10+ Ames Library Secrets For Top Grades

The Ames Library is a vast resource for students, offering a wide range of materials, services, and study spaces to support academic success. However, many students are not aware of the numerous secrets and hidden gems that the library has to offer. In this article, we will delve into 10+ Ames Library secrets that can help students achieve top grades.

Introduction to the Ames Library

The Ames Library is a state-of-the-art facility that provides students with access to over 500,000 print and electronic resources, including books, journals, databases, and multimedia materials. The library also offers a range of services, including research assistance, writing support, and technology help. With its comfortable study spaces, collaborative workrooms, and innovative technology, the Ames Library is an ideal place for students to study, research, and learn.

Secret 1: Personalized Research Assistance

One of the best-kept secrets of the Ames Library is the personalized research assistance offered by the library’s staff. Students can schedule one-on-one consultations with a librarian to discuss their research topics, develop a research strategy, and learn how to effectively use the library’s resources. This service is particularly useful for students working on research papers, theses, or dissertations.

For example, a student working on a research paper on climate change can schedule a consultation with a librarian to discuss the best databases to use, how to evaluate sources, and how to organize their research. The librarian can also provide guidance on how to use specialized tools, such as citation management software, to streamline the research process.

Secret 2: Access to Exclusive Online Resources

The Ames Library provides students with access to a wide range of exclusive online resources, including academic databases, e-books, and streaming services. These resources can be accessed from anywhere, at any time, using the library’s online portal. Students can use these resources to conduct research, watch educational videos, and read e-books related to their coursework.

For instance, students can use the library's online database, JSTOR, to access thousands of academic articles and research papers on various subjects. They can also use the library's e-book collection to read digital versions of textbooks and other course materials.

Secret 3: Collaborative Study Spaces

The Ames Library offers a range of collaborative study spaces, including group study rooms, multimedia workstations, and quiet areas. These spaces are designed to facilitate group work, brainstorming, and problem-solving. Students can reserve these spaces online and use them to work on projects, study for exams, and collaborate with their peers.

For example, a group of students working on a team project can reserve a group study room to brainstorm ideas, assign tasks, and work on their project. The room is equipped with a whiteboard, markers, and a large screen display, making it an ideal space for collaborative work.

Secret 4: Technology Lending Program

The Ames Library offers a technology lending program that allows students to borrow laptops, tablets, and other devices for use in the library or at home. This program is particularly useful for students who do not have access to a computer or other devices. Students can borrow devices for a short period, such as a day or a week, or for an entire semester.

For instance, a student who does not have a laptop can borrow one from the library to work on a project or study for an exam. The library also offers a range of software and tools, such as Adobe Creative Cloud, that students can use on the borrowed devices.

Secret 5: Writing Support Services

The Ames Library offers writing support services, including one-on-one consultations, writing workshops, and online resources. Students can get help with writing papers, theses, and dissertations, as well as with grammar, punctuation, and style. The library’s writing support services are designed to help students improve their writing skills and produce high-quality written work.

For example, a student working on a research paper can schedule a consultation with a writing tutor to discuss the paper's structure, content, and style. The tutor can provide feedback on the paper's strengths and weaknesses and offer suggestions for improvement.

Secret 6: Career Development Resources

The Ames Library offers a range of career development resources, including career counseling, resume review, and job search assistance. Students can use these resources to explore career options, develop a career plan, and prepare for job interviews. The library also offers a range of online resources, such as career assessments and job search databases, that students can use to support their career development.

For instance, a student who is unsure about their career path can use the library's career counseling services to explore different options and develop a career plan. The library's career counselor can help the student identify their strengths and interests and provide guidance on how to pursue their career goals.

Secret 7: Interlibrary Loan Services

The Ames Library offers interlibrary loan services that allow students to borrow materials from other libraries. This service is particularly useful for students who need access to rare or specialized materials that are not available in the Ames Library. Students can request materials online and have them delivered to the Ames Library or to their home address.

For example, a student working on a research paper on a specialized topic can use the library's interlibrary loan services to borrow a rare book or article from another library. The library's staff will work with the student to locate the material and arrange for its delivery.

Secret 8: Study Skills Workshops

The Ames Library offers study skills workshops that cover topics such as time management, note-taking, and test-taking strategies. These workshops are designed to help students develop the skills they need to succeed in their coursework and achieve their academic goals. Students can attend these workshops in person or online and can also access online resources and tutorials on the library’s website.

For instance, a student who is struggling with time management can attend a workshop on effective time management strategies. The workshop will cover topics such as prioritizing tasks, creating a schedule, and avoiding procrastination.

Secret 9: Online Tutoring Services

The Ames Library offers online tutoring services that allow students to get help with their coursework from the comfort of their own homes. Students can access these services using the library’s online portal and can get help with a range of subjects, including math, science, and writing. The library’s online tutoring services are staffed by experienced tutors who can provide personalized support and feedback.

For example, a student who is struggling with a math concept can use the library's online tutoring services to get help from a tutor. The tutor can work with the student to explain the concept, provide examples, and offer feedback on the student's understanding.

Secret 10: Library Instruction Sessions

The Ames Library offers library instruction sessions that are designed to help students develop the skills they need to effectively use the library’s resources. These sessions cover topics such as database searching, citation management, and research strategies. Students can attend these sessions in person or online and can also access online resources and tutorials on the library’s website.

For instance, a student who is new to the library can attend a library instruction session to learn about the library's resources and services. The session will cover topics such as how to search the library's catalog, how to use the library's databases, and how to get help from the library's staff.