By Chai Yee Xin
Running an academic library entails supporting the diverse academic and research needs of our community. From discovery systems, user-focused services to loans management, a pool of dedicated staff is required to keep every function running smoothly. However, the increasingly diverse needs of our community, as well as changes in learning technologies and expectations, has led to increased demand for library services from a modest pool of full-time staff.
To help manage this increased load, NUS Libraries has relied on student assistants. These assistants play an integral role in contributing to the smooth running of a library; at the same time, they gain valuable work experience – a win-win for everyone!
One of my greatest takeaways from being an SA at the Law Library is learning about the vast resources the university has to offer and having a greater appreciation for the work that goes on behind the scenes, in providing us these resources in a manner that is clear and accessible to all! The various inventory responsibilities that I have to undertake also made me a more meticulous and careful person, qualities that will come in important when I enter the workforce. – Aiko, Year 3
At the C J Koh Law Library, law students were tasked to answer queries at the Library Information Desk. The law librarians provided training in legal research which helped student assistants respond confidently to queries at the Information Desk. As an added plus, the training also made them more effective at their own research! Our libraries stand to benefit from this too – Law students were able to apply their legal knowledge to update Library guides on topics such as International Investment Law, Arbitration, and Islamic Law.
I’ve been working at the law library as a student assistant since Year 1 and the training has made me more acquainted with the workings of the library. I was able to use my knowledge to locate materials for research and study easily, which helped me a lot in my revision for various modules. – Kai Ting, Year 2
Beyond the Information Desk, students contributed to special projects at the Law Library. One standout project involved designing a creative book display to welcome prospective students to the Faculty of Law. Titled Journey to Legal Excellence: Your Guide to the Dean’s List, the display highlighted key textbooks for first year students across a variety of courses.
Apart from the convenience of being able to work part-time at your own school, being a library student assistant has enhanced my legal learning experience by helping me get familiarised with a wide array of legal databases. It was also very enriching to work with the library staff, who provide such an integral service to the school! – Snigdha, LLB (Hons)
With the help of our student assistants, we enhance their educational journey while improving the quality of our library services. This is truly a partnership that works for the betterment of our NUS Community!
