The Library has always been my favorite public place. As a kid I was always fascinated by its spacious rooms with even rows of books, where silence reigns, and the expectation of new discoveries and knowledge is in the air.
Just imagine my joy when I found out that I would be interning in our university library as part of the Humanities in Practice course. For me, the opportunity to be part of the library was akin to some people’s childhood dream of being an owner of an ice cream van. In March of this year, a childhood dream came true, and I spent three interesting weeks in our university library as an intern. As the three of us were received so warmly, when the time came, I did not want to say goodbye at all.
My other dream was to write an article for a newspaper or magazine and, let’s say, to leave a mark on history. I take this opportunity to fulfill two of my dreams this spring, so that you do not forget that the library has not lost its relevance. Moreover, its team strives every day to create a supportive and enriching learning environment by offering a variety of resources and activities that can help you achieve your educational goals. When, if not during the exam period, to remind students that the library is always ready to help, navigate and provide you with comfortable workplaces.
So, I want to share five useful tips from the university library during the exam period… and for all time! First, maintain a work-life balance – visit the library at any time during the day. Yes, you have 24/7 access to the library with your student card! I think this is the coolest thing ever!
Secondly, keep fit and keep your writing in good form by using KildeKompaset. It helps with correct citing and provides an understanding of sources evaluation.
Third, stay comfortable and connected. Do you want to prepare for the exams in your hometown, or maybe abroad? Perhaps you only need to take a home exam, and you have already left Kristiansand? Use ‘VPN’ to stay connected to all electronic resources and databases in the library.
Fourth, stay organized and use EndNote to keep your notes in order. Do you know what it is and how it works?
Then there is the fifth tip: Seek support! Yes, I know it’s not easy, but it’s very important and useful. Every weekday from 10 to 14, library staff are waiting for you at the Guidance Desk on the first floor next to the stairs to answer your questions regarding literature search, use of sources, source criticism, reference techniques and more. You can also book an online appointment through the university’s website in the library section.
By the way, the university library offers courses in many subjects that you need to know in order to succeed as a student. When I first started my bachelor’s degree here at UIA, the APA 7th library course proved to be a lifeline for me in a sea of my first midterm essays. Check Instagram or the course section on the university library website to keep up to date on the course schedule.
Next time you come to the library, pay attention to the exhibitions on the ground floor in the magazine area and on the second floor by the elevator. There you will always find interesting collections of books on certain topics. For example, on the current political agenda, an upcoming holiday, or a decade of a certain literary genre. And do not forget to look around when you are in the library, you will see a lot of interesting announcements about upcoming events. And, when you find out about them, be sure to come and learn new things and meet new people.
Well, it turned out to be a kind of public declaration of love for the library. You may not admit it, but I know there are many of us who love library.
Header image by jcomp on freepik: https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/book-library-with-open-textbook_3737794.htm#fromView=search&page=1&position=2&uuid=60077775-24a6-4b30-b1f3-9bdc9bd759c2
