Five reasons the library is your best friend

There are many tips for college students looking for an extra edge on their classes, but one is better than the rest. Luckily for you it's free, close to home and easy to use. If you're in need of a little academic advantage or scholarly superiority, walk or bike no further than your campus library.

The most essential part of any institution of higher learning, apart from the classroom, is the library. Want to know why it's the best college friend you will ever have? Just consider than these five reasons.

1. It doesn't play awful dubstep at 1 a.m. Libraries are quiet. In this digital age where stores of criticism and academic journals are stored in online databases, the silence of libraries may outweigh the importance of loaning books. When you need a calm and still place to go finish a paper, this is it.

2. It always lets you borrow that book you really need for class. Libraries have one obvious function, to lend you books. You'll find any books required for your classes in the stacks or stored on special shelves. On the rare occasion when you can't take a book home with you (limited copies perhaps and a class text), the library will let you reserve time with it. Don't forget to take advantage of online and print newspaper subscriptions either!

3. It won't bail on you after you've made plans. Check your library's hours online. That's what they are. They don't close suddenly because there's somewhere better to be. You and your library are always on the same schedule.

4. It's there to talk when you need it to listen. Library staff are there to help you. Ask them for anything - help with the printer, advice about a search function, where you might find the collected works of the most insignificant and esoteric 18th century physician, if they can get a book on loan from another school library or even if they'll purchase a film or essential volume for you.

5. They have an awesome movie collection. Speaking of films, don't forget that libraries are great for non-studious activity. When Netflix comes up short, pop by the library and browse the excellent and extensive collection of classic films and television series.

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