[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The first week of starting varsity usually consists of an orientation week in order to ease new students into the workings of everyday varsity-life. During this time, students are informed about a schedule of events, one of which includes orientation for the libraries and computer labs. This is a MUST DO! Jamie-Lee breaks down her experience with the UCT libraries.
Main Library for Undergrads
The Undergraduate Research Wing in the main library on UCT’s Upper Campus (the Chancellor Oppenheimer Library behind the Jammie Hall) is for all undergraduates, regardless of which academic department students are from. Students have access to a variety of workspace options, which includes study desks, computer work stations, comfy couches with power and network points for laptops, group project areas, and audio-visual viewing facilities.
Department and Faculty-Specific Libraries
All over the various UCT campuses, there are smaller, department or faculty-specific libraries. They are usually close to or in the building of their respective department and faculty.
Some include:
- Health Sciences Library on Medical Campus
- Brand van Zyl Law Library on Middle Campus
- H. Bell Music Library adjacent to the South African College of Music Hiddingh Hall Library near Michaelis School of Fine Art
Most of the libraries have a lounge area where students can study in comfort and quietness. Some of the libraries are located near a cafeteria or vending machines that offer coffee, tea or hot chocolate, and snacks.
The Knowledge Commons
Even though my department is based on Medical Campus, my favourite library spot is the Knowledge Commons on Upper Campus. It provides a quiet environment, ideal for those of us who prefer to get work done without any disturbances. It features a series of desks and computers that are subdivided into ‘private cubicles’ with printing, copying, and scanning facilities below the computer area.
Students generally honour the quietness, and lab administrators also help to make sure that there is no noise. It’s a popular space to study in, so be prepared to wait in a queue.
It is one of the most conducive environments for studying and meeting last minute deadlines, because time is not limited on the desks and computers – but if you leave the computer for more than 15mins, the lab administrators have the authority to remove your belongings, log you off and allow another student access to the computer.
So use the library – it’s there for you. Honour the spirit of quietness and keep your computer or tablet safe and do not leave it unattended.
Bring Your Student Card
In order to access the libraries you will need a student card. There are electronic access control points where students are required to swipe their card at the entrance to the libraries, which will allow them access inside. If you don’t have your card, you might not get in. The security also tends to do checks for valid students cards.
School learners and students from a different university are not permitted into the libraries. If other members of the public want to visit the libraries they are requested to pay R60.00 per library entry with proof of ID before entering the library of their interest.
Wi-Fi Access
There is great Wi-Fi access for students in residences and on campus. The Wi-Fi is generally very reliable, and students get 3GB of Internet access each month. To find out how you can set up and connect your device (laptop, tablet, phone, etc.) to the network, click here. If you struggle to set up your Wi-Fi yourself, seek help from a lab administrator in one of the computer labs. From my experience, there usually are enough computers in the various libraries, in case you don’t have your own laptop or did not bring your laptop to varsity.
FundiConnect 2cents
The basic rules and procedures are pretty much the same at all university libraries. You’ll need your student card to gain access and the libraries will have various quiet study areas to help you zone in on your work.
Have a look at ‘UCT Libraries. Part 2: Where to find help?‘ for more information on part-time jobs at UCT.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
