January 20: Consider a brief encounter + Dr. Nyle Fort's Reading List + Book of the Week

Novellas, essays, and super short reads--perfect for a mod break or in between reading for classes. Looking to kickstart your reading life in 2022? Consider a brief encounter--texts at 200ish and under pages meant to be enjoyed in one sitting. These titles feature a wide range of topics--from lived experience and identity, to politics, philosophy, imagined fantasy, and social justice. Don't see something that peaks your interest? Ask a librarian. We have tons more of these small texts to suggest. Check out the collection here--it features many more titles than are currently on display in the magazine flats.

Dr. Nyle Fort, CSW's MLK Jr. Day speaker, discussed the importance of reading and diving into the works of scholars that both discuss the African American experience, oppression, and freedom, but also the mythologizing of MLK Jr. we often do on and around this day. The CSW Library has compiled a list of Dr. Fort's suggested readings--both from titles he mentioned during his talk and ones endorsed on his social media--and incudes both fiction and non fiction. It also includes articles he's mentioned or written. A work in progress, this list will continue to grow, so check back often. 

Each week, the CSW Library highlights one title in our BOOK OF THE WEEK feature to help you choose (or not choose) your next read.

A defiantly joyful adventure set in California's San Gabriel Valley, with cursed violins, Faustian bargains, and queer alien courtship over fresh-made donuts.