Save Scribbler - FYE Session

Along with traditional library sessions, we offer "Save Scribbler" for Scribner Seminars.  Save Scribbler combines elements of a scavenger hunt with an escape room.  Students play in teams to solve clues and find items throughout the library using a variety of resources and skills including the library catalog, using call numbers, and navigating the library building.  The goal of the session is to get students more comfortable using the library website and catalog, finding physical items in the library, and asking for help from librarians.  It's meant to be a light and fun orientation to the library.

Save Scribbler always involves Scribbler Squirrel, the library's researching rodent mascot, with a new theme each year. Past Scribbler sessions were:

• 2018 - Save Scribbler 

• 2019 - Save The Amazing Scribbler 

• 2020 - Save Scribbler: Squirrels in Space

• 2021 - Save Scribbler: Secrets of the Pharaoh’s Tomb 

• 2022 - Save Scribbler: Quest for the Holy Grail

• 2023 - Save Scribbler: Art Heist!

• 2024 - Save Scribbler: Northwoods Noir

• 2025 - Save Scribbler: Concert Chaos 

Should I book Save Scribbler for my session?

Save Scribbler is a great option as a "light and breezy" intro to the library. It is not a good option if your students are working on more robust research projects that require specific databases and tools.  If they are working on a  research project, we'd recommend you book a traditional library session with your subject librarian.

Can I book a Save Scribbler and a traditional library session?

Absolutely! You can book two separate sessions, or if you have a longer 110 minute class, you can book the two sessions together.  If booking two separate sessions, we recommend booking Scribbler first followed by the traditional session.  If booked in the same class, the traditional session will go first followed by Save Scribbler.

When does Save Scribbler end in the semester?

We stop offering Save Scribbler by the end of October as Scribbler loses his charisma as we get closer to midterms. You can book a traditional library session anytime during the semester.

How do I book Save Scribbler?

You or your peer mentor can contact Johanna MacKay (jmackay@skidmore.edu) or John Cosgrove (jcosgrov@skidmore.edu) with your preferred dates/times for a Scribbler session.

Any tips on making Scribbler the most awesome library orientation it can be?

Yes!  Over the years, we've found that certain things really help make a Save Scribbler session awesome.

• Give your students a "sneak peak" by telling them beforehand that the session will be a game played in teams involving a squirrel.
• Give students an incentive to win.  There can be a winning team in Scribbler, and when extra credit or even a small reward (like candy) is offered, students get motivated.
• Play along! The faculty and peer mentor can play with a team or roam the room and help out as they choose with the clues.  We call these "Wildcards." The more active the faculty and peer mentor are in the session, the more enthusiastic students become.