Loughborough University Library: A Comprehensive Guide
The Loughborough University Library is a cornerstone of academic life at the university, offering a vast array of resources and services to students, staff, and researchers. Whether you’re a new student or a seasoned academic, this guide will provide you with an in-depth look at what the library has to offer.
Location and Access
The library is situated at the heart of the Loughborough University campus, making it easily accessible to all students and staff. The main entrance is on the ground floor of the University House building, and it is open 24/7 during term time, providing round-the-clock access to study spaces and resources.
Facilities and Services
The library boasts a range of facilities and services designed to support your academic journey. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
| Facility/Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Study Spaces | From quiet study rooms to group study areas, the library offers a variety of spaces to suit different needs. |
| Computers and Printing | There are numerous computers available for student use, as well as printing, scanning, and copying facilities. |
| Bookable Rooms | Students can book private study rooms for group work or individual study sessions. |
| Reference Collection | The library holds a comprehensive collection of reference materials, including dictionaries, encyclopedias, and handbooks. |
| Special Collections | Explore the university’s unique collections, including rare books, manuscripts, and archives. |
| Research Support | The library offers a range of research support services, including help with literature searches, data management, and referencing. |
Library Collections
The library’s collections are extensive and cover a wide range of subjects. Here’s a snapshot of what you can find:
- Books: Over 300,000 books are available, covering all academic disciplines taught at the university.
- Journal Articles: Access to over 100,000 journal titles, both in print and electronic formats.
- Online Resources: A vast array of online databases, e-books, and e-journals are available for research purposes.
- Archives: The library holds a rich collection of archives, including the Loughborough University Archive and the Loughborough Echo newspaper archive.
Library Services for Students
The library offers a range of services specifically designed to support students:
- Library Induction: New students are invited to attend an induction session to familiarize themselves with the library’s facilities and services.
- Research Skills Workshops: Regular workshops are held to help students develop their research skills.
- One-to-One Support: Librarians are available to provide individual support and guidance on research and referencing.
- Reading Lists: The library provides access to reading lists for all modules, ensuring students have the necessary materials for their studies.
Library Services for Staff and Researchers
The library also offers a range of services to support staff and researchers:
- Research Data Management: The library provides guidance and support on managing research data.
- Open Access Publishing: The library offers advice and support on open access publishing and research dissemination.
- Journal Subscriptions: The library works with academic departments to ensure access to key journals in their fields.
- Library Training: Regular training sessions are held to help staff and researchers make the most of the library’s resources.
Library Events
The library hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including:
- Book Launches: Celebrate the work of Loughborough University authors and researchers.
- Workshops: Attend workshops on topics such as referencing, data management, and research skills.
- Guest Speakers: Hear from leading experts in their fields.