Missed an Assembly Series lecture? You might be able to catch it on the Web

Nov. 16, 2005 -- Have you recently missed an Assembly Series lecture because you had a conflict and couldn't make it to Graham Chapel? If the speaker you were interested in hearing gave permission to put the lecture on the WUSTL Web site, then you can still hear it.

With help from the University Libraries and the University Webmaster, some Assembly Series lectures can be heard now via streaming audio.

"Beginning this fall, each speaker is being asked if he or she will allow us to put the speech on the Web," said Barbara Rea, director of major events & special projects who directs the Assembly Series. "Generally speaking, those who have celebrity status will not agree to let us post it on our Web site, but fortunately for us, many will."

Class scheduling conflicts have become an increasing problem for many undergraduates who want to attend the Wednesday morning lectures. "I really enjoy the Assembly Series, but like many students, I frequently don't have time to go in person. When I can stream the talk, I can listen to it later, when I'm at home," explained sophomore Derek Dohler.

Rea said this would not be possible without the assistance of the Libraries. "We couldn't do this on our own. Gail Wright, the University Webmaster, stepped forward and offered her help and room on their server. We are very grateful for the collaboration, which benefits everyone."

To see the list of lectures available online, visit the Assembly Series Web site at http://assemblyseries.wustl.edu.