For some, this is a dark time of year. Daylight savings time has ended, the days are short and the nights are extra inky.

Others recognize that, despite the cold and the narrow angle of the sun’s path, this can be a giving time of year. Extended light from Hanukkah menorahs, gift giving around Christmas and the mutual support shown at Kwanzaa all remind us of the good that can come our way when it seems we have lost so much.

Not to worry, friends, because our faculty will be in a giving mood, too! Exams, take home tests, project deadlines and portfolios will, no doubt, greet your December days. The question is, how will you approach those gifts?

I know, I know. If I were you I would get a little cranky about it, too. That’s pretty normal. However, it’s not too far-fetched a notion to see your education as an opportunity, one that allows you to grow, develop your talents, and advance a career. Of course, no matter what your attitude, Madison College Librarians are all too happy to help.

I say, “All too happy,” because we librarians are a little nutty about this. We love to find resources that will help you learn, study, and write. We geek on finding the perfect search term or ideal article for your topic. We have tried very hard in our new and updated spaces to provide settings that are more conducive to learning, whether individually or in groups. Some of you love the ease of databases, streaming video, e-books, and electronic research guides, whereas others might prefer a daily newspaper, a glossy magazine or an old-school, bound and printed book. We make sure we have something for everyone.

Back here on the darkening earth, as you approach the stress and hard work that come around finals and final project time, don’t think you have to go it alone. Remember, none of us do. In the Libraries, we work as a team, and faculty and librarians work together, just as all the faculty and staff work toward one goal: helping you toward success.

So if it gets a little dark, stop into a campus library. You’ll certainly brighten our day.