September 8, 2023

Meet Sydney CBD Campus Librarian, Lauren Richardson

Lauren, the Librarian at our Sydney CBD Campus, shares insights about the facilities and services on offer at the university library and how students can make the best use of the library and its' offerings.

What student services and events/workshops can our students access at the library?

Our Library offers a wide range of services and research workshops to support students in their academic journey. 

• Library Orientation: At the beginning of the Trimester, we conduct library orientations to introduce new students to the library's resources, services, and facilities. These sessions cover topics such as library policies, how to search the library catalogue, access online resources, and navigate the library website.
• Business Research Skills Workshops: we run research skills workshops to help students develop effective research strategies. These workshops cover topics such as literature searching, using academic databases, evaluating sources, citing references, and avoiding plagiarism, Turnitin. They aim to enhance students' information search skills and equip them with the tools necessary for successful research.
• Citation/Reference Management software Workshops: We offer a workshop on the citation management tool EndNote. This workshop teaches students how to organize references, generate citations and bibliographies, and collaborate with peers on research projects. Such workshops help students streamline their citation process and maintain accurate and consistent references.
• Research Consultations: Libraries provide one-on-one or small group consultations with librarians to assist students with their specific research needs. These consultations offer personalised guidance on finding relevant sources, refining research topics, and developing effective search strategies. Librarians can provide in-depth assistance and help students navigate complex research projects.
• Online Learning Resources: Libraries have developed online learning resources, including tutorials, video guides, and research guides. These resources are available 24/7 and cover topics such as database searching, citation styles, literature reviews, and research methodologies. They allow students to access information and enhance their research skills at their convenience. Finding information - Finding information - Guides at University of Wollongong Library (libguides.com)
• Interlibrary Loan Services: Libraries facilitate interlibrary loan services to access materials not available in their collection. Through interlibrary loans, students can request books, articles, or other resources from partner libraries. This service expands the range of materials accessible to students and supports their research needs.

What can students do to prepare themselves before seeking your assistance?

It's always a promising idea to have a look at the assignment questions and think about these few things: 

• How you want to answer the questions (the topics) you want to cover
• What type of information you are looking for or need (journal articles, statistics, financials, industry insights, government publications)

Then reach out (by phone, email, face to face) to make a time, include the assignment details, the subject, and a few preferences of times/days. 

How can students be supported by the library if they experience an issue?

Make time and reach out early in the Trimester. There will be workshops that are run in the first few weeks' session it is important that you attend or watch the recordings. This will help you find quality information efficiently. We can sit down for consultations and work through the assessments and map out which databases will work best and what type of evidence you need to support the points you want to make. 

When advising students who are facing difficulties, what guidance or suggestions do you provide to help them minimise stress and maintain an effective learning experience?

As a Librarian, there are several guidance and suggestions I can provide to help students minimise stress and maintain an effective learning experience. Here are some tips: 

• Time management: students create a schedule or a to-do list to manage their time effectively. Breaking down tasks into smaller, manageable chunks can reduce feelings of overwhelm and make studying more manageable. There is an assignment calculator tool that can help.
• Study environment: The Library provides a quiet and comfortable study environment where you can focus without distractions. There are also study rooms available to be booked.
• Utilise library resources: This includes access to books, e-books, online databases, research guides, academic journals, and other materials.
• Seek assistance: Please ask for help when needed. The library offers research support services where you can get assistance with your assignments, research, or any questions they may have.

What other tips or advice can you share for students who want to get the most out of the library facilities?

Spend the week before the trimester learning and getting familiar with the library website and databases. Complete the StartSmart program which will help you get acquainted with the library and our services. Attend the workshops that are run in the first three weeks of Trimester. You will learn how to navigate the library, learn how to get the most out of the databases and tips and tricks on how to find relevant information quickly. 

How do you typically spend your leisure time outside of work?

I like playing football (soccer) or watching my team Liverpool play.