The Rutgers University Libraries invite community members to participate in a free six-part viewing, reading, and discussion series called “The Research Revolution: Science and the Shaping of Modern Life” taking place at Alexander Library on Tuesday nights in March and April.

The Rutgers University Libraries are one of 50 libraries nationwide selected to participate in the project by National Video Resources (NVR) in partnership with the American Library Association (ALA). The project is funded by the National Science Foundation and locally by the Friends of the Rutgers University Libraries.

The “Research Revolution” aims to increase public understanding of scientific discovery and technological transformation in the twentieth century. The first program, focusing on nuclear energy’s impact, danger, and possibilities, will be held on Tuesday March 4th and feature the film “I Am Become Death: They Made The Bomb” followed by a discussion. This introductory film and discussion will conclude with a light reception.

Other films and topics to be discussed include:

• “Into the Body” (Robotics) on March 11th,
• “Our Genes, Our Choices: Who Gets to Know?”
(Genetics, testing, and the right to privacy) on March 25th,
• “The Gene Squad” (Forensics/DNA technology) on April 1st,
• “What’s Up With the Weather?” (Global Warming) on April 8th, and
• “Natural Connections” (The human threat to biodiversity) on April 15th.

All programs will be held from 6:00 – 9:00 pm in the Scholarly Communication Center, on the fourth floor of the Archibald S. Alexander Library at 169 College Ave., in New Brunswick.

Dr. Peter Day will lead a discussion about each sessions award-winning documentary. Dr. Day is Professor Emeritus of Genetics and founding director of the Biotechnology Center for Agriculture and the Environment at Rutgers University’s Cook College.

“I’m honored that the Rutgers University Libraries were chosen to host this series of film screenings and discussions on headline-making science topics” said University Librarian Marianne Gaunt. “This program will enable Rutgers students, faculty, and community members to explore some of the serious scientific topics of our age, with the help of one of Rutgers’ top science scholars, and discuss the impact of scientific discovery on people and society. We are pleased that these worthwhile discussions will be held in our Libraries.”

To RSVP for one session or the entire series, send email to events@rci.rutgers.edu or call the Libraries Administration reception desk at 732/932-7505. For more information on “The Research Revolution,” please see this website: http://www.nvr.org/research_index.php?pro=research