learned as equals. 

The college was named after César Chávez, the renowned labor leader and civil rights activist who co-founded the United Farm Workers (UFW) alongside Dolores Huerta. Born in 1927, Chávez dedicated his life to nonviolent activism, organizing farmworkers across the country to demand better wages, working conditions, and dignity. He believed deeply in education as a tool for liberation, making the naming of the college a fitting tribute to his vision of justice and collective empowerment.

One of its most innovative initiatives was the College Without Walls program, which allowed students to engage in self-directed, community-based learning outside the boundaries of a traditional campus. This approach affirmed that education could happen anywhere in neighborhoods, homes, workplaces, and grassroots organizations keeping students connected to their communities while pursuing academic and personal growth.

Though the college closed in 1983, its impact lives on in today’s movements for equity in education.

Now, that legacy is being celebrated through the exhibit Colegio César Chávez: The Legacy Lives On / El legado sigue vivo, on view at the Umpqua Community College Library through the end of August. More than just a history lesson, the exhibit is an invitation to imagine education rooted in culture, community, and self-determination, a vision as urgent today as it was in 1973. You can request to view items from the College grounds, and pictures that have been digitized here.

eBooks – Our collection includes a wide range of titles about César Chávez and his life including several insightful eBooks such as: César Chávez: Friend to Farm Workers, a children's book by Jeri Cipriano. This resource is a great way to teach children about César Chávez and his contributions.  The Political Spirituality of César Chávez: Crossing Religious Borders, by Luis D. Leon examines how Chávez drew from Catholicism, indigenous beliefs, and other spiritual traditions. The book reveals how this blend of faith shaped his approach to activism and social justice. The Words of César Chávez edited by Richard J. Jensen and John C. Hammerback, presents a collection of Chávez’s major speeches and writings, revealing the rhetorical power and strategies of a master communicator while offering valuable insight into the history of the farm workers' movement he led from the early 1960s until his death in 1993. To Serve the People : My Life Organizing with César Chávez and the Poor, By Leroy Chatfield with Jorge Mariscal, is a book about Leroy Chatfield and his experiences in activism and working with César Chávez. From the Jaws of Victory : The Triumph and Tragedy of César Chávez and the Farm Worker Movement by Matt Garcia is a comprehensive account of the rise and fall of the United Farm Workers, revealing how the union's groundbreaking grape boycott propelled its success while internal conflicts and César Chávez’s leadership challenges contributed to its decline.

At the UCC Library, we’re proud to support educational journeys that center equity, heritage, and history. As we honor the legacy of César Chávez and the groundbreaking work of Colegio César Chávez.

Let’s continue learning from the past and shaping a future where every student has the power to thrive. Stop on in and see the exhibit.

Step into the Past: Celebrate Renaissance Faires

Umpqua Community College is hosting a Renaissance Faire on July 19, 2025. This coincides with the College's production of Spamalot, a lovely musical based on Monty Python and the Holy Grail. The Sue Shaffer Learning Commons and Library invites you to celebrate the enchantment and educational value of Renaissance Faires, joyful gatherings that blend entertainment, history, and embrace the Riverhawk community spirit. 

Renaissance faires, often held throughout the summer and fall, celebrate the art, culture, and daily life of the Renaissance period (roughly the 14th to 17th centuries). These events invite attendees to engage with a world of historical reenactments, artisan crafts, period music, live theater, and educational demonstrations that illuminate one of the most dynamic periods in human history.

Don't forget beautiful paintings created in the Renaissance, such as the Mona Lisa (pictured above).

Whether you're donning a doublet or simply curious about life in the 1500s, the UCC Library offers a variety of resources to explore the rich tapestry of Renaissance life and learning:

Books and eBooks – Explore Fashions from that time period with Costume and Fashion Source books Elizabethan England, and The Medieval World, both by Kathy Elgin. Check out books about the Renaissance with: A Short History of the Renaissance in Northern Europe by Malcolm Vale, these works offer insight into politics, art, science, and society during the Renaissance.

Gale OneFile: Fine Arts – Access articles on Renaissance artists like Michelangelo, Leonardo, Raphael and Titan and how their art helped to shape the cultural rebirth of Europe by blending science, beauty, and human emotion in groundbreaking ways.

Gale OneFile: World History- Check out the thinkers of the time such as Galileo, and Machiavelli and explore how their ideas shaped the modern world.

Films on Demand – Watch engaging documentaries such as Renaissance, or Leonardo da Vinci: a two-part film series by Ken Burns, Sarah Burns and David McMahon which highlights Leonardo da Vinci's Life. 

