When you first walk into the James E. Walker Library Atrium, depending on the time of day, you may notice an elevated shelving unit filled with enticing snacks, sometimes even hygiene products. A partnered effort by the Care Crew at Walker Library and the MT One Stop/MTSU Student Food Pantry, this kiosk—the Student Snack Station—is stocked several times a week and emptied usually within a 24-hour period.
Created as an extension of the Student Food Pantry to combat food insecurity at MTSU, the Student Snack Station launched in May 2023. Access Services Librarian Jordan Nielsen provided some insight on the formation of the station:
We care deeply about the success of our students, and it is hard to be successful when you’re hungry or worrying about where your next meal will come from. We saw a need, so we decided to explore a partnership that would extend the Student Food Pantry’s reach on campus. The Library is in a central location, and our hours of operation are pretty extensive, so having this satellite in the library ensures increased access for students.
Since the formation of the Student Snack Station, there has been a significant increase in visitors to the Student Food Pantry located in MT One Stop as well. Outreach and Support Programs Coordinator for MT One Stop Melanie Crowder adds, “We have increased from 75 to an average of over 300 visits per month for the past year. Monthly stats are maintained and posted, along with a listing of currently needed items, to the website page.”
When asked about the value of the Student Snack Station in Walker Library, Access Services Coordinator Wendy Jones says, “I’ve had quite a few students thank me for the station when I’m out filling it. They say that they have early classes and don’t have time to eat breakfast and that [the Student Snack Station] keeps them going.” Walker Library Care Crew members and User Services student assistants regularly maintain the satellite station.
During its first year, the Student Snack Station facilitated the distribution of $6,848.40 in snacks and toiletries to patrons of the James E. Walker Library. While funding for the Student Snack Station primarily originates from the MT One Stop, the Care Crew has previously organized donations-based fundraising efforts resulting in donated supplies and $445 in monetary donations.
The Student Snack Station fills a valuable purpose on the MTSU campus, and the majority of the resources are provided through the MTSU Community. If you would like to donate to the Student Food Pantry in MT One Stop, you may follow this link to the Student Food Pantry website.