Close-up image of Gorgas Library

It’s Library Lovers Month! Here’s What to Love About UA Libraries

February 11, 2020 Written by Melissa Parker 2 min read
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As a result of an ever-growing digital age, many college libraries have shifted. Floors that were once lined with rows and rows of printed pages, now hold fewer and fewer physical books. But in their place, millions of resources await.

A female student uses a laptop while sitting at a study table.
A student uses a Gorgas Library study space.

“We’re not loaning out as many books today as in the past,” said Michael Pearce, director of strategic engagement for UA Libraries. “We had to figure out how we, as a library, could continue to add value. To accomplish that, we now meet all the digital and multimedia needs of our students.”

All the relevant physical books are still available, and book circulation is still an important part of what the Libraries offer. Even the books that have been removed from the shelves are still available upon request, they just live in an off-site annex building.

UA Libraries are busier than ever, last year drawing 1,311,179 visitors — that’s around 34 visits per student.

This is largely due to the multitude of resources.

In honor of national Library Lovers Month, here are 10 things — beyond books — to love about the UA Libraries.

  1. The Libraries have always been great places to study, and recent renovations, particularly in Gorgas Library, provide an even better atmosphere. Entire floors are now dedicated to quiet, private study spaces.
  2. Reference librarians are available to give you one-on-one help with research. Request a consultation with them today.
  3. Every computer in each of the UA Libraries is equipped with nearly 200 specialized software packages.
  4. The Libraries loan AV equipment and laptops to students.
  5. You can use the Libraries’ printers to print your work, and they support 3D printing in all of their facilities.
  6. “Ask-A-Librarian” allows you to get reference help via email. You can get a question answered while you’re in your pajamas.
  7. If something you need is unavailable through UA Libraries, you can use the interlibrary loan service to get it.
  8. You can create an audio project, such as voiceovers, keyboard recordings and instrument recordings, in one of Gorgas Library’s two whisper booths.
  9. Bring your multimedia project to life at the Sanford Media Center. If you don’t know how to use the software and equipment, staff will teach you.
  10. You have 596 online database products to assist in your research. In addition, if you use Google Scholar, you can use the interface embedded at lib.ua.edu/research-tools/google-scholar and it will automatically identify what resources UA makes available.