The Dick Smith Library, the center of the Tarleton Community.

By Yeidi Rios

Part I

Maybe this year you decided it would be different and that you would visit the library more often? Or maybe you’re a freshmen and you just need access to a computer or a quiet place to study? Whatever the reason you decide to become a familiar face at the library, and whether you’re a Tarleton student, faculty or staff, you’re in luck! My goal with this series of posts is to provide knowledge and familiarity with what can be the greatest resource in someone’s learning journey. The library is that special place in campus were you can visit and learn comfortably in the company of others, where you don’t need to feel alone with your digital problems- the library is filled with professional personnel to help you overcome your digital obstacles. I’m proud to say the library has gone through many changes and upgrades to provide the best learning experience we can possibly provide, and our willingness to constantly adapt to our community’s needs will not stop.

The Dick Smith Library consists of three floors.  First, let’s start with the main level. As you enter the library, behind the crystal windows, you will find a cozy lounging area situated around a TV and wall shelves that display our newest books. Past circulation and the café we have our computer stations, and if they are all taken we have a laptop vending machine that lends laptops for up to 4 hours. If you are in need of group study areas with computers, we have 5 study booths surrounding big computer monitors. These are not the only ones. Near the Tech Spot, we have two more study rooms equipped with computers and big screen monitors.  In addition to all this, located at the back of the library in the periodicals section, you’ll find microfilm machinery and 2 desktops exclusively for use with the microfilm. For those students who need technical or digital support remember that you can go by the Tech Spot open Monday through Friday from 8-8 pm. Last but not least, if you find your mobile device low on battery we have solutions for that as well.  Near the Tech Spot you will find a charging station equipped with chargers for different mobile devices. If you have any questions regarding the services we provide, doubts on the basic use of computers or software, or simply need help finding information, visit the reference desk- it is always open. 

For my next blog post I will be discussing the lower level and all the neat technology and spaces located down there. If you let it, the Dick Smith library will be your greatest support in your pursuit of knowledge and personal growth, so until next time, we hope to see you in the library!