Library Lovers Month: Get the Most from your Library

Library Lovers Month

February is, of course, Library Lovers Month. Great, you may be thinking. Well, we do. Whatever your feelings for the annual celebration, it is a great opportunity to make the most of your University library, explore all of its resources and have some great fun.

Some of you might be just casual visitors to your university library, utilising it only two days before deadline days, while others are regular guests. No matter of your previous experience and knowledge of the wonders of your University library, this month is a great chance to improve your experience, learn something new and have some fun in the process.

Yes, it’s possible to have fun in the library without taking your clothes off!

What Can Libraries Do for You?

The best thing about libraries, all libraries (old and new, modern and traditional, digital, specialised and anything in between) is that they provide both a great resource for your intellectual pursuits and a perfect atmosphere for relaxation and learning.

This doesn’t mean libraries are just about providing books needed to write essays, nor are they simply places you visit when you want something new to read. Libraries are both of those things, of course, but they’re also much more.

Libraries are no longer places where books are simply collected. On the contrary: contemporary libraries are places where people can get unrestricted access to all types of information. This information can come from many different sources and in many different forms.

For example, libraries are great central places for storing knowledge in written records, digital information or in-person from conversation with trained staff. Libraries keep many different types of materials, from conventional books to digital maps and music. Contemporary university libraries are well-connected to each other and the Internet, so they are your safe bet for finding exactly what you’re looking for. Not to mention you’ll also find numerous additional fascinating things and useful information.

Another great thing about libraries, especially large ones, is that they are great places for various events such as workshops, conferences and other activities. Most libraries have a very extensive schedule of events that you should check out. The list of subjects and activities libraries cover is extensive, from poetry readings, CV workshops, and even film screenings, the chances are that you’ll find an event you’re interested in.

Use Your University Library!

Your University library is a place you should visit often, because this is where you can access all types of information needed for your studies. University libraries are specially made to accommodate students and academics, so they contain a wide range of books and other sources of information needed for academic research and writing academic papers.

A great University library will give you access to academic information on so many levels, so both a first-year student and someone with a PhD are both likely to find materials for researching and writing their papers. They are designed to accommodate the whole academic community, so whether you want to learn about the subject your studying at a higher level, of you’ve just always fancied learning about Eastern European Popular Music in the 1940’s, there will be some texts that will be suitable to your level of existing knowledge.

Make sure to check your University library periodically. A good library always evolves and includes more and more resources and information. This will help you not only stay up-to-date with your subject knowledge, but will also help you plan your academic activities (particularly essay and paper writing).

Additional Resources

Here are some of the best resources you can use in your University library:

Internet and Digital Resources

Your University library is probably the place with the fastest and strongest Internet connection on the campus, so use it! It’s more than just a fast Internet connection: having access to your University library enables you to log in to many other websites and resources not open to general public. Many journal’s are accessible through the library internet connection too, meaning you can make your essay’s look awesome by throwing in a few periodical quotes and journal passages. Say hello to the First-Class Honours!

University libraries also offer numerous digital resources you can use online and offline. Resources such as specialist software that enables you to work on your coursework outside of the lab, and digital downloads of journal articles that are usually only available to you if you’re wearing those silly white gloves. Silly white gloves. It’s best to ask the staff about these resources and how to access them.

Study Rooms

Another great thing about University libraries is that they provide study rooms. There is usually at least one, centralised study room equipped with everything you need for comfortable studying. Typically, there are more study rooms across the campus so you can use the nearest one or perhaps the one you like the best.

Many University libraries also offer specialized study rooms, such as group study rooms. These are great for groups of students who wish to study together and can usually be booked in advance.

Events

While not resources per se, events are a great part of library life. Depending on the University and the library in question, there are many different types of events you can attend. From academic discussions, panels and conference to art exhibitions, University libraries offer a wide range of events you might want to visit.

Even more, University libraries are often places for interesting and informative workshops, courses and specific career events you’ll surely want to visit. Career events are particularly valuable for all students deciding on their career path and looking for specific advice on job offers and building your career.

If these types of events are offered in your University library, make sure to visit them. The events open additional opportunities you might want to pursue and many of the activities (such as workshops and classes) will help you develop new skills.

Useful Tips

Here are some additional tips on how to make the most of your library experience:

Make sure to familiarise yourself with your University library. It’s best to do it as soon as you enrol into college or university. You need to know how your University library is organized, where it’s located and what are the basic rules and regulations you need to follow. Visit the library and ask about all the different resources it offers. Make sure to check out if your University has one central library or many different branches located across the campus (or on different campuses).

It’s important to keep your library account secure. It’s not something you should share with anyone. Don’t lend your card to friends, don’t allow anyone to access to your account and make sure to keep all the passwords and PIN information to yourself. Remember, you are responsible for all items issued to your card and your account so it’s not something you want to mess up.

Check your email regularly. Your University library will send you emails with important info and announcements. You will also be able to receive notifications about overdue items or requested items, so it’s valuable to check the emails regularly. Many University libraries also send emails regarding the upcoming events so it’s a great thing to inform yourself about all the opportunities (workshops, exhibitions, courses and other events).

Visit your library’s website regularly to learn about the latest news and information. Sign up to their newsletter/mailing list.

Visit your library in person. Even if the library has a detailed website there are so many things and details you can only experience in person.

Finally, just remember to be quiet whilst in the library. Especially if you’ve taken your clothes off!