I remember Faithlife trying to kill this "feature" off in 7, so it seems they've tried to again in 8, however....
I really found it helpful to have the drop-down box that told me whenever there were either library resources updated (and don't @ me on this... I know how to find it in the library using "last updated" filter) or software updates to newer builds, etc.
Any chance this could return? It's really helpful.