Today I explored some of the libraries on campus to check out some of the non-academic resources that they offer. I wanted to explore some options in the libraries that would let me de-stress. So, come along with me on an adventure to find some fun and relaxing resources offered through the UBC Libraries!
Woodward
The Woodward Library is a little out of the way if you aren’t in the Sciences, but it has a very fun addition that allows students a chance to have fun and embrace their creative side: The Lego Table! This fun activity is on Woodward’s main floor, right by the Great Reads section and the information desk, and has multiple bins of Legos for you to get building with! It’s a great spot if you want a fun, easy activity to take a break from studying or if you just want to enjoy a little peace, quiet, and Lego.
Photo by Paul Joseph on Flickr
Education Library
While the Education Library has a lot of great fiction books, I was in the mood for something more outdoors-y and that I might be able to turn into a hobby. My roommate and I have been talking about starting a garden, so that we’re able to get fresh herbs and veggies without having to go to the grocery store. Luckily for us, the Education Library has one of the many branches of the UBC Seed Library! The seeds are located at a couple of branches on campus, and the one in Education is right behind the reference desk on the left side. While gardening takes more work than building Lego, I’m excited to start and the Seed Library allows me to ‘borrow’ seeds for free. And all I have to do to ‘return’ my seed packet is to bring back some seeds from the veggies I grow!
Photo by UBC Library Communications and Marketing on Flickr
Koerner
Now that it’s getting a little later and all my studying is finished for the day, I’m thinking of taking the night off to relax and unwind. And what better way to take a longer break than with a movie night? As much as I enjoy streaming services, sometimes the amount of choices makes it too daunting to settle on just one movie and if I have an idea of what movie I want to watch beforehand, the frequent changes to their selection means that I usually can’t even find the movie. So, imagine my surprise when I found out that Koerner Library has an entire catalog of movies on DVD! The collection is located just behind the reference desk on the main floor, and has a large selection which includes just about anything, from Studio Ghibli films to National Geographic’s March of the Penguins documentary series. I have a DVD player at home, but if you don’t, come visit us at the Chapman Learning Commons Help Desk and we’d be happy to lend you one!
Photo by UBC Library Communications and Marketing on Flickr
While I spend most of my time on campus studying or going to classes, this little adventure gave me the chance to explore campus and to find some new (to me!) things that can help me take a break from my studies, either during the day or when I’m at home! I’m so glad that I was able to share this experience with you, and I hope this adventure of ours will encourage you to check out everything the libraries have to offer! What’s your favourite library “hidden gem”? I would love to hear about it in the comments below!
