QUOTE OF THE WEEK

In A Tale of Two Cities, Charles Dickens wrote, “Nothing that we do, is done in vain. I believe, with all my soul, that we shall see triumph.”

Happy Midterms Week, Wildcats! Midterms week is not a fun time for anyone, whether you’re cramming for exams or feverishly writing essays. It’s undeniably hard work, but it’s not work done in vain. If you work hard, I truly believe that triumph will follow. This goes for any work you’ll encounter in your lives. Triumph is often preceded by hard work.

So, while still maintaining your mental health, put your best foot forward this midterms week. It might be hard to think forward when you’re stressed, but it will make your life easier come finals. And it might just make fall break taste even sweeter.

THIS WEEK AT FALVEY

Monday, October 2

Mindfulness Monday | 1-1:30 p.m. | Devon Room, Connelly Center | Virtual Option | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to Villanova Students, Faculty, & Staff

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Tuesday, October 3

Power Through Midterms with Falvey Library | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | Falvey Library First Floor | Free & Open to the Public | Light Refreshments Served

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

History of Puerto Ricans in Philadelphia Event | 5-8:30 p.m. | Riley Ellipse and The John and Joan Mullen Center for the Performing Arts | Ticket Reservations Available Here

Wednesday October 4

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Philosophy and Film Series on “Creativity and Madness”: Bruno Nuytten’s Camille Claudel (1989) | 5:30 p.m. | Room 415 | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to Villanova Community | Light Refreshments Served

Thursday, October 5

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

HOLIDAYS THIS WEEK

Photo by Nathan Lemon on Unsplash

If you’re a fan of thrift shopping, today, Oct. 2 is National Consignment Day. Secondhand shopping is better for the environment, and, as a bonus, you might find some super unique pieces to add to your wardrobe.

Get in, losers, tomorrow, Oct. 3, is Mean Girls Day. If you need to relax for a few hours, watch Mean Girls, the arguably one of the most iconic movies from the 2000s and, for some, a comfort movie. If you want more comfort movie recommendations, check out GA Rebecca’s blog from last week.

Need a tasty reward for all the hard work you put into studying for midterms? Wednesday, Oct. 4, is National Cinnamon Roll Day. Whether you think they’re a dessert or a breakfast food, this warm treat is the perfect excuse to take a break from studying and enjoy some fall vibes. In my personal opinion, cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed during a cozy movie night.

Thursday, Oct. 5, is National Do Something Nice Day. In this stressful time, it’s important to come together as a Villanova community. If you’re in the mood to celebrate, do something nice for a fellow Villanovan this Thursday.

If you want to enjoy your break by reading something other than a textbook and your notes, Saturday, Oct. 7, is Let Freedom Read Day, the wrap-up of Banned Books Week. You can celebrate by reading a banned book (and you might be surprised to find out some of your favorites have been challenged). I might pick up John Green’s Looking for Alaska. Stay tuned for more Falvey blog content about Banned Books Week coming up this week.

Annie Stockmal is a second-year graduate student in the Communication Department and Graduate Assistant in Falvey Library.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

In The Lord of the Rings, J. R. R. Tolkien wrote, “Deeds will not be less valiant because they are unpraised.”

Seeing people be appreciative for the nice things you do is undeniably nice. It boosts our confidence and makes us feel happy that we made someone else happy. But a good deed is a good deed with or without praise.

So, even if it’s just a small, simple action that makes someone smile, do a good deed this week. The smallest act of kindness might make someone’s day.

THIS WEEK AT FALVEY

Monday, September 25

Mindfulness Monday | 1-1:30 p.m. | Devon Room, Connelly Center | Virtual Option | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to Villanova Students, Faculty, & Staff

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Wonders and Realities–Three Irish Poets on Sustainability | 5-6:30 p.m. | Speakers’ Corner | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to the Public

Tuesday, September 26

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Scholarship@Villanova Event Featuring Olukunle P. Owolabi, PhD | 5-6:30 p.m. | Speakers’ Corner | Livestream Available Here | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to the Public | Light Refreshments Served

Wednesday, September 27

Fall 2023 Falvey Forum Workshop: Introduction to Zotero Citation Software | 12-1 p.m. | Virtual | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to the Public | Register Here

