601 West Lombard Street
Baltimore MD 21201-1512
Reference: 410-706-7996
Circulation: 410-706-7928
This edition of HSHSL’s “Connective Issues” newsletter includes a farewell message from Dean Emily J. Hurst as she prepares to pursue new opportunities beyond HSHSL. You’ll also find updates on first-floor recarpeting and fifth-floor weeding efforts, news about our new oral history grant, and practical advice for recent graduates.
Read the latest issue for more news and updates from across the library.
The HSHSL will begin a major first-floor recarpeting project on May 18. Work is expected to continue through June 15.
To prepare for construction, some first-floor services and amenities will begin relocating starting Thursday, May 14. During this transition period, the first floor will remain open, but visitors may notice temporary service changes as equipment and services move to other areas of the building.
Beginning May 18, the entire first floor will be closed to the public as carpeting is replaced in phases, starting in staff spaces and moving toward the library entrance.
How this may affect you
Library services
Spaces and amenities
Plan ahead
Directional signage will be posted throughout the building, and library staff will be available to help.
We appreciate your flexibility while we refresh the first floor and look forward to welcoming you back into the updated space soon.
A new online guide for the UMB Digital Archive is now available. The Digital Archive is a service provided by the Health Sciences and Human Services Library (HSHSL) that collects, preserves and shares the scholarly and institutional work of the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) community.
From dissertations and presentations to historical materials and campus publications, the Digital Archive helps ensure that UMB’s work remains visible, discoverable and accessible over time.
The guide brings together key information and resources related to the Digital Archive, including:
About the UMB Digital Archive
Learn what the Digital Archive is, who can contribute and how it supports open access and long-term preservation.
Submission and Registration Support
Find step-by-step instructions for submitting your work, along with guidance on account registration and deposit workflows.
Accessibility Guidance
Explore best practices and requirements for creating accessible files to ensure your work can be used by the widest possible audience.
Whether you’re interested in learning more about the archive, exploring its collections or contributing your own work, this guide offers a practical starting point.
Learn more about the UMB Digital Archive and how to participate.
Graduating this semester? Looking for a fun way to mark the occasion? Stop by the HSHSL’s Weise Gallery and take a photo at our Graduation Photo Wall, now up and ready for you.
The backdrop features UMB colors, sparkling fringe curtains, and a large “Grad 2026” sign to help celebrate your accomplishment.
Whether you stop by in your cap and gown or between study sessions, we invite you to capture the moment. Stop by the graduation photo wall and celebrate your accomplishment. 🎓✨ #SnapAtHSHSL
Please note:
Outside photographers who are not affiliated with UMB may not enter the library for photo sessions without prior approval.
To request access for a non-UMB photographer, please contact us in advance at hshsl@umaryland.edu.
The Health Sciences and Human Services Library (HSHSL) has released the Fiscal Year 2025 Annual Report (PDF), highlighting a year of growth, collaboration and expanded support for the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) community.
The report showcases key accomplishments across the library, including increased use of library spaces, growth in research and reference support, and continued investments in improving the library environment and user experience. It also highlights partnerships, programs and collections that support education, research and clinical practice across UMB.
Together, these efforts reflect HSHSL’s ongoing commitment to advancing access to information, supporting scholarship and creating welcoming, effective spaces for learning and collaboration.
Read the full report to explore stories, data and highlights from the past year.
Mother’s Day, graduation, and Father’s Day are right around the corner. Consider giving your favorite people flowers that will last.
The HSHSL offers a four-pack of high-quality botanical stickers for $5, available through the HSHSL Online Store. Orders must be picked up at the library. Shipping is not available.
The Health Sciences and Human Services Library (HSHSL) has added a new feature to support equitable access to library resources for the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) community, advancing its broader commitment to inclusive, accessible services.
Beginning this week, UMB users submitting interlibrary loan (ILL) requests for journal articles and book chapters will see a new option on the request form. This option allows users to indicate whether they need materials in an accessible format.
The feature makes it easier for students, faculty and staff to request accessibility accommodations. When selected, the request moves through a dedicated workflow so staff can review and address accessibility needs as part of the ILL process.
HSHSL staff remain available to assist with questions or additional support needs. For help with interlibrary loan services or accessibility support, contact HSHSL Resource Sharing or visit the interlibrary loan page for more information.
Need a quick study tool or device accessory? The HSHSL offers a range of items to help you stay focused, organized and connected. Whether you are settling in for a long study session or just need a quick fix, these tools are easy to access and ready when you are.
Pick these up from the bins at the front desk to use in the HSHSL. No checkout needed.
Staff will check these out for you.
Just ask. We are here to help you find what you need to work comfortably and effectively.
The HSHSL has renewed access to JoVE, a video-based resource that brings research and clinical techniques to life.
JoVE features short, peer-reviewed videos that demonstrate laboratory methods, clinical skills, and research processes step by step. It is a helpful tool for anyone who learns best by seeing how something is done.
With JoVE, you can:
Whether you are new to a technique or want a refresher, JoVE offers a clear, visual way to build confidence and understanding.
The connecting door between the library and the Campus Center is temporarily closed following a sprinkler incident in the Campus Center.
For safety reasons, this entrance is not currently accessible, including for card access.
What this means
Early access Tuesday, April 14
We will share updates as soon as more information becomes available. Thank you for your patience.