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The exterior of Watson library. Watson is one of seven libraries on campus, and is primarily home to the humanities and social science collections.
Getting to know the libraries on campus
TANNER HASSELL
@thassell17
Studying can be a process for some students, one that is unique and different for every person. Some jam out to their favorite music, while others need complete silence to focus. Some get together with friends, while others shut themselves away. Some prefer the privacy of their room or apartment, while others prefer the library.
The libraries at the University have much to offer students, and whether you're a seasoned Jayhawk or new on the hill, getting to know the libraries could help you in your academic endeavors.
"There are seven libraries on campus, with lots of spaces for students to use as well as extensive collections, both online and print, that all students in all disciplines should be utilizing," said Jill Becker, head of the Center for Undergraduate Initiatives and Engagement at Watson Library.
Becker said five of the libraries are specific to schools and subjects. These include: Spahr Engineering Library, the Art & Architecture library, the Music & Dance Library, Kenneth Spencer Research Library and the Wheat Law Library.
Anschutz Library and Watson Library are more diverse in content and services, and are used by a larger variety of students, she
said.
"Watson, which is sometimes called the main library, mostly has humanities and social science collections, as well as the international collections," Becker said. "Anschutz is very popular with undergraduate students. The learning studio is located there, which is a collaborative learning space. The writing center is there also, as well as tutoring services, group study spaces and research assistance. Anschutz also houses the sciences, education, business and political document collections."
Sydney Wickliffe, a junior and University library intern, said she prefers Watson when it comes to studying, and Anschutz for finals
"I think Anschutz is a great place, but it feels a little more social, which makes it hard for me to study," Wickliffe said. "The learning studio in Anschutz is one of my favorite services that the libraries offer. I used it a lot during finals to study with friends. It's really nice to have your own space with a whiteboard to work."
Wickliffe said Watson will also have its own, smaller area similar to the learning studio this semester. It will also have new furniture and power outlets to make group studying easier, according to Becker.
"New furniture is being placed on the third and fifth floors of Watson to better meet the needs of students," Becker said. "The old furniture was a little dated, and wasn't conducive to the kind of studying that students like to do. There will also be more power outlets for students to use."
In addition to new group studying options in Watson, Becker said students will also be able to practice presentations in the new Studio K.
"We installed what we're calling Studio K, which is a
studio where students can practice presentations. It's a private setting with all of the technology students will need to record and watches themselves," Becker said.
When it comes to learning about library services, Becker said stopping in for a visit is a good first step to take, as well as asking librarians for help.
"Firstly, visiting us or going to the website is the best way to find out what we have to offer," Becker said. "Secondly, I really want students to know that it's ok to ask for help. Research can be really challenging, especially in a large library system like what we have here at
File Photo/KANSAN Students walk through the entrance to Anschutz library. Anschutz is commonly used for studying.
Going to the librarians with questions is one of the best things students can do to find out what the libraries have, Wickliffe said.
"I really would recommend becoming familiar with the people working at the front desk and throughout the library, no matter which one you are at. I feel like a lot of people don't know about some of the resources that are available through the libraries. Forming those relationships is so useful because they know so much about what is going on." Wickliffe said.
KU."
Becker said students can communicate with library staff online, as well as in person.
"Students can chat with librarians online through Ask a Librarian, which is one of our more popular
resources. Students can ask questions or even set up a meeting with library staff for general questions and research consultation," Becker said.
For more information, visit lib.ku.edu, and find out how you can best utilize the resources available.
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