University at Buffalo - The State University of New York

By ANN WHITCHER-GENTZKE

Published: February 18, 2009

Reading is recession-proof, employees in University Communications (UC) are discovering. It’s also a pleasant way to spur camaraderie and encourage staff discussion about mutual interests.

When members of the “Talking Heads” committee brainstormed about ideas to improve office rapport, a library seemed a natural for UC, where staff members are charged with creative, publications and media work on behalf of UB. It also would help support the merging of two departments following a 2008 administrative reorganization. Many on the 40-member UC staff found themselves working with new colleagues, as different teams were formed or realigned.

Situated in an attractive common area within the 7,000-square-foot suite on the third floor of Crofts Hall, the UC bookshelf contains about 150 books, CDs, DVDs and magazines, all donated by staff. Titles run the gamut from classics and leisure topics to edgy contemporary works, bestsellers and book-club favorites. In the back of each book is an old-fashioned library pocket and card—readers are asked to leave their name when returning the book to foster discussion with those who might read it later. Borrowing terms are flexible and hassle-free; there are no late fees and the lending period is open-ended, although one month is recommended.

“It’s a wonderful, out-of-the-box idea that brings the office together through our common interest in literature and films, tapping into our shared desire to teach others,” says Hugh Jarvis, UC cybrarian. “[It’s] even more credible for the elegance of its simplicity and zero-budget approach.”

On Jan. 28, the library sponsored a lunchtime screening of one of its DVD holdings, “The Wrath of God,” the History Channel’s documentary about Buffalo’s infamous blizzard of ’77.

“The ‘blizzard’ screening wasn’t about a book per se,” says Charles Anzalone, media relations senior editor. “But our gathering to celebrate the 32nd anniversary of the blizzard—complete with History Channel docudrama and snowy doughnuts and the howling wind outside the windows—was a classic team-building exercise if I ever saw one. We all laughed and got choked up together, regardless of what wing of the office we work in.”