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Mastering the Art and Business of Webcomics with Professional Cartoonist Brad Guigar | 6-7 p.m. | Speakers’ Corner | Free & Open to the Public | Light Refreshments Served

Thursday, September 28

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Sunday, October 1

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

HOLIDAYS THIS WEEK

Today, Sept. 25 is National Comic Book Day. If you’re into comics, today is the day to dust off your favorite edition and enjoy it. If you want to learn about the comics in our Distinctive Collections, check out Christoforos Sassaris’ blog posts on our collection of Marvel Comics and “Classics Illustrated” Comics. Love all things comic book-related? Come by our “Mastering the Art and Business of Webcomics with Professional Cartoonist Brad Guigar” event this Wednesday to spend some time with a professional cartoonist among like-minded peers.

Photo by Derick McKinney on Unsplash

Want to add some joy to someone’s week? You have countless opportunities. If words of affirmation are your love language, Tuesday, Sept. 26, is Love Note Day. Whether its your romantic partner, a close friend, or a beloved family member, write a little love note to show your love and appreciation.

If acts of service are more your speed, Thursday, Sept. 28, is National Good Neighbor Day. It might seem insignificant, but sometimes being a good neighbor, whether its to your roommates, your fellow Villanovans, or any community you’re a part of, the simple things count. So, take this as a sign to wash any dishes you left in the sink, offer a helping hand to someone who needs it, and generally live by our Caritas and Unitas mission.

If you need a therapeutic activity to take a break from studying (and your kitchen is big enough), you can celebrate National Homemade Cookies Day this Sunday, Oct. 1. Bonus points if you share some with a friend.

Annie Stockmal is a second-year graduate student in the Communication Department and Graduate Assistant in Falvey Library.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

In Little Women, Louisa May Alcott wrote, “Watch and pray, dear, never get tired of trying, and never think it is impossible to conquer your fault.”

In life, there is a lot of trying, and only a fraction of that trying ends up succeeding. It’s one of the few universal experiences of being human. In college, especially, trying at everything can become quite tiresome.

But to grow tired of trying is to never experience growth and to never succeed, and 0ftentimes, the things that are tiring are worth trying for. Remember, it is always possible to grow and get better, no matter the task. Perseverance rarely goes unrewarded.

THIS WEEK AT FALVEY

Monday, September 18

Mindfulness Monday | 1-1:30 p.m. | Health Services Building 200 | Virtual Option | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to Villanova Students, Faculty, & Staff

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Tuesday, September 19

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Wednesday, September 20

Fall 2023 Falvey Forum Workshop: Gale Digital Scholar Lab-a-Text Analysis Platform | 12-1 p.m. | Virtual | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to the Public | Register Here

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Philosophy and Film Series on “Creativity and Madness”: Ed Harris’ Pollock (2000) | 5:30 p.m. | Room 415 | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to Villanova Community | Light Refreshments Served

Thursday, September 21

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Sunday, September 24

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

HOLIDAYS THIS WEEK

Photo by Daniel J. Schwarz on Unsplash

If you’re a bookworm, today, Sept. 18, is Read an eBook Day, and luckily, Falvey’s vast collection of online books is at your disposal. Need a snack to go with your ebook? Today is also Rice Krispies Treats Day. If you don’t have any of these delicious marshmallow-y treats on-hand, the ones in Falvey’s Holy Grounds are amazing.

What’s the perfect way to end the last day of summer? An ice cream cone, of course. National Ice Cream Cone Day is this Friday, Sept. 22. If you want to get a taste of autumn, I highly recommend the pumpkin ice cream from Trader Joe’s (or Longacre’s Modern Dairy if you’re ever up in the Barto area).

Although it’s been fall for Dunkin’ and Starbucks lovers for weeks, Saturday, Sept. 23 is the Fall Equinox, the first official day of fall. Although we don’t have the perfect fall weather yet, hopefully it’ll be time to bring out your sweaters, flannels, and boots soon.

Need a self-care day? Innergize Day, a day dedicated to recharging your inner battery, is this Sunday, Sept. 24. Even if you only have a few hours, take some time to tend to your inner needs and enjoy some rest and relaxation.

Annie Stockmal is a second-year graduate student in the Communication Department and Graduate Assistant in Falvey Library.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

In Emma, Jane Austen wrote, “You must be the best judge of your own happiness.”

