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Tips for using college library resources and the web

9 Tips for Using College Library Resources and the Web Effectively

Some of the most valuable resources for you in college are the library and the web (internet). You may know how to use them, but knowing tips for using college library resources and the web effectively will save you money and improve your grades. Every college library is different and may differ in specifics of library policies like duration of borrowing period, fines, etc. However, general policies are standard among them, like borrowing books, maintaining silence in the library, etc.

In this article, I will discuss 9 tips for using college library resources and the web effectively to save money and score better grades. 

1. Browse the subject guides.

Browse the subject guides on the library website to get information, like related databases, tutorials, reference material, contact details of the librarian, etc. To browse the subject guides, visit the library website, select “subject guides,” and select your course.

2. Use related databases from your subject guide.

Use related databases from your subject guide to get access to journal articles, research papers, recommended books, etc. You can find relevant sources for your topic by filtering the database by topic. Filtering and sorting functions can save you time from reading non-relevant study materials.

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3. Use the referencing guide.

Use the referencing guide and learn how to find and reference electronic sources, printed study materials, etc. The referencing guide contains examples to make you understand the process clearly. This referencing guide could be Harvard’s original referencing or a customized guide by your college.

4. Book a tutorial for using the library effectively.

Colleges have library staff that can give you a detailed tutorial on browsing or searching relevant resources in the library. You can ask for a tutorial from a librarian or a student librarian mentor. This tutorial will guide you on how to find different sources, use the library website, understand databases, etc.

5. Read reserve course readings.

Read reserve course textbooks and other study materials to save money. College libraries have textbooks and other study materials on “reserve.” You can borrow these “reserve” resources. To find out if your preferred textbook is on “reserve,” do the following:

  • Check if your course’s recommended reading is reserved by asking the librarian or checking the library catalog.
  • Check on your library website to see if they offer digital resources. The library can offer e-books and digital copies of journals and research on its website.
  • Ask your instructor if there are any reserve resources for the course.

6. Get a job at the library.

Get a job at the library to learn about its resources while earning money. College libraries offer employment to their students. You can become a library expert and use these learnings in college if you choose to work there. To get a job at the library, do the following:

  • Browse your college’s student employment website and check if there is an opening for the library.
  • Contact the library’s hiring manager and ask for the job.
  • Ask them to put your name on the list of prospects for the future if there is no current opening at the library.

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7. Study in library

Study in the library if you require quiet and silent places. Libraries have specific quiet and silent zones and are usually marked on their maps. In these quiet zones, strict guidelines exist to maintain silence and not create any disturbances. You can use these quiet zones to study with improved focus. These quiet zones are suitable for better concentration and focus.

8. Use computers and wifi.

Use computers and wifi at the library to finish some digital assignments or browse something on the internet. College libraries have computers and wifi available to their students. You can use wifi and a computer to browse and read course-related materials and download free course-related notes and lectures online.

9. Print and scan notes

Print and scan notes or study materials using the library-provided printer and scanner. You can use your student ID to print and scan preferred notes, study materials, diagrams, and digital documents. You should follow the copyright and plagiarism laws of the college.

Final Words

Libraries and the web (internet) are some of the most valuable resources for a college student. You should use them for reading course materials, journals, research papers, etc. Using the library and web effectively can save you money in your college days. The 9 tips discussed in this article will help you use the library and web effectively. So, follow them.

Emily Watson
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