The Mortola Library is equipped to be a one-stop shop for all of a student’s study needs with different study zones, all sorts of desk setups, and a plethora of resources to assist with research. In addition to the expected resources, the Mortola Library also runs amazing events and provides a lot of activities that many students are unaware of.

The Mortola Library staff runs different events annually, monthly, and bi-weekly. These events include a live murder mystery, board game nights, and therapy dog visits. While these are the traditional events, the library also runs other programs at different times throughout the semester.

Murder Mystery Night is, undeniably, the largest event that the Mortola Library runs each year. In February, the library hosted its third annual Murder Mystery Night with Murder at the Deadwood Saloon. Students were notified of the event over the winter intersession and given time to pick from one of 20 main roles, but any students could attend and pick from a pool of general roles once all of the main roles had filled. Each role came with different assignments, personal details, and costume suggestions that allowed students to get into character.

From there, the library was transformed into a saloon for the night, complete with many handmade props, photo backdrops, and themed snacks. Each student played a role in solving the murder, and students were encouraged to socialize and to try and gain as much information as possible. At the end of the night, students were awarded for their performances and participation with prize horseshoes.

While Murder Mystery Night took the place of Game Night in February, Game Night made a return for the semester this past Friday. This event supplies students with many board games and pizza for attendees. Students who win games with four or more players also get a chance to be featured on the “Wall of Awesome.” Typically, Game Night is the first Friday of every month and all students are welcome.

The library also sponsors therapy dog visits every other Wednesday, along with many other fun activities available within the library. For instance, there is always a puzzle available to work on as soon as you walk in. Currently, the puzzle being worked on was designed by a student in a library contest, and this contest is set to run again sometime this semester. The library also has cots for students to get some shuteye in between study sessions, and there are fit desks if students want to move around while they work.

While these are just some of the activities ran by the Mortola Library, the library staff is always looking to provide lots of fun for the students. Any student is able to come to any of these events or to enjoy any of the activities, and all of these programs will be returning in the future for any students that would like to attend.