2024: UT Libraries Year in Review

In 2024, UT Libraries served a record number of students, strengthened academic offerings through involvement in curriculum committees across colleges, including the new College of Emerging and Collaborative Studies, and forged partnerships that propelled UT Libraries initiatives to the global stage. Our goal in 2025 is to take UT Libraries to the next level. We … Continued

In Gratitude to Nikki Giovanni

UT Libraries mourns the passing of beloved poet and Knoxville native Nikki Giovanni. Giovanni was born in Knoxville on June 7, 1943. She grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio, but returned to Knoxville to attend Austin High School, now called Austin-East Magnet High School. Giovanni was a graduate of Fisk University, and she spent the majority … Continued

UT Press Nov. 14 Panel Discussion on Opportunities for Aspiring Authors, Publishing with the Press

Event Part of Statewide Tour to Highlight Role of University Presses in Publishing University of Tennessee Press Director Katie Hannah will visit campuses across the state during University Press Week, Nov. 11–15, 2024. Hannah’s tour will spotlight the work of UT Press, the value of university presses in today’s publishing landscape, and opportunities for aspiring … Continued

A Walk Through the History of The Daily Beacon

The University of Tennessee’s student newspaper, The Daily Beacon, serves as a time capsule of cherished memories, capturing the laughter, triumphs, and stories of countless alumni throughout the history of the university. Tennessee alumni recall their experiences during their college days, reminiscing about the time spent during what many consider the most fun years of … Continued

Pride of the Southland: History of UT’s Marching Band

The University of Tennessee Marching Band, better known as the Pride of the Southland, is one of the oldest and most prestigious collegiate band programs in the country. The band celebrates its 155th anniversary this year. What began as a small all-male military band has grown to a university marching band of more than 300 … Continued

New Self-checkout Experience at Hodges Library

Library users can now check out their own library books from Hodges Library — without standing in line at the Public Services desk. Users can checkout books at the Meescan kiosk or from their mobile devices. Self-checkout is available only at Hodges Library. Using the Kiosk Bring your books to the Meescan Kiosk, just outside … Continued

Guides to Hiking in the Smokies: From Short Hikes to Backpacking

If you’re looking forward to a hike in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park but would like some guidance, try the titles below — available from the University of Tennessee Press. There’s something here for everyone, from backpackers to families hiking with young children. Hiking Trails of the Great Smoky Mountains: A Comprehensive Guide, by … Continued

Tennessee’s First Home Demonstration Agent Figures in Plot of New Novel

Tennessee’s first home demonstration agent, Virginia P. Moore, makes a cameo appearance in The Growing Season, the latest novel by Tennessee author Jane Lorenzini. To flesh out Moore’s character, the novelist delved into the Virginia P. Moore Collection held at the University of Tennessee Libraries. In the first decades of the 20th century, home demonstration … Continued

UT Libraries Celebrates Staff During Annual Spirit Awards Ceremony

The UT Libraries held its annual Spirit Awards ceremony on May 21. As Dean of Libraries Steve Smith told the gathering, the yearly breakfast is an opportunity to “recognize and honor the outstanding achievements of our faculty, staff, and students who embody the spirit of excellence, innovation, and service within our libraries.” A committee of … Continued

Thank You Donors for Celebrating Scot Danforth!

Friends and donors gathered recently to celebrate Scot Danforth, retired director of The University of Tennessee Press, at Books, Beer and Banjos. The event lauded his thirty years of service to UT and raised funds for a new endowment named in his honor. The Scot Danforth UT Press Director Endowment supports the UT Press by … Continued