Adam Walser, Buchanan Library coordinator, rents out a laptop – just one of the many resources available to students within the Polytechnic library. Photo by Prom Zeppeli.

Many students may not realize the Buchanan Library offers more then just books or a quiet place to study. The library, located in Lethbridge Polytechnic’s central hub, provides a range of resources designed to support student success.

              The Buchanan Library offers a range of services, including textbook and laptop rentals, database research support and access to the Learning Café, which helps students build academic skills such as writing and study habits. It also provides access to virtual reality tools for presentation practice. However, staff say many students are unaware of these resources.

              “I do think that not everybody knows the services that we have,” says Adam Walser, Buchanan Library coordinator.

              Walser says he does not think that the library is under-utilized but associated primarily as a place for books.

              “I think a lot of times people associate the library with books and a space, but it’s about knowing all the different services and resources that are in the library because it’s a learning hub,” he says.

              The Buchanan Library offers a variety of rental services, including textbooks, laptops and power banks. Students enrolled within any of the health sciences programs have access to anatomical models, including skeletal materials and diagrams, to assist their studies. Virtual reality headsets are available for students looking to practice public speaking in a 3D environment.

The library also provides non-academic resources, including a graphic novel section and popular novels that allow for students to take a break from their studies.

              “I know students sometimes feel they are only reading books for school and need a chance to relax,” says Walser. “That’s one of our goals – to provide that space.”

              Students who have taken advantage of these resources say it has contributed to their academic success.

              “The Learning Cafe is a great resource. I’ve used it for countless papers, and it’s been a lifesaver,” says Lisa Domagala, a second-year massage therapy student. “I’ve also rented books here for some papers I’ve had to write, and it’s been really helpful to have those materials.”

              While she prefers traditional study methods, Domagala says the digital tools she learned through the Learning Café have helped her build study guides, routines and organization.

              Many students are now combining both traditional and digital approaches to studying, taking advantage of the range of resources available.

              Walser says the Buchanan Library has been responsive to emerging technologies, including the use of artificial intelligence.

He says library staff are working to support students in understanding the ethical use of A.I. in their studies. The library is also developing a web-based tool which will provide guidance when navigating A.I. and their research.

              “I think it will be a lot more user-friendly and make that digital experience better for students,” says Walser.

              Walser says while the library continues to expand its digital resources, creating a welcoming space for students remains a priority.

              He says some students may feel anxious about visiting the library, but student support is available both in person and library’s online chat, which offers a lower barrier way to ask for help. Students can also book one-on-one appointments with staff.

Walser says the goal is to make the library a welcoming third space for students.

“We try to be inclusive so students feel like the library is a home away from home,” says Walser. “We see familiar faces, and it’s a heart-warming thing to see.”

              As the winter semester ends, the Buchanan Library continues to support students academically and personally. From rental services and research assistance to accessing the digital database and a welcoming third space, the Buchanan Library offers a variety of resources where students can learn, relax and succeed.