Happiness looks different for everybody. For some, it’s in a room full of their closest friends, having fun without a care in the world. For others, it’s peacefully enjoying a good book or relaxing in the sunshine. Maybe it’s success in whatever you’re most passionate about. For me, it’s enjoying a cool Vermont morning in the summer, drinking an iced coffee, and enjoying the company of my loved ones.

Whatever it is for you, and you’re the best judge of your happiness, make time to do the things that make you happy. It’s important to enjoy the good moments in life, especially as stresses begin to pile up.

THIS WEEK AT FALVEY

Monday, September 11

Mindfulness Monday | 1-1:30 p.m. | Health Services Building 200 | Virtual Option | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to Villanova Students, Faculty, & Staff

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Tuesday, September 12

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Wednesday, September 13

Fall 2023 Falvey Forum Workshop: Introduction to Digital Humanities | 12-1 p.m. | Virtual | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to the Public | Register Here

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Thursday, September 14

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Sunday, September 17

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

HOLIDAYS THIS WEEK

If video games are one of your favorite pastimes, tomorrow, Sept. 12, is National Video Games Day. No matter what game you’re into, whether it’s The Sims, Minecraft, GTA, or World of Warcraft, this is your opportunity to let loose and enjoy some video games.

Photo by Eaters Collective on Unsplash

If you need an excuse to let your inner child relive some happy moments, Roald Dahl Day is this Wednesday, Sept. 13. Roald Dahl was a children’s author who wrote memorable classics like Matilda, The Witches, and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. You can browse Falvey’s collection of Roald Dahl books, articles, and adaptations here. Personally, I will take any excuse I can to re-watch Matilda, available through Falvey’s DVD Collection. As a bonus, check out my blog on the library in Matilda, as a part of our Libraries Go to Hollywood series.

A great candidate for a PA state holiday, this Thursday, Sept. 14, is Eat a Hoagie Day. If you need a great on-the-go meal, you can celebrate by grabbing a hoagie (and, if you really want to roll with the regional vibe, grab one from Wawa).

Friday, Sept. 15, is the start of Hispanic/Latine Heritage Month, a month dedicated to honoring the contributions of Hispanic Americans in history and celebrating the diverse Hispanic and Latine cultures around the world. Be on the lookout for Falvey’s upcoming Hispanic Heritage Month events on our Events & Exhibits page here.

Annie Stockmal is a second-year graduate student in the Communication Department and Graduate Assistant in Falvey Library.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

In Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, Albus Dumbledore said, “It is not our abilities that show what we truly are. It is our choices.”

Happy Monday, Wildcats! As you embark on your journey through this new semester, remember that while your abilities make up a part of you, your choices matter infinitely more. Your choices are what demonstrate who you are or who you will be.

You can choose to be an ambitious student. You can choose to be a good friend or a caring peer. You can choose to be a dedicated athlete or artist. There are countless choices you could make. So, start making the choices, no matter how small, that will get you to where you want to be.

THIS WEEK AT FALVEY

Tuesday, September 5

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Wednesday, September 6

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Thursday, September 7

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Sunday, September 10

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

HOLIDAYS THIS WEEK

As the long weekend likely clued you in on, today, Sept. 4, is Labor Day. Here are some other holidays coming up this week:

Photo by Brett Jordan on Unsplash

Falling conveniently on Labor Day, today is also Eat an Extra Dessert Day. In the spirit of the long weekend, enjoy a sweet treat of your choosing guilt-free.

Wednesday, Sept. 6, is Fight Procrastination Day. It’s easier to start out building better habits early in the semester than it is to in crunch time, and procrastination is definitely a hard habit to break. Still, even if it’s just for the day, try to work on an assignment before the due date. You might even give yourself some extra hours to enjoy on the weekend.

For any movie lovers, Actors’ Day is this Friday, Sept. 8. If you’re in the mood for something lowkey, this is the perfect opportunity for a movie night. If you need something to watch, you can look through Falvey’s DVD and online movie collections for some flicks with all your favorite stars.

Sunday, Sept. 10 is Grandparents’ Day. If you have a grandparent in your life that you cherish, now is a great time to show your appreciation in your own special way. On a personal note, I am very grateful for all of my grandparents, living and passed.

Annie Stockmal is a second-year graduate student in the Communication Department and Graduate Assistant in Falvey Library.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

In Mockingjay, Suzanne Collins wrote, “It takes ten times as long to put yourself together as it does to fall apart.”

