Free Library launches at the Ted Rogers School

To get free books into the hands of students and promote reading and literacy, a Free Library was launched at the Ted Rogers School of Management.

The library, which includes novels, non-fiction books and poetry, launched in early October. It is located on the 8th floor of the Ted Rogers School, in the "Quiet Study" zone in the north-west corner.

Chris MacDonald, Associate Professor, Law and Business, was the one who introduced the idea for the Free Library at the school. “There is a widespread decline in reading, and we know that reading is important for learning and for cognitive and professional development,” he explains. “I didn’t want cost to be a barrier for students who wanted to read.” 

The idea was approved by Ted Rogers School Dean Cynthia Holmes, and supported by Rita Lingner (Director, Space Planning & Special Projects), who provided the bookshelf and a donations cart, which is currently situated in the Staff and Faculty Lounge on the 9th floor (TRS 3-172).

MacDonald welcomes staff and faculty members to donate novels, non-fiction books of all kinds (ie. histories, biographies, self-help books) and poetry to the Free Library. It does not accept out-of-date textbooks.

“Literacy really is the foundation of learning, and a great way to foster critical thinking and leadership skills,” says MacDonald. “I hope that our new Free Library encourages students to read more.”