Stephen's Bookshelf lacks swag

Some think the reason for the lack of school spirit on campus is because of the lack in variety at the BookShelf.

The BookShelf, located in Stamper Commons, sells books and supplies, iPods and headphones. Few students mention these items; the apparel is the main topic of conversation.

Kristia Wise, a fashion marketing and management major, sports more Mizzou gear than Stephens apparel. Fully aware that the BookShelf and Mizzou's bookstore are run through the same company, Wise had several opinions on why she finds herself sporting more Mizzou gear on and off campus.              

"There is more variety of Mizzou gear and it's everywhere, Stephens stuff is only at Stephens," she said.

Being able to access Mizzou gear all over in Columbia seems to have a large influence on Stephens students. The BookShelf is the only place to purchase any Stephens apparel while Mizzou gear can be purchased at their bookstore, at stores in the mall like Tiger Town and national chains like Target and Walmart. This gives buyers a huge selection.

"Mizzou is big well known university and Stephens is a small college", Wise said on why she thinks Mizzou has a much wider variety to choose from.

Wise also mentioned that she would like to see more color in the BookShelf.

 "I liked the multi-color Nike shorts we had last spring and the T-shirts that say Stephens College on them in the different colors."

However, according to Susan Bubach, manager of the Book Shelf, alumnae would rather see more traditional apparel in the store.

"Alum likes to see a lot of the school colors maroon and gold," she said.

Melanie Green-Harris, a fashion marketing and management major shows her school spirit by also sporting anything with a Stephen's logo.

"I the stuff we have in the bookstore, I think the simpler things are the better," she said.

Unlike Wise, Green-Harris likes the fact that Stephens leans more towards the traditional school colors.

 "I usually don't buy stuff out the Book Shelf that is not maroon and gold," she said.

Bubach has noticed the new generation seems to be drawn toward a wider color palette. She explained that Stephens has buyers who decide what goes in to the store, and if any students have new ideas for the Book Shelf, that "we're always open for suggestion."            

Any students with suggestions, questions or concerns about merchandise can visit the Book Shelf and speak with Bubach from 10 until 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.