Happy Monday, Wildcats! Welcome to the first official Monday of the semester. Of course, it’s easy (and important) to enjoy this relatively mellow point in the semester, but it’s also really important to start building good habits early. Whether it’s your first year at Villanova or your last, building good habits in the beginning of the semester is easier than trying to start them during midterms or finals week.

So, whether it’s building a study routine, prioritizing self-care, practicing mindfulness, or getting acquainted with important resources you’ll need down the line, start early. You’ll thank yourself later.

THIS WEEK AT FALVEY

Monday, August 28

Mindfulness Monday | 1-1:30 p.m. | Health Services Building 200 | Virtual Option | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to Villanova Students, Faculty, & Staff

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Tuesday, August 29

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Wednesday, August 30

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Thursday, August 31

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Sunday, September 3

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

HOLIDAYS THIS WEEK

Photo by Deval Parikh on Unsplash

Wednesday, Aug. 30, is Frankenstein Day. If you’re a sci-fi fan, you can celebrate this (obscure) holiday by consuming your favorite Frankenstein content, whether that’s Mary Shelley’s classic novel, the 1931 film, or an inspired re-imagining, like Tim Burton’s Frankenweenie.

This Thursday, Aug. 31, is Eat Outside Day. Whether you lay out a picnic blanket, take advantage of the Adirondack chairs around campus, or sit at a table on Falvey’s patio, today is a great excuse to enjoy the warm weather while it lasts and soak up some vitamin D.

Thursday is also National Trail Mix Day. Trail mix is the perfect on-the-go snack to grab as you’re getting into the swing of the semester. Plus, there are hundreds of varieties (especially if you mix your own). My personal favorite mix has cashews, almonds, peanuts, raisins, and M&Ms.

Annie Stockmal is a graduate student in the Communication Department and Graduate Assistant at Falvey Library.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

In The Fellowship of the Ring, J. R. R. Tolkien wrote, “All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us.”

Welcome back, Wildcats! We at Falvey hope you enjoyed your summer!

As we enter into a new semester, remember that you have the power to decide what you want to make of the time you’re given. There are 16 weeks in the semester, 16 weeks you’re able to make count. Whether you want to focus on prioritizing academics, making time for self-care, enjoy time with your friends, or try out a new hobby, now is the perfect time to set yourself up for success by building some good habits.

THIS WEEK AT FALVEY

Tuesday, August 22

Textbook Tuesday | 6-7 p.m. | Virtual | Free & Open to Villanova Students, Parents, Faculty, & Staff | ACS-Approved | Register Here

Thursday, August 24

Textbooks & Tacos | 5-6 p.m. | Speakers’ Corner | Free & Open to Villanova Students, Parents, Faculty, & Staff | ACS-Approved | Refreshments Served

HOLIDAYS THIS WEEK

This Wednesday, Aug. 23, is Find Your Inner Nerd Day, a day to indulge in any of your favorite nerdy interest. If you’re feeling festive, find your inner nerd today, whether you’re a fan of sci-fi novels, comic books, superheroes or role play games. If you’re interested in comic books, check out DCDE’s blog post about their superhero comic book collection.

Photo by Bowei Yang on Unsplash

If you’re in the mood for a tasty breakfast treat, this Thursday, Aug. 24, is National Waffle Day. Personally, I liked my waffles with (preferably real) maple syrup or strawberries with whipped cream, but there are countless ways to enjoy this breakfast classic. Or  just watch a waffle-centric episode of Parks and Recreation, like “Save JJs” or “Eagleton”.

Friday, Aug. 25 is National Secondhand Wardrobe Day. If you’re a fan of secondhand shopping, whether its for the prices, the sustainability, or the style, this is the perfect opportunity to wear your favorite thrifted outfit. Need some retail therapy? Swing by a local thrift store for some new clothes.

Feeling lucky? Sunday, Aug. 27 is International Lottery Day. If you want to test the odds, buy a lottery ticket today.

Annie Stockmal is a graduate student in the Communication Department and Graduate Assistant at Falvey Library.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

In Up, Ellie said, “Adventure is out there.”