Kanopy – Stream historical dramas and educational films like The Middle Ages around the World or The Private Life of Henry VIII, perfect for a deeper understanding of the theatrical and political world brought to life at fairs.

JSTOR – Delve into scholarly research about Renaissance festivals themselves—how they originated, what cultural purposes they serve today, and their educational potential as living history.

Renaissance faires are more than entertainment—they’re an opportunity to reflect on innovation, humanism, and the power of creativity in shaping societies. They encourage curiosity and community through playful yet profound connections to the past.

The UCC Library is here to support your journey into this fascinating historical period with curated resources and helpful guidance. We encourage you to visit a fair, explore our collections, and let history come alive.

Huzzah and happy exploring!

Celebrate Independence Day

Umpqua Community College and the Sue Shaffer Learning Commons and Library will be closed on Friday, July 4, in observance of Independence Day.

The Fourth of July commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, marking the birth of the United States as a sovereign nation. It’s a time to reflect on the values of liberty, democracy, and unity, while also engaging in thoughtful conversations about the ongoing work of shaping a more equitable and inclusive society.

The UCC Library invites you to explore the founding, evolution, and complexities of American democracy through a variety of digital resources. Whether you're researching historical events or examining modern civic issues, we offer access to a rich array of scholarly and streaming materials:

Books and eBooks – Discover works like 1776 by David McCullough, A People's History of the United States by Howard Zinn, and Alexander Hamilton: Making of America. These books provide varied perspectives on America's founding and evolution.

ERIC (Education Resources Information Center) – Research how civic education and American history are taught in schools, and how critical thinking and historical literacy are shaped in the classroom.

Gale OneFile: U.S. History – Dive into scholarly articles and historical records about the American Revolution, the writing of the Constitution, and key figures like Thomas Jefferson and Frederick Douglass.

Films on Demand – Watch educational documentaries like American Revolution, a powerful video on dissatisfaction of the American people under British rule.

Kanopy – Stream titles such as America the Story of Us and The Constitution Did Not Create a Democracy. These films are ideal for understanding the ideals and contradictions woven into U.S. history.

Explore JSTOR – Dive into journal articles, artwork, and more, including insightful pieces like this article on Fourth of July Myths—perfect for uncovering the stories behind the celebration.

America’s founding ideals, and the tensions between them and our lived realities, are essential to being informed, engaged citizens. The UCC Library is committed to fostering a space where historical inquiry, civic awareness, and thoughtful reflection thrive.

We hope you enjoy a safe and meaningful Fourth of July!

Celebrate Disability Pride Month & Helen Keller’s Legacy

Explore These Resources:

• The Story of My Life by Helen Keller
• The Complete Guide to Creating a Special Needs Life Plan: A Comprehensive Approach Integrating Life , Resource, Financial and Legal Planning To Ensure A Brighter Future For a Person With A Disability by Hal Wright

Explore African American History and Culture

Umpqua Community College and the Sue Shaffer Learning Commons and Library are closed on June 19th.

 June 19th marks Juneteenth, a significant day in American history commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. On this day in 1865, over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation, the last enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, were informed of their freedom. Juneteenth is a time to honor the strength, resilience, and contributions of African Americans, while also acknowledging the ongoing work toward racial equity and justice. The library invites you to engage with a variety of resources that celebrate Black voices and deepen understanding of this powerful legacy.

Our digital and physical collections highlight the richness of Black history, art, and activism. From personal narratives and historical accounts to cultural studies and documentaries, we invite you to explore the journey of Black Americans. The UCC Library is committed to creating an inclusive environment where all individuals can learn and grow. Whether you're researching African American history or exploring social justice topics, we offer:

• Gale OneFile: U.S. History – Access scholarly resources on pivotal moments like the Civil War, behind the scenes of the Civil War, Reconstruction, and the Civil Rights Movement. Don’t miss this article on the Juneteenth Monument.

• Kanopy – Stream powerful films that tell Black stories, such as this collection from the University of Southern California Cinematic Arts. There is also this series called Roots, which is about one family's journey through slavery and wants to preserve their legacy.

• Books and eBooks: Featuring fiction, nonfiction, and poetry from Black authors and thinkers, including works like The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson and the book The Light of the World by Elizabeth Alexander. Poetry includes The Collected Poems of Langston Hughes. 

• Films on Demand – Watch educational documentaries such as Slavery and the Making of America, which traces the history of slavery and its enduring impact.

• ERIC – Explore research on African American education, equity in schools, and inclusive curriculum development.

Understanding history is key to creating a more just future. The library supports this through tools that promote critical thinking and dialogue around systemic racism, cultural identity, and activism.