New: Digital Shenbao

MSE library recently acquired digitized Shenbao collection, a prominent primary source for China Studies. Shenbao is one of the first modern Chinese newspapers. It is the most influential and longest […]


African Writers

When the discipline of English was formed in the 19th century, to promote a sense of national belonging, literary studies were organized along national lines. Literature in English meant, first and […]


Freebies

If you believe, as I do, that the best things in life are free, then you’re going to love the Book Thing. Located at 3001 Vineyard Lane, just a block […]


Thank You W. S. Merwin

For many years of wonderful poetry! The U.S. national poet laureate for 2010-2011—technically, the “Poet Laureate Consultant in Poetry”—was appointed in July by the Librarian of Congress. It is William Stanley Merwin, who […]


John Waters Book Signing

The word “bibliophile” conjures a certain image: horn-rimmed glasses and cardigans, sure. But cult filmmaker?! It’s true! With nearly 8,500 books in his personal collection, Baltimore’s own John Waters is […]


The Rock Bottom Remainders

As summer winds down and the spectre of classes, course readings, and assignments looms, take these last few days for some non-academic reading. Casting around for a book recommendation?  If you’re […]


Stars of Sci Fi

Quite a few noteworthy sci fi authors were born in August: James Tiptree, Brian Aldiss, even Gene Roddenberry! Our last installment for the year will introduce you to Greg Bear […]