SEPTEMBER 9, 2024 — Students at UTSA are finding exciting new resources at UTSA Libraries this semester, enhancing their learning and collaboration experiences. From cutting-edge tech gear available for borrowing to the new Librarian Lab, the UTSA Libraries is key to supporting students in their academic journey.
“Our priority is to support the diverse needs of our students and faculty,” said Dean Hendrix, vice provost of the UTSA Libraries and university librarian. “We aim to provide access to the latest technology, resources, and spaces that promote learning, collaboration, and creativity.”
New resources
Over the summer, the library's technology team worked hard to enhance student technology access. They prepared over 100 laptops for semester-long loans and set up 45 new laptops for 24-hour borrowing. With 65 laptops available daily at the John Peace Library (JPL) on the Main Campus and 10 at the Downtown Library (DTL), students can easily access online books and university-wide programs to stay connected with their professors, courses and peers.
“Our laptop loan program is one of our most popular offerings,” said Karina Franco, head of library access services. “We introduced semester-long laptop loans during the COVID-19 pandemic to support students in online classes. While many students continue to rely on this service, others benefit from borrowing laptops for shorter, 24-hour periods, keeping our staff busy daily.”
Beyond laptops, the UTSA Libraries offer a variety of tech tools for checkout, including financial and scientific calculators, iClickers, chargers, power banks, tripods, desk lamps and webcams. These resources are designed to help students succeed throughout the semester.
Introducing the Librarian Lab
The Librarian Lab on the JPL's second floor (2.01.08D) is a significant addition to the library’s offerings. The lab’s convenient location makes it easier for students to connect with librarians for in-person assistance, enhancing access to research support and guidance.
“With 16 librarians who serve as subject specialists to over 60 academic departments and programs, students have access to a librarian who can specifically help with their major,” said William Glenn, the head of reference and instruction and the subject librarian for music. “Our librarians can help students find articles for their assignments, provide research assistance on their papers and projects, and teach about the many library resources in their subject area.”
Students should feel free to schedule an appointment with their subject librarian. Library peer mentors are available in the lab every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to noon to assist students.
UTSA Libraries and its many services are an essential component of the college experience for students.
The UTSA community may access library services at the JPL, the Applied Engineering and Technology Library (AET) on the Main Campus, and the DTL. Both the JPL and the DTL are open seven days a week, and the JPL offers 24-hour access Monday through Friday.
“We are dedicated to making every visit an enriching experience for our students and faculty,” Hendrix added.
Explore Further
Find a full list of library hours and locations