Happy Monday, Wildcats! Right now, you’re likely bogged down with finals and end-of-the-semester work. It’s necessary, but it’s not exactly a time of great joy. But, adventure is out there. In a little over a week, when summer break begins, you’ll be free to enjoy some time outside of the stress of academia. Enjoy it! Go find your adventure.

To students, Falvey wishes you a manageable finals week and a happy break! To our Senior Wildcats, happy graduation! We’re confident you’ll do great things.

THIS WEEK AT FALVEY

Monday, May 8

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | The Math Center in the Learners’ Studio, Falvey Room 204 | Free

Tuesday, May 9

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | The Math Center in the Learners’ Studio, Falvey Room 204 | Free

Wednesday, May 10

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | The Math Center in the Learners’ Studio, Falvey Room 204 | Free

Thursday, May 11

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | The Math Center in the Learners’ Studio, Falvey Room 204 | Free

HOLIDAYS THIS WEEK

Photo by Nik on Unsplash

Today, May 8, is Reward Yourself Day. With finals upon us, I don’t doubt that we’re all working hard. Today, perhaps after you’re done studying or done with work, treat yourself to something that makes you happy, whether it’s a tasty treat, a new pair of shoes, or a walk in the park. You deserve it!

Fittingly, National Mental Health Awareness Day is Wednesday, May 10. Feelings of stress and being burnt out are certainly common during finals, and if it’s your last year here, you might be feeling sad to leave or anxious to start the next chapter in your life. Take some time today (or even just this week) to prioritize your mental health. If you’re struggling, talk to someone in your support system and utilize Villanova’s health and well-being resources.

Saturday, May 13, is Brunch for Lunch Day. If you’re looking for something to do with your friends or family for the end of the semester, enjoy some avocado toast, crepes, bottomless mimosas (if you’re of age), or any one of your go-to brunch staples. Personally, I’m partial to french toast.

This Sunday, May 14, is Mother’s Day. If you’re feeling grateful, celebrate your maternal figure, whether that’s your mom or another positive female role model in your life. On a personal note, I’m endlessly grateful to my mom and all of the women who helped raise me. If you’re a mother or a maternal figure to someone, we at Falvey thank you.

Annie Stockmal is a graduate student in the Communication Department and Graduate Assistant at Falvey Library.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

In The Ersatz Elevator, Daniel Handler or, rather, Lemony Snicket wrote, “If we wait until we’re ready, we’ll be waiting for the rest of our lives. Let’s go.”

Happy Monday, Wildcats! When we’re about to do something difficult and stressful, it’s natural to not feel adequately prepared, to not feel ready. For some of us, that describes finals, a predictably stressful occurrence that leaves us drained. For those who are graduating, this is even more true, as it can sort of feel like you’re jumping into the unknown.

But, if we wait until we feel totally ready, we’ll be waiting forever. Let’s go, Wildcats. And remember, Falvey is always here to help make your last days of classes and finals easier, whether it’s a quiet place to study, help from our subject librarians, or some stress relief from our stress-busting events.

THIS WEEK AT FALVEY

Monday, May 1

Mindfulness Monday | 1-1:30 p.m. | Virtual | Free & Open to Villanova Students, Faculty, and Staff

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Tuesday, May 2

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Wednesday, May 3

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Thursday, May 4

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Friday, May 5

Falvey Library’s Stress Busting Open House: Blow Your Worries Away | 11 a.m.-1 p.m. | Front Entrance, Falvey Library | Refreshments Served | Stress-Busting Activities

Sunday, May 7

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

HOLIDAYS THIS WEEK

Wednesday, May 3, is Sun Day, and fittingly, today is Melanoma Monday. Although the holiday is technically about the solar energy for infrastructure, enjoying some time in the sun can also give our minds and bodies the energy we need. It gives us a vitamin D boost and, when combined with fun activities or relaxation, helps to relieve stress (and with finals quickly approaching, we could all use some stress relief). But, while you’re soaking in some rays, remember to apply a generous amount of sunscreen, no matter your skin color or predisposition for sunburn. Not only will this help you prevent melanoma and other skin cancers, it’ll keep your skin looking younger for longer.

As you may already know, this Thursday is Star Wars Day, celebrated annually on May (the) 4th (be with you) as a play on words. If you’re a Star Wars fan, today is the perfect excuse to make some time to dive into to Star Wars universe. If you’re looking to watch (or rewatch) the films, you can start your journey here at Falvey with Stars Wars: Episode IV–A New Hope, available in our DVD Collection. For more, check out the entirety of Falvey’s Star Wars collection. For my personal celebration, I’m planning on finally starting the 3rd season of The Mandalorian.

