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NSVRC Blogs by Melissa Powers


Melissa is a Librarian at the National Sexual Violence Resource Center and the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape. Melissa has experience working in youth corrections as a direct care staff and case manager. She also has experience working in the publishing field as a book buyer. Melissa holds a B.A. from Adams State University of Colorado, an M.S.L.S. in Library Science from Clarion University, and an M.P.S. in Instructional Design through Fort Hayes State University. She is an absolute book lover and enjoys spreading her love for books and the movement to others.

Tips for Searching the NSVRC & PCAR Libraries
Illustration of a shelf of books on a laptop screen

Check out these tips and tools to help navigate our library collections.

Fill the Holidays With Books!
a happy child reads a book in the arms of a loved one (seemingly her mother). The adult is wearing a santa hat and they are sitting in front of the fire. Their faces are lighting up from a light beaming from the insight of the book.

With holidays swiftly approaching, schools are about to let out and families may be spending a lot of time together under one roof. These days can hit like a whirlwind and be gone before we know it - or they could drag on with stress, anxiety, and boredom. Since the best thing we can give our kids is our time, I wanted to share a few children’s books held within the NSVRC/PCAR library that kids can read on their own or with caregivers or loved ones.

Native American Heritage Month: Celebrated through Book and Film

Girl sitting on the grass outside, smiling and reading a book

This post highlights books and films regarding Native Americans and their struggle for justice.

Censorship Divides — Let Books Unite
Illustration of lots of people reading books in various locations

During Banned Books Week, we celebrate the freedom for everyone to be able to choose what they read and deny censorship.

Inspiration, Persistence, & Mental Health

Person holding up a gold medal

In recognition of the Olympics, we highlight some children’s books along with some helpful books on mental health.

NSVRC Library Reaches Milestone! 50,000 Unique Titles

Books visible through a computer screen

NSVRC's library now has 50,000 unique titles on sexual violence prevention.

Resources for Navigating Our Virtual Reality
Illustration of a mother and child looking at a laptop together

The blog highlights resources to help adults guide kids through the realms of the internet.

A Celebration of Extraordinary Women

Illustration of people reading

We highlight two children’s books and two adult non-fiction books to help recognize Women’s History Month.

Intriguing Characters and Encouraging Reads

A book is open with a blue background

These five books share positive messages and inspiring individuals.

5 Banned Books on Gender Identity, Sexuality, and Women's Rights

Illustration of hands holding books

Exercise your freedom to read during Banned Books Week with these titles on gender identity, sexuality, and women's rights.