From alternate histories to dystopias and from cyberpunk to space opera, the UNM University Libraries is inviting the campus community to celebrate science fiction this summer while making vital connections during these socially distanced times.

The Summer of Sci Fi is a time for Trekkers, Whovians, Browncoats, Gaters, X-philes and other types of science-fiction fans to share their enthusiasm. Even those who have never given the genre much thought before can explore how the stories we tell about possible futures – from the realistic to the fanciful – allow us to ask questions about how our choices shape the world and how we can create a better one.

Summer of Sci Fi will feature a series of events using Zoom, designed to spark conversation, including:

  • A movie watch-along (with live-tweeting) | June 15, 7 – 8 p.m.
  • A book club discussion | July 15, 5 – 6 p.m.
  • A team trivia tournament | July 20, 6 – 7 p.m.

Summer of Sci Fi will also highlight science fiction books and other media available through the library. Along with resources and lists of items that can be checked out, the Center for Southwest Research and Special Collections will also take participants on a virtual tour of unique science fiction holdings in their special collections.

This effort is partially supported by the Linda K. Lewis Endowment for Science Fiction and Women’s Studies. The $400,000 endowment honors University Libraries’ Professor Emerita Linda K. Lewis, who served as a collections librarian from 1969-2010. In the spirit of the Lewis estate’s generous gift, the Summer of Sci Fi book club will discuss a collection of science fiction stories from author, Sarah Pinsker’s Sooner or Later Everything Falls into the Sea.

For more information and to register for events, visit the Summer of Sci Fi website. After registration, participants will receive an email with Zoom log-in information and other details.

Summer of Sci Fi: Movie Watch-along
Pre-registration by June 14 with a UNM email address is required.

The watch-along features a collection of futuristic short films. While you view the films, be sure to join the conversation either by live-tweeting (@UNMLibraries and #UNMSoSF) or wander into our Zoom chat hangout.

Summer of Sci Fi: Book Club
Pre-registration by July 13 with a UNM email address is required.

Join an online group book discussion of Sarah Pinsker’s Sooner or Later Everything Falls into the Sea. In this collection of science fiction short stories, the award-winning author uses lyrical and humorous tales to explore themes such as technology, time travel, space exploration, music, and memory. We’re excited to hear your thoughts about it! Please read the book prior to the event; you can check out the book.

Summer of Sci Fi: Team Trivia
Pre-registration by July 17 with a UNM email address is required.

Enjoy some friendly competition. Gather a team of your friends and show off your epic knowledge of science fiction trivia.

Each team member who needs access to Zoom event space needs to register separately. Please tsubmit a team name is in advance to help everyone connect during the event. After register,ation participants will receive an email with Zoom log-in information and other details.