Utah State University Eastern News Release

Utah State University Eastern is kicking off its 2026 Speaker Series with a presentation exploring the shared ideas, spaces and resources that shape our communities and everyday lives.

The series is presented in conjunction with the America 250 Utah project, coordinated by the Utah Department of Cultural and Community Engagement.

The first speaker of the series will be Michael W. Harris, assistant librarian and head of Eastern and Statewide Services at USU Eastern. Harris will present “The Commons: A Brief History of a Powerful Idea (and How It Shapes Our Lives)” on at 6 p.m. Jan. 28. The event will be in the Central Instruction Building, room 101, on the USU Eastern campus.

This talk launches the three-part USU Eastern-hosted Speaker Series, with additional sessions scheduled in February and March featuring other speakers.

Harris will explore the concept of the commons — the idea that certain resources should be shared, protected and governed collectively for the benefit of all. From physical spaces such as national parks and local city parks to cultural and intellectual assets like the works of Shakespeare or the original Steamboat Willie cartoon, the commons play a vital role in preserving access to resources that enrich society. The event will examine how this idea has shaped political and economic thought and why it remains essential in today’s world.

“This presentation invites the community to think differently about the shared spaces and ideas we often take for granted,” Harris said. “Understanding the commons helps us better appreciate how collective stewardship strengthens culture, education and civic life.”

Speaker Bio

Michael W. Harris serves as assistant librarian and head of Eastern and Statewide Services at Utah State University Eastern. With professional experience in archives, digital preservation, and research instruction, Harris holds an M.S. in Library and Information Science and a Ph.D. in Musicology. His publications span film music, media history and librarianship, and he frequently presents on space planning, assessment and thirdspace theory. He is deeply committed to expanding equitable access to information and building strong, community-centered library services.

The USU Eastern Speaker Series is designed to bring thought-provoking voices to campus and foster meaningful conversations that extend beyond the classroom. This event is free and open to the public. Community members, students, faculty and staff are encouraged to attend.

For more information about the Speaker Series, visit eastern.usu.edu/speaker-series or follow USU Eastern on social media.