Libraries’ Hawk Week activities highlight resources and connections


KU Libraries will host a diverse lineup of events during Hawk Week, August 18-22, in collaboration with university-wide activities that welcome new and returning students to campus.   

“Hawk Week events sponsored by the libraries offer students the opportunity to learn about some of the services we provide while also connecting with other students in meaningful ways,” said Amber Ovsak, Undergraduate Engagement Librarian. “It’s a great way to kick off the school year.” 

KU’s Hawk Week includes a trio of orientation events required for new students – Traditions Night, Jayhawks Give a Flock, and Academic Welcomes – as well as opportunities for all Jayhawks to connect with the campus community. Library events welcome students to engage with staff, resources, and spaces that empower academic success and provide platforms for exploration and involvement.   

KU Libraries Hawk Week Events 

Library on the Lawn 
Watson Library | Monday, August 18 | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. 

Come celebrate your first day of school with KU Libraries! Stop by for some iced coffee, snacks, and first day of school photos. Sign up for a public library card with Lawrence Public Library’s Dottie, play some yard games, win prizes, and learn more about what we have to offer at Watson Library. Tours will be available every half hour.   

Coffee with Carol 
Anschutz Library | Tuesday, August 19 | 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. 

Enjoy donuts and coffee with the Dean of KU Libraries, Carol Smith. Tours of Anschutz will additionally be offered every half hour.    

Libraries Loop Challenge 
Wescoe Beach | Tuesday, August 19 | 12 – 4 p.m. 

Did you know that there are six libraries on campus? We want to challenge you to visit five of them during Hawk Week and learn more about what each space has to offer. Visit our table on Tuesday, from 12:00 – 4:00 to get your passport and start the challenge. Return your passport to Watson Library by Friday afternoon to celebrate and receive your prize.   

Book clubs, Reading Challenges & More! 
Watson Library, 325 | Wednesday, August 20 | 12 – 2 p.m. 

Come learn about what we have scheduled & how you can get involved with KU Libraries’ programs. Enjoy snacks and beverages and chat with library staff about what you would like to see happening at KU Libraries and mark your calendar for future events at libraries.  

Fore! Mini Golf at Spencer Research Library 
Spencer Research Library, North Gallery | Thursday, August 21 | 1 – 4 p.m. 

Get to know your fellow Jayhawks and Spencer Research Library’s remarkable collections of rare and unique materials through a game of mini golf. We’ll help you find a team when you arrive. Refreshments, coloring pages, and button-making will also be available. Find us behind Strong Hall. 

Watch it in Watson: “Penguins of Madagascar” 
Watson Library 3 west | Thursday, August 21 | 7:30 – 10 p.m. 

Connect with other students, experience library spaces in a new way, and take in “The Penguins of Madagascar” (2014). Do you know that this movie inspired an essay by celebrated author, John Green?  We will view this movie for fun and in connection with this year’s KU Reads common book selection, “The Anthropocene Reviewed.” Come for the penguins, stay for the community! Crafting will start at 6:30 p.m. and the movie will begin at 7:30 p.m. Enjoy popcorn and refreshments, all free to KU students, faculty and staff. 

Makerspace Open House 
Anschutz, 203a-c | Friday, August 22 | 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. 

The KU Libraries Makerspace provides a venue for KU students to tinker, create, and collaborate with others.  Stop by the Makerspace on the second floor of Anschutz Library to find out more about the tools available, including 3D printing, podcasting equipment, and hands-on activities to facilitate creative discovery. There will be refreshments and swag available. 

Thu, 08/14/2025

author

Wendy Conover

Media Contacts

Wendy Conover

KU Libraries

(785) 864-8051

Kevin McCarty

KU Libraries

(785) 864-6428