The Library and Learning Commons aims to be a vital partner to support learning and research across campus.
Over the past year, the Library has played a pivotal role in advancing Langara College's research initiatives by spearheading the development of the Langara Research Data Management (RDM) Strategy. Responsibilities included conducting the Langara Research Data Survey, a comprehensive analysis of researchers' data needs, and subsequently disseminating and analyzing the survey results. To ensure the strategy's alignment with diverse academic perspectives, extensive consultations with faculty researchers, as well as collaboration with key RDM stakeholders such as IT, Research Ethics Board (REB), Institutional Research, and others, were integral to the development of the strategy.
Beyond Langara, the Library took on a leadership role by initiating and chairing the BC Small Post-Secondary Institutions RDM group, fostering collaboration among institutions. Additionally, librarian Maddy Walter represented Langara at the national level by participating as a panelist in two significant events—one hosted by the Digital Research Alliance and the other by the Canadian Association of Colleges and Institutes (CICAN). Looking ahead, active involvement in planning for province-wide data repository options for smaller institutions is underway, ensuring a sustainable and collaborative approach to research data management across British Columbia.
Throughout September 2022, students participated in a Library Scavenger Hunt to learn more about library services for a chance to win a gift card.
The Library celebrated Science Literacy Week in September 2022 with a Pi sticker craft and a Science "Mysteracy" Contest.
Library staff celebrate Halloween in October 2022.
The Library is for everyone! The Library celebrated Trans Awareness Week with a button making station on November 16-17, 2022. The Library also had a Pride button station available on June 7-8, 2022.
Library staff members were decked out in pink to combat by bullying on Pink Shirt Day in February 2023.
Button-making and colouring are always popular activities at the Long Night Against Procrastination.
Gary and Rob from the Library select prize winners at the Long Night Against Procrastination.
A new feature of De-Stress Fest this year was a pottery station.
The Library welcomed the Langara RMT students to the Library to provide relaxation massages to students during exams (August 2022).
The colouring lounge is always a great spot to unwind during De-Stress Fest (April 2023).
Students take a break to play some Jenga at De-Stress Fest in April 2023.
The Long Night Against Procrastination (LNAP) remains a highly anticipated event on campus. Collaborating with Student Engagement and Mental Health Initiatives, the Library and Learning Commons organizes one LNAP per semester. This event offers a diverse range of activities aimed at supporting students in their assignments, enhancing study skills, providing relaxation and rejuvenation, and preparing them for upcoming exams.
During recent LNAPs, students enjoyed snacks, received chair massages from Langara RMT students, participated in prize draws, and engaged in various other fun and relaxing activities. Additionally, writing tutors, librarians, and peer leaders were available to assist students with their study skills and writing assignments. Over 140 students “checked in” to the March 2023 LNAP.
The Library continues to host its ever-popular De-Stress Fest in collaboration with departments across campus. During exam time, the Library transforms its space into a fun and relaxing environment for students to unwind and have some fun while they cram for their final exams. This year the Library hosted events such as an origami and colouring lounges, re-fuel stations with coffee and treats, a movie matinee, and the Library Living Room, which had puzzles, games, and snacks for students to enjoy. The Library also supported students not on campus by curating some of the best online resources from the library collection and around Langara to help students stay calm, healthy and ready for success.