Learning the library – resources for students

Students spend much of their time studying. While some students opt for a café and others choose to stay at home, many students prefer to study in the library – and for good reason! In episode 17 of the Tiksu to UniTartu podcast, host Vincent Arata gets the inside scoop on University resources from Eda-Riin Tuuling, an Information Specialist at the University of Tartu Library.

Eda-Riin has been working at the University of Tartu Library for six years. She spent her first year at the library working at the Information Desk. She has been part of the Information Department for the last five years, running workshops on how to find scientific information and how to use reference managers and other academic tools.

The UT Library, located a five-minute walk from the UniTartu main building, has many resources accessible to university students and researchers. It is free to enter the building, and everyone is welcome to visit to study or use books in the building. There is also free UT Wi-Fi for to use for work that requires an internet connection. Connecting to the UT Wi-Fi also allows to access most e-resources provided by the library.

However, in order to check out a book to bring home, it is important to register as a reader. This can be done by filling out an online form or in person at the Information Desk in the lobby. An Estonian ID-card or residence permit can be used as a library card, or, if preferred, a separate card can also be purchased for use. Registering as a reader with the library also comes with additional perks, like being able to reserve study rooms.

To find a specific book, Eda-Riin recommends checking out the ESTER e-catalogue. ESTER is the system the library uses to keep track of which books are available, which books are checked out, and where in the library each book can be found. It can also be used to place books on hold. ESTER also shows resources held in institute libraries – the specialised libraries for different faculties and departments. Specific and up-to-date titles can often be found in institute libraries rather than the main library, so it is good to check out those resources, too. Borrowed books can be returned at any library; there’s no need to run all over town to return books to the “correct” library.

For more general searches, the top floor of the library is organised into themed reading rooms. Themes include Natural Sciences, Humanities, and Social Sciences. Each reading room is a designated silent area, meant for quiet studying. They have desks, chairs, and easily accessible power outlets for effective studying sessions. There’s usually plenty of available space, though it can get quite busy during exam seasons – medical students especially take advantage of the study spaces!

The library doesn’t just offer physical books. It boasts a large online collection, mostly through subscriptions to academic databases. These can be accessed at the library either by connecting to the UT Wi-Fi or using a library computer. They are also accessible off campus by connecting to the University VPN using University Credentials. There are also usually several exhibitions on display, showing curated collections that show off the library’s collections and explore Estonia’s culture and history.

Additionally, the library boasts a recreation room with gym equipment and a table tennis table. This space is especially great for taking a break during long-haul study sessions. There are also CDs and DVDs available to borrow from the Music Department from the library, which is a great way to discover new music and movies. The Music Department also has an electric piano that everyone can play (with headphones, of course), allowing anyone who doesn’t have a piano at home to practice. There is also a newly renovated dining room on the third floor. It hosts microwaves, dishes, and a dishwasher for students to bring their own food or reheat coffee on long study days.

Library resources aren’t just restricted to students and affiliated researchers. As previously mentioned, the library is free to use for browsing, studying, and enjoying the exhibitions on display. It is even possible to register as a non-UT reader, especially as a resident or student at another higher-education institution in Tartu. Information on eligibility can be found on the library website.

One resource that Eda-Riin highlighted in this episode is the personal consultation service available for booking. These consultations help students and researchers find literature, use databases, and work with reference managers. There are also e-courses and online guides to help guide students if they don’t have time for a consultation. The UT Counselling Centre is also located in the library, offering free study and psychological counselling for students and staff.

The episode ends with Vincent asking Eda-Riin for an Estonian literature recommendation for first-time readers. She recommends Tõnu Õnnepalu, saying, “His work is quiet, contemplative and thought-provoking, and available in several translations.”

Research can be daunting, but the University of Tartu Library has a plethora of resources available to help students succeed. Learn more about all available resources and services by visiting the website. Any specific questions or concerns not answered there can also be addressed by contacting library staff. Happy studying!

Listen to the "The Library Uncovered - Resources for Students" episode of the Tiksu to UniTartu podcast: