I wish I knew that…….
Starting uni comes with a steep learning curve—new campuses, new systems and new expectations, all at once.
The Library is one of the easiest ways to set yourself up for success, but many students don’t realise how much support is on offer until they’re already feeling the pressure.
That’s why we asked experienced students: what do you wish you’d known when you first started uni?
Here are their top tips:
“…that the library was open 24/7.”
Night owl? Early riser? Deadline panic at midnight? The entry levels of our Nathan and Gold Coast libraries are open 24/7, so you can study to your own schedule. As one student put it, “This is how a library should be run — access 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.”
“…that I could get help with my assignments.”
Stuck finding research? Unsure how to structure your writing? Not confident with referencing? You can meet with our specialist support staff for personalised help. Simply use the help form to request a consultation whenever you need one. Students consistently tell us our staff go the extra mile — from sorting out tricky referencing problems to explaining assessment concepts clearly and patiently talking through the “why,” not just the “what”.
“…that there were free workshops to help me get ahead.”
Not sure how to search academic databases or build a solid search string? Our library workshops run throughout the year and cover everything from using library resources efficiently to navigating uni life more broadly. One student told us, “I loved the presentation, especially the content around search engines, databases and search strings.” Another said they wished they’d known about it “way back”—so don’t wait until the final year to check them out.
“…that there were study spaces designed for all my needs.’’
Prefer absolute silence? Need a collaborative space? Want a room with a whiteboard to plan things out? Our libraries have dedicated study spaces to suit all your needs—from silent zones and quiet areas for focused work, through to social spaces and bookable group rooms. Students describe our libraries as “an amazing social and study space that’s a pleasure to attend and use,” with great lighting, free wifi and a genuinely good learning atmosphere.
“…that all my required readings were available online.’’
Can’t find your readings? Searching random websites? Unsure if you need to buy a textbook? Your Reading lists gather all required and recommended readings in one spot, with close to 100 per cent available online.
“…that you could borrow laptops.’’
Forgot your device? Battery died? All the computers taken? Visit the library desk with your ID card and grab a free loan laptop for up to 24 hours. Problem solved!
“…I can request interlibrary loans.’’
It’s true! If we don’t have an article or book in our collection that you’d love to read, you can request an interlibrary loan from another library. For free!
And that’s just the start…
There’s a whole world of support waiting for you. From workshops to welcoming staff, adaptable services to modern study spaces, your library is designed to make uni feel less overwhelming from day one.
Any questions? Contact the library anytime — we’re here to help!
