UTS Library

UTS Library has not suffered the fate of other university libraries (having some of their collection destroyed) — but that doesn’t mean it couldn’t happen here. One way to guard against this is to borrow, borrow, borrow. They won’t throw anything out that has been borrowed in the past X number of years. If you’re a student here, go nuts, borrow like a mad thing.
I’m a post-​grad, so I probably get a better deal at this library than most.
— 50 books out at a time, and for 12 month loans.
— One-​on-​one research assistance from librarians, some of whom go completely out of their way to find things for you.
— Inter-​library loans and loads of «Bonus» books (that’s another form of interlibrary loan, btw).
— a special «scholar’s room», where we can go be scholarly… I don’t actually like the room, it’s cold and uninviting. Anyway, who am I to complain?
So if you’re a post-​grad, and wondering what this library is like: you will be well looked after here.
I can’t speak for the undergraduate experience, except to say that this library has rather new facilities. It’s clean, and a little bit hard to find things on shelves (some of the signage could be better). There seem to be a lot of places to sit and work — but that said, during exam time, the library sure fills up. If you’re not on-​site, you can chat online to librarians (during working hours) and they answer your research queries on the spot.
I like this library’s collection: they have loads of bizarre old government and industry reports from the 1960s & 70 (a result of them merging with the technical school & stealing some of its collection).
UTS library does have a security entry, but that doesn’t mean the public can’t use the space. You just have to get a temporary access card from the security guard, and in exchange he’ll hold your ID until you leave. It’s pretty easy.
They are doing renovations on the bathrooms right now, and from what I’ve seen, the new loos have all the mod cons. Last year they had a nice drive: food for fines. Instead of paying fines, you could pay with non-​perishable food items, which they donated to families in need, over christmas time.

Although regrettably UTS only has the one library, it is a popular place for the general public, UTS students of course, and the visiting uni or high school student. When I walk in I give a wave to Elvis the security guard (we’ve become acquainted over countless lost property items of mine) if I get the chance to see him and head on up to level 5 (the hush zone) for some dedicated study time. So what if ‘dedicated study’ only happens on rare occasions; if I have to, UTS library can be a productive place. Level 3 is popular for the group meetings and assignments, but not quality study time. Avoid the awkward lift music if possible (sounds like something out of love song dedications) and get some exercise walking up the winding staircase.
They also have computer rooms and general access computers (you need a student ID to access these), media stations (to watch DVDs and VHS if necessary) and of course, rows and rows of books, journals and law journals. The check out system is handy, and they have ongoing workshops if you have trouble using the library systems, referencing and all that jazz.

The UTS library is state of the art and has multiple floors. The areas are very expansive and many students spend hours studying in the library with its relaxed atmosphere and resourceful setting. The range of books is fascinating– every faculty has a wide range of textbooks available for students to borrow. Novels and books on off-​topic subjects are also available to read.
Staff are very friendly– too often have I had library fines. Instead of scolding me, they told me how to get out of them! All the staff are very knowledgeable and are only too happy to help. Never have I had a grumpy librarian assist me in my search for a book or information. They are also quite good on the internet and computer.
There are many tables and chairs. While the library has a lot of computers, there never seems to be enough. More power plugs would be appreciated!