For the first time ever, LSU Libraries hosted a "Cat Café," similar to its popular Dog Therapy event that takes place each semester. On the morning of September 25, 2024, LSU Libraries partnered with LSU Student Health Center and Cat Haven, a local no-kill shelter, to bring this unique event to the main library. Cat Haven brought nine kittens to the library, where they offered students opportunities to cuddle and play with the kittens as well as adopt them.
Like Dog Therapy, the goal of the Cat Café was to create a fun, safe space for students to unwind during the academic grind, and they jumped at the chance: a whopping 300 students registered for the event.
“The Cat Café was a great common ground for students of all backgrounds to unload their stress with these sweet, playful kitties, and it’s just a prime example of why LSU Library events deserve more attention,” said Saylor Kozielski, a political science senior who attended the event.
Randa Lopez Morgan, LSU Libraries' Agriculture Librarian and chair of its programming committee, played a central role in organizing the event. Morgan emphasized that these events go beyond just fun—they serve as a bridge between students and the library. Reducing "library anxiety," the intimidation students often feel when entering the library or interacting with staff, is another key goal of these events.
“I’m grateful to talk and promote events like this. They might be small, but they’re big in their own way,” explained Morgan.
The impact of the Cat Café extended beyond the LSU campus. One kitten was adopted, and several interest forms were submitted by attendees looking to adopt in the future. Events like this showcase how LSU Libraries contributes not only to student well-being but also to the broader Baton Rouge community by partnering with organizations like Cat Haven.
When asked about whether she might plan another Cat Café at the library, Morgan replied, “Future events like this are coming soon!”
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Brooke Bell
LSU Libraries
The LSU Libraries includes the LSU Library and the adjacent Hill Memorial Library. Together, the libraries contain more than 4 million volumes and provide additional resources such as expert staff, technology, services, electronic resources, and facilities that advance research, teaching, and learning across every discipline.