26 Tips for Using the University Library
What subject resources are available in the Library
As a student, tapping into the subject-specific resources at your fingertips is the key to unlocking a world of intellectual exploration. Explore reading lists and recommended resources curated by your lecturer and Subject Librarian.
Meet your Subject Librarian: your Subject Librarian will be the best source of specialist library support for your subject area.
Browse your Subject Area: get familiar with the section of the library where your subject reference books are located.
Browse Recommended Reading: find books from your Recommended Reading List using the library catalogue.
Check out the Recommended Resources: Browse the recommended resource for your subject area.
Ask for Recommendations: ask your lecturers for recommendations on books or resources available in the library.
How to make the most of the Library
Making the most of your university library starts with a discovery session to determine what you have to work with and who can help you the most.
Take the Library Tour: it’s a great way to meet the librarians and learn about the services available from your university library.
Explore the Academic Skills Support Programmes: programmes designed to help you make the most of your learning.
Meet the team: the library staff can help you navigate the library and find the resources you need.
Borrow Books and Other Resources: Academic journals, DVDs, newspapers, magazines, and other archives can be great resources for papers and projects.
Plan in Advance: if you are using the university library for specific resources, check in advance that the resources you need are available.
Reserve a Table or Computer: check if you need to reserve a table or computer ahead of time.
Choose a Study Space: choose a study space that best suits your study needs.
Ask for Help: the university library has a team of expert staff on had to help you use the library and find the information you need for your studies.
Using the Library
Before diving into your studies, prepare for a seamless library experience with these tips.
Bring your Student ID: you will need your Student ID to access the library and use a number of the library services like printing, scanning, borrowing, and reserving books.
Take Headphones: if you like to listen to the research papers using a text-to-audio reader, then pack headphones if you are planning to work in the library.
Limit Distractions: avoid bringing anything that can be a distraction to you or other students.
Don’t Leave your Personal Belongings Unattended: if you are studying alone and need to leave your desk or space and take your personal belongings with you.
Printing and Scanning: you will need to load money onto your student library account and then using your student ID you will be able to photocopy pages, scan to PDF or print from the computer.
Copyright Laws: in compliance with Copyright Law there are limits to the amount of material that you can print and photocopy.
Set Reminders to Avoid Fines: avoid fines for overdue books by setting a reminder on your phone for books that need to be returned by a specific date.
Use the Online Help: you can use the online Library Help function for a quick reply.
Learn about the Library
The university library is more than a repository of books; it is a dynamic ecosystem designed to nurture intellectual curiosity and scholarly pursuits. Find out more about the library to make the most of this resource.
Use the Library Website: the library website is the go-to resource to learn what services are on offer from your university library.
Familiarise yourself with the Opening and Closing Hours: knowing when your library is open will help you schedule your research and study time.
Follow the Library Rules for Good Practice: read them so you are aware of the good practice you should follow to be mindful and respectful of the different users of the library so everyone can benefit.
Quiet Study Areas: if you need quiet study avoid places near walkways and corridors where lots of people are coming and going.
Library Wifi: If you have a phone, tablet, or laptop you may be able to use the library WiFi using your student login details.
Summary
The Library is one of the primary information hubs in your university. Whether in person or online the university has many teams of information specialists who are employed exclusively to support your academic journey.
Whether you are looking for a specific book to borrow, a quiet space to study, or help to accommodate special needs, the university library provides countless services.
Evaluating what options are available and who may help you best can make your time at university productive and successful.
University Librarian provides a blog, notebooks, and tools for students who want to improve their study skills.
