More Southern Oregon University students and staff carried New York Times newspapers as they walked across campus last week than usual.

Stacks of complimentary New York Times newspapers attracted readers all across campus Monday when through the support of Associated Students of Southern Oregon University and a division of Student Services, The New York Times Knowledge Network donated 200 newspapers to the campus for educational purposes.

Senior psychology major Carrie Brizendine found out about the free newspapers from her professors.

"I think it’s so nice that The New York Times wants to donate newspapers to the student body," Brizendine said. "That’s great that students get the opportunity to be more informed of world news."

Brizendine also commented that she was more likely to take advantage of free newspapers than those she would have to purchase.

The New York Times Knowledge Network donated the newspapers as a way to broaden the perspectives and growth of student learning through world news.

Todd Halvorsen, of The New York Times, presented a workshop Friday to SOU administrators and staff on how best to implement the newspaper into curriculum learning. Halvorsen could not be reached for comment, but Vice President of Student Affairs Jonathan Eldridge commented in a student-wide email that, "The network’s mission is to assist educators in using The New York Times as a resource to foster student’s intellectual growth and curiosity, civic participation and personal success."

Junior economics major Sam Bledsoe, who has picked up The New York Times newspapers frequently since the complimentary newspapers arrived, appreciates the newspapers because they provide a different worldview from local newspapers.

"It gives students a perspective of what journalism really is," said Bledsoe, who enjoys reading the Times articles. Bledsoe also admits its not a bad thing that they are free to all on campus.

"I wouldn’t normally buy [The New York Times] because it’s a hassle, but since it’s here, I’ll use it."

The Times newsstands are located in the Stevenson Union outside of Raider Aid, in the lobby of Hannon Library, Central Hall, Taylor Hall and two locations at Cascade Residence Halls. Students, staff and community members are welcome to pick up copies until May 30, and the newspapers are free of charge.

For more information about The New York Times Knowledge Network, contact Todd Halvorsen at todd.halvorsen@nytimes.com or visit www.sou.edu/studentaffairs/ .