Photo by Laura Pratt on Unsplash

Feeling stressed? Thursday is also National Renewal Day, a day dedicated to self-help and self-care. Although it might be difficult to fully embrace renewal with finals coming up, take some time to do something that relieves your stress today, whether it’s taking a long shower, sunbathing outside, or watching your comfort show. Need some extra help? Swing by Falvey on Friday, May 5, for some fun activities and tasty treats at our annual Stress-Busting Open House. (Details can be found here).

Need a portable meal while studying for finals? Friday, May 5, is National Hoagie Day. If you’re feeling in the spirit, stop by Wawa or your go-to local deli to enjoy this Mid-Atlantic delicacy.

Annie Stockmal is a graduate student in the Communication Department and Graduate Assistant at Falvey Library.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

In Little Women, Louisa May Alcott wrote, “Be comforted, dear soul! There is always light behind the clouds.”

Happy Monday, Wildcats! With just a few weeks left, the semester is quickly coming to a close. With the stress of papers, projects, and exams (and the impending threat of finals), it might seem like there’s a dark cloud looming over your head.

But, be comforted, dear Villanovan. The black cloud will disappear, and light will shine through. For many of us, that light is summer break, but it could simply be a vacation, a lower workload, or, if it’s your last year here, graduation. So, push through the clouds and look forward to the light.

THIS WEEK AT FALVEY

Monday, April 24

Mindfulness Monday | 1-1:30 p.m. | Virtual | Free & Open to Villanova Students, Faculty, and Staff

St. Catherine of Siena Research Award Symposium | 3:30-4:45 p.m. | Room 205 | Free & Open to the Public

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Tuesday, April 25

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Wednesday, April 26

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Ida B. Wells Lecture Featuring Michael G. Hanchard, PhD | 5-6 p.m. | Speakers’ Corner | Free & Open to the Villanova Community | Light Refreshments Served

Thursday, April 27

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Friday, April 28

2023 Falvey Scholars Award Presentation & Reception Ceremony | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | Speakers’ Corner | Livestream Available Here | Free & Open to the Public | Presentation Schedule Here

Villanova Gaming Society Meeting | 2:30-4:30 p.m. | Speakers’ Corner | Free & Open to the Public

2023 Concept Recognition Ceremony | 3-4:30 p.m. | Larson Kelly Auditorium (Room 132) and Atrium, Driscoll Hall | Free & Open to the Public | Register Here

Sunday, April 30

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

HOLIDAYS THIS WEEK

Wednesday, Apr. 26, is Denim Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness of and educating people on sexual assault and sexual violence. Wearing denim on Denim Day is encouraged to fight against victim blaming and show support for SA victims and survivors. To learn more about the (disgusting) statistics of sexual violence, check out RAINN’s statistical guide here. Villanova’s sexual assault resources and policy information can be found here.

Photo by Rosalind Chang on Unsplash

For any Marvel or DC fans, Friday, Apr. 28, is National Superhero Day. If you’re a superhero enthusiast, today is your day to celebrate all-things superhero, whether its comic books, movies, TV series, fan edits, or anything in-between. Since it’s the end of the semester, which is basically synonymous with more stress, I’ll probably watch one of my go-to lighthearted comfort superhero flicks, like Thor: Ragnarok or Shazam! If you want to learn more about DCDE’s Marvel comic book collection, check out Christoforos Sassaris’ blog post here.

For those who enjoy this yummy drink, Sunday, Apr. 30, is National Bubble Tea Day. So, if you’re looking for an off-campus treat, swing by your go-to boba spot or try out a new place. Although I’m not a big fan of bubble tea, I’ve heard good things about Yi’s Boba in Ardmore.

Feeling colorful? National Tie Dye Day is also this Sunday. To celebrate, throw on your favorite tie dye piece or, if the weather is nice, tie dye (or if you want a slightly edgier look, bleach dye) something you want to liven up. As a (pun intended) diehard tie dye enthusiast, I will definitely be wearing a baggy tie dye t-shirt in celebration.

Annie Stockmal is a graduate student in the Communication Department and Graduate Assistant at Falvey Library.