The Secret Underworld of the Library

In the nearly 50 years of the UCC Library's existence it is believed that only two intrepid students have had the vision and will to explore where all others have feared to tread: underneath the library tables. In late 2011 the explorers carefully planned their expedition and returned with photographic evidence of their findings.

For these two women, Leigh Batson and her trusted assistant, Miriam Gilman, the journey was all in a day's work. But for the faint of heart: be forewarned.

To begin our tour of the sordid underbelly of the library, let's take a look at a typical gum stalactite clinging just above your knees:

Although some specimens roost in relative solitude, other chewers prefer to add to a stomach churning, high density, "gum cluster".  This one has a rare blue foil accessory, attempting to blend in among the gum formation.

Not all gum deposits are so large or so obvious.  It is only with thorough scrutiny of their habitat that the rare "table leg ledge dweller" gob of gum can be discovered:













Let's step back and take a look at a "gum clusteration", seen accumulating in this fine landscape view.















Although not yet a scientific certainty, there is evidence that chewed gum does engage in reproduction.  Witness the couple to the left of this photo:



















 Miriam, in the throes of expeditionary fervor and clearly in fear for her life, is seen taking precautions to avoid attaching her hair to the underside of a table.












And finally, here is Leigh, combing through gum identification guides and mapping out her next research and photography projects.