By Ray Sharma
Although SFU's libraries have closed their doors in response to recent physical distancing measures, their services remain active and accessible online, and staff members like Ruth Silverman continue to offer webinars and virtual services such as AskAway and WriteAway.
"Our buildings may be closed for now, but the library and our collections and services are still very much open," says Gwen Bird, dean of libraries. "Our chat-reference and virtual writing-help services have seen huge spikes in usage, and use of electronic collections has been strong."
Through the online library catalogue, students have access to thousands of online journals, eBooks and databases. As well, library staff are available by phone, online consultation or through virtual services to offer help with research, writing and learning skills.
In March, for example, Silverman, a learning services coordinator at the WAC Bennett Library, delivered a webinar on Managing Procrastination in the context of the COVID-19 crisis.
"Procrastination is fueled by anxiety and I realized that both would be exacerbated by current conditions," she says.
"I thought the most useful information I could offer students was about how to deal with the emotional, cognitive and academic impacts of the pandemic. I wanted to encourage them to manage expectations of themselves, and to offer strategies to help them be as productive as they can be."
The webinar saw enthusiastic audience participation from more than a dozen students who welcomed the opportunity to connect and receive information related to what they were experiencing.
The library wants students to know they aren't alone. Staff are available and ready to help. Learn more about the available services at: https://www.lib.sfu.ca/about/covid-19.
