As a student on the cusp of graduating, I realised that the library played such a poignant role during university. From hysterical laughter at the café to whispered pep-talks in quiet study, the library walls have seen it all. So, it made me think, why is the library so important to students?
Great place to spend time with friends…
I have clocked-in countless study hours at the library, which would have been impossible without my friends. I met most of them there and we have made wonderful, lifelong memories.
…or by yourself
If your house is not ‘study-friendly’, the library is perfect for spending focussed quiet time on university work or even on yourself. When university became overwhelming, I would huddle on a chair on ground floor and people-watch the active Whiteknights campus. Or I’d wander through a rarely-visited floor and pick interesting books to read.
There is always a place for you
The benefit of having a 6-storey building for a library is that there will always be a seat for you.
One time, a friend was having tensions with her housemates and labelled the library her ‘safe solace’ where she spent exam season in. When houses were too cold for Autumn term assignments, my friends and I would complete them in the comforting warmth of the library. No matter what reason we had sought the library for, it never fell short of providing for us.
Essential for your degree
Whilst most texts are provided online, there is the occasional textbook you may have to loan. Participating in library inductions could help you learn how to use library facilities. In other words, familiarising yourself with library resources could help you get good grades!
Technology
Did you know that you can loan a laptop from the library? As someone who arrived at university with a second-hand laptop, this was handy when my laptops inevitably broke. In first year, I used first-floor docking stations and screens as a second screen for my assignments. The PCs are useful for students who may not always have well-functioning tech accessible to them and the best part is, you could use them anytime!
24/7 access
The library is open almost all the time. Whether you are an early bird or a night owl, you can always pay the library a visit. This is brilliant because as students, our working schedules are inconsistent. The library does a wonderful job at catering to all students through its flexibility.
Advice
There is always someone you could ask for help. Tricky course content? Visit your Academic Liaison Librarian. Struggling to study? Speak to study advice. Finding it hard to navigate the library? Ask the librarians. The best part is your problem will be resolved in seconds!
Study treats
The irresistible smell of fresh croissants from the Library Café is forever etched in my brain. During peak dissertation season, the café and vending machines is what helped me power through my work. The food is delicious and if you want to take a ‘chat break’, the café is a great place to do that. Remember to bring your own cup for a cheaper price on your coffee!
As you can see, the library was fundamental to my university experience. My biggest advice for first-years is to make great use of the library and its countless resources. It offers a lot for everyone’s varying needs and there will always be a seat for you!