News
WUR-authored novels, poetry, and children's books
In Collections in the Spotlight, we shine a light on unique databases and hidden gems from the WUR Library. This time, we’re looking into a non-scientific collection: the WUR Literature Collection (WURLIT), a personal favourite of Joke Webbink, Manager of WUR Arts and Heritage.
What is the WUR Literature Collection?
Our literature collection features around 120 literary and non-fiction books written by current and former WUR staff and students. You’ll find poetry, children’s books, autobiographies, and even crime novels. Every title can be borrowed for free from the Forum Library.
You are the initiator of this collection. What inspired you to start it?
The idea came to me during a holiday in Taiwan. I love visiting university libraries when I travel, and one I visited had a wonderful collection of fiction written by their researchers and students. It struck me as a beautiful addition to the academic environment, and I thought, why not do the same at WUR?
What I love about this collection is how it reflects the people of WUR. It shows our creative side, our stories beyond research and academic publications. For me, books and art are essential. They’re not just nice-to-haves.
Art and literature are a source of inspiration and an essential part of a meaningful work and life experience.
That’s why the Library needs to include these kinds of books in its collection, even if only in small numbers. Most of the books have been donated, so the collection doesn’t put any pressure on the Library’s budget.
A different kind of writing
In my role at the university, I’ve spoken with many scientists and students who write fiction. For some, it’s a way to share their scientific knowledge with a wider audience. A great example is Het grote reptielenboek by Sterrin Smalbrugge. This is a scientifically sound children’s book designed to introduce young readers to reptiles in an engaging way.
For some authors, writing fiction offers a creative outlet, a way to express themselves beyond the boundaries of academic work. I also like for example, the work of Simon Oosting. Rauwe fisken op wynfearwolkens is a Frisian-language poetry collection about time and its passing.
Looking for WUR storytellers
Are you a (former) WUR student or staff member who has published fiction? It can be poetry, novels, thrillers, or even children’s books. We’d love to hear from you! Get in touch with us to see if we can add your book to the WURLIT collection.
Contact: library.collections@wur.nl
Curious about the collection? Browse it here: WURLIT | Search | WUR Library or visit Forum Library.
This news article is based on an interview with Joke Webbink by Gabriela Jaramillo and Annemieke Sweere from the Library.