Last week, students new and returning filled classrooms, the Mountainlair, PRT stations, — and WVU’s libraries. Why? To find a space to “lock-in” on new courses, challenges, and academic goals with other like-minded students.
While some students grabbed study rooms with new friends, others sought a quiet place to themselves that also had a motivating tether to others with similar focus.
“Today seemed like a library day,” said graduating senior Taylor Mullins, majoring in animal nutrition sciences with a minor in equestrian studies. “The library is a great place and a quiet environment to lock-in.”
Other students, freshman to second-year master’s candidates, said they were visiting the library to build better study habits, utilize research and study guides, and prepare for classes.
“The libraries infuse a sense of responsibility,” said second-year English master’s student Marvellous Taiwo.
Faculty: Help Drive Library Use
Faculty are a driving force behind student use and exploration of the libraries. Your reminders and encouragement to use the libraries is one of the most powerful ways to promote library services and spaces.
WVU Libraries are intellectual, cultural, and social centers that support the University’s strategic priorities. As a vital third space, the libraries offer an environment beyond the dormitory and the classroom where students can engage with peers and access essential information resources and services. A few key highlights are:
Access information. Remind students of the 3 million books, 195,000 journals, and 669 databases they have access to via our collections. If we do not have what the student is looking for, they can borrow through our interlibrary loan system.
Discover collections. Highlight WVU Libraries’ extensive online collections, featuring current and historical resources to enhance research for coursework.
Explore spaces. Encourage students to find and use the Student Lounge, Graduate Research Commons (exclusive graduate student space), and other rooms for personal or group use.
Ask a librarian. Point out for students who don’t know where to start that they can always ask a librarian directly via chat, email, or phone.
Additionally, WVU Libraries provides teaching resources and tools for faculty, including student plagiarism avoidance tutorials, librarian-led instruction, research skills workshops, and more. You can request instruction or email the Student Success & Instruction (SSI) team to partner with our experts.
Ask a librarian for any questions or requests.