As I was walking through Periodicals and letting my eye browse the current issues, I was stopped by the cover of Reader’s Digest‘s November 2013 issue: “Are you normal or nuts?” it asks. Well, of course I’d like to know. So I had to look at it.
And once I had the issue in my hands, I found that I was interested in reading about “How to die on Facebook” and “Humble beginnings of 5 big ideas.” I was surprised (as perhaps you will be, too) to learn that “unfriend” is an ancient word, dating back to at least 1659 (See the Library database Oxford English Dictionary if you are skeptical)! Yes, I was reminded how much I used to enjoy the Reader’s Digest, with its vocabulary builder (It Pays to Increase Your WordPower), humor, and short articles and excerpts. For several years I also enjoyed a subscription to its cousin, Utne Reader, which also offers many brief articles in every issue on a variety of topics.
So the next time you have a little time, or need a little break, try a magazine like the Reader’s Digest. It might give you conversation for the next party or lunch with a friend. The most current issue is on the magazine racks on the 2nd floor, near the Reference Desk.
