The Mervyn H. Sterne Library, located at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), is a premier research institution that offers a wide range of resources and services to support the academic and research needs of its students, faculty, and staff. With a vast collection of over 1.4 million volumes, 40,000 journals, and 300 databases, the library is an indispensable hub for scholarship and intellectual exploration.
Research Support Services
The Mervyn H. Sterne Library provides an array of research support services designed to help users navigate the complex landscape of academic research. From literature reviews to data management, the library’s expert staff offers guidance and consultation to ensure that researchers have access to the tools and resources they need to succeed. Additionally, the library’s interlibrary loan service enables users to borrow materials from other libraries, expanding their access to a vast network of academic resources.
Information Literacy and Instruction
The library’s information literacy program is a key component of its research support services. Through workshops, tutorials, and one-on-one instruction, library staff teach students the skills they need to effectively locate, evaluate, and use information. This program is designed to promote critical thinking and information literacy, empowering students to become independent learners and researchers. The library also offers subject-specific research guides to help students navigate the complexities of academic research in their chosen field.
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| Online Catalog | A comprehensive database of the library's holdings, including books, journals, and digital resources |
| Database A-Z List | A list of over 300 databases, including academic journals, e-books, and primary sources |
| Research Guides | Subject-specific guides to help students navigate the research process and locate relevant resources |
Collaborative Learning Spaces
The library’s collaborative learning spaces are designed to facilitate teamwork, creativity, and innovation. From group study rooms to media production studios, these spaces offer a range of tools and technologies to support student success. The library’s makerspace, for example, provides access to 3D printing, virtual reality, and other emerging technologies, enabling students to bring their ideas to life.
Special Collections and Archives
The Mervyn H. Sterne Library is home to a number of special collections and archives, including the UAB Archives, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute Archives, and the Southern History Collection. These collections offer a unique window into the region’s history and culture, providing researchers with access to rare and unique materials. The library’s digital collections also make it possible for researchers to access these materials from anywhere in the world.
In addition to its physical collections, the library also offers a range of digital scholarship services, including digital humanities and digital pedagogy support. These services enable faculty and students to create and share digital content, from online exhibitions to digital editions of scholarly works.
What research support services does the Mervyn H. Sterne Library offer?
+The Mervyn H. Sterne Library offers a range of research support services, including literature reviews, data management, and interlibrary loan. The library’s expert staff also provides guidance and consultation to help researchers navigate the complex landscape of academic research.
How can I access the library’s digital collections?
+The library’s digital collections can be accessed through the library’s website. Users can search the online catalog or browse the library’s digital collections, which include e-books, academic journals, and primary sources.
What types of collaborative learning spaces are available at the library?
+The library offers a range of collaborative learning spaces, including group study rooms, media production studios, and a makerspace. These spaces are designed to facilitate teamwork, creativity, and innovation, and offer a range of tools and technologies to support student success.
