Libraries make a difference

Do libraries really make a difference in students’ life? Yes, library does make a difference if one knows how to use it. Not only does it provide extensive research resources, it also provides an ideal environment for students to study for their tests, focus on their works, concentrate on reading, and, sometimes, take a sweet nap. Moreover, being in a school library gives a sense of unity, connection, and attachment. Also, a good library reflects school image; thus, it is seen as an axis of school. I have used Pasadena City College Shatford Library since last semester, fall 2007, and I was impressed by the help I got from the librarians, neat organization of the books, and the quality of sources I attained from various databases. Overall, Shatford Library makes a difference in PCC students’ life in that it expands students’ knowledge, helps students manage their time and achieve a higher grade on their papers: the key to college success lies in the library.

                Library furnishes a lot of books people of all ages can enjoy; not only does it serve as a resource center, but it also provides students with a place to read and borrow their favorite books from. A lot of knowledge comes from books. In other words, reading leads one to become an intellect, enlarges one’s view and often makes one realize what he/she is capable of. In addition, library opens a door for students to see what is out there, inviting them into the world of adventures.  Some people realize their ability through the books they read; thus, reading is mind exploring as well as knowledge seeking. By reading, one examines different aspects and looks at the issues and the world from different perspectives in addition to exploring curiosity. So, set aside some time for reading; students will gain a lot from what they read once they move into a big society; college life will be filled with knowledge and meanings, and it will enhance life of a student in the long run. 

                One of the most important study skills is time management. Even though many students are eager to follow their diligent schedules, they often fail to stick with his/her plan because of unexpected occasions and too many distractions. Thus, making a habit of coming to library at a scheduled time keeps one under control, helps maintain balanced life and spend a solid day. In fact, many students crowd in libraries when mid-term or final approaches. Often, constant failure in keeping up with schedule can result in procrastination and discouragement. In this respect, library is a perfect place to maintain scheduled life since it is isolated from most of the distractions that can be encountered in many other places. Furthermore, students are motivated to study in a gathered group; this creates a focused study environment. 

                Another key to college success is writing well-developed papers. When developing a point, background information, critics, analysis, and many other sources enable students to support their points in their essay. Thus, library serves as a resource center where all information comes in handy for students. Everyone wishes to achieve a high grade on their papers; writing research paper is inevitable in college students’ life; almost every paper student writes in college requires some amount of research. Some effective research skills include: the ability to spot various resources that relate to a topic and make a full use of things that are available in the library. However, often, students get too worn out even before they start researching because they regard that it requires painstaking process. But, the first step only requires simple surfing through the library website; it’s only one click.  By simply going through the library website, students can search for books, periodicals, biological information on a particular person, and scholarly articles at home at any hour. Moreover, library sources are considered trustworthy since they are carefully examined by professionals before they appear on any means. And the fliers on the use of citations are located in every notable places such as circulation desk, and reference desk. Many students struggle with writing research papers because they are not sure what to search for, and how to write it. So, they take too much time on going through the things that are irrelevant to their research.  But, once they follow the above procedures, students will become much more unburdened with overwhelming research process.  Furthermore, PCC students have access to the numerous sources at home, and they attend a full-on orientation on researching when students enroll in English classes. Doing effective research comes in every value not only in schools but also in work places. Thus, making a good use of library ultimately leads to gaining effective research skills which can be used in every day life. 

                Library is nothing without use; making good use of valuable resources in the Shatford library really makes a difference in students.  College life can be full of accomplishments if students make the best use of facilities at PCC. Setting goals is one thing but working through these goals is another; reaching them is just one step away: start your day with your visit at the Shatford library, then, look around and notice what’s there for you. Or, take a good seat and start your first scheduled day at the library, or just grab a book that interests you; you will acquire lifelong knowledge right in this place.