On Aug. 22, 1,550 first-year students and their families visited Kelvin Smith Library to attend the Information Fair, one of the first events during new student Orientation Week. 46 groups representing various campus offices and departments gathered on the library’s first and second floors, ready to welcome the Class of 2026 to campus. Attendees learned about the many resources available at Case Western Reserve University and were able to speak one-on-one with campus representatives, get questions answered and engage with groups that interest them.
Kelvin Smith Library was represented at the fair by the Library Advisors and The Gaming Committee. Each first-year undergraduate is matched with a member of the library’s research team who serves as their Library Advisor. Students spoke with the individuals who will guide them through library services, help develop search strategies, provide research assistance and meet with them throughout their university experience. The Gaming Committee organizes a monthly board game night for students to connect socially in the library space, enjoy refreshments and play games. Students were enthusiastic when learning of this opportunity, which resulted in a successful first game night of the semester.
Library staff volunteers popped popcorn and facilitated a photo booth, snapping instant photos of families and new friends. The Class of 2026 used pins on World and U.S. maps to share their homes—highlighting the diversity of the class, who collectively speak 57 languages and have citizenship in a total of 70 countries.
The library staff looks forward each year to engaging with the new group of students during the Information Fair and beyond. Kelvin Smith Library has been buzzing with student activity ever since!