You Said We Did

We added three new ways to search for resources.
LibKey - which works in the background while you search and helps you to select the best full-text article option, or sends you to our Get It For Me service.
BrowZine - which acts as a virtual newsstand and allows users to browse and read scholarly eJournals from multiple platforms and publishers in one place.
Summon AI Research Assistant - which is available through Library Search and uses AI to summarize search results and highlight the most relevant sources.

We changed the date and time of PG Tips to occur on either Tuesday or Thursday each week, allowing for a more flexible schedule that allows more postgraduates to join this free social networking event.

We updated the sidebar of Library Search to include links to helpful videos, subject support guides, where the classmarks are located in the Library, and to our Get It For Me Service. We're also investing in better searching software for the ease of everyone.

We have integrated a vast majority of our databases into Library Search so that recommended databases will now appear at the top of the page when you're searching for items.

We added Open Access to the refinement criteria in Library Search so you can search for just Open Access articles. We also added the Open Access padlock icon to the catalogue entry so that you can quickly spot if an article is Open Access or not.

We upgraded the assistive technology area on the first floor with new assistive software. We also introduced a new assistive technology space on the 2nd Floor extension, featuring height-adjustable desks and specialised software in a quiet setting to support diverse needs.

We’ve enhanced accessible spaces across all five floors of the library. We refurbished and repainted these areas to create a more welcoming atmosphere, introduced new height-adjustable desks, and upgraded IT equipment for improved access. Additionally, we installed sensory equipment, such as sensory lamps, to enhance comfort. A new accessible room and a bookable online meeting room will be coming soon to the 2nd floor extension!

We created a sensory study room on the 2nd Floor extension of the Main Library, designed for a calm and focused environment. This refurbished space features new furniture, including height-adjustable desks and all-in-one desktops. We’ve also added comfortable seating options and ergonomic pods to support individual learning.

We created a variety of workshops which provide a range of training for University staff and students to enhance their research practice. We also introduced bespoke research training options. Our Researcher Training workshops are a mix of online workshops and hybrid workshops and are open to all staff and students at Warwick.

We’re introducing Accessible Study Room 256 in Term 1. This additional space will increase availability and provide more options for our customers.

We’ve updated the arrival time policy to a 15-minute window. If someone doesn’t arrive within their allotted time, the booking will automatically become available for other students. This change helps reduce frustration caused by unused bookings and ensures fairer access for everyone.

Clocks have been installed in each Accessible Study Room to help users manage their time more effectively.

• Increased visibility through targeted posts and campaigns on social media.
• Updated information about Accessible Study Rooms on The Library website.
• Planned Term 1 events dedicated to raising awareness of The Library’s accessible services.
• Created an Accessible Library Handbook, available both at The Library Helpdesk and online via the Accessible Library homepage. This outlines where various accessible spaces are and how to access them.
• Produced step-by-step ‘point of view’ videos showing how to find and access each room, soon to be available on The Library’s Accessibility webpages.

Created a section within the Accessible Library Handbook with demonstrates with images how to use the lighting.

• The Accessible Library Handbook includes a step-by-step guide on how to adjust the height-adjustable desks, complete with images for clarity and ease of use.
• Additionally, all items connected to the plug sockets are now clearly labelled, making them easy to identify if they are unplugged or need to be moved.

• In Term 1, The Library will be hosting a series of Assistive Software and Technology Workshops. These sessions will give attendees the opportunity to explore the tools available, ask questions, watch live demonstrations, and take away practical resources to support their use of assistive technology.
• Awareness will also be promoted through scheduled social media posts throughout the term, helping to reach a wider audience.
• The Library Accessibility Specialist works closely with Disability and Wellbeing Services to ensure students are informed about the support available. They also attend the Disabled Student Champion Networks to share updates and highlight what The Library offers.
• To provide more tailored support, we have introduced a 30-minute one-to-one booking service with the Library Accessibility Specialist. These sessions can be used to discuss accessibility needs and explore assistive software in more detail.
• Finally, we are updating the Productivity Tools webpages to feature a range of current, user-friendly, and free/freemium software options, making them accessible to as many individuals as possible.

• Over the summer, we updated all PCs in the Accessible Study Rooms and within the Assistive Technology Areas with a range of assistive software. While the software may vary between rooms and PCs, a full breakdown is clearly listed on The Library’s Accessibility webpages.
• To make navigation easier, we have also created floor maps for the Assistive Technology Areas. These maps highlight which PCs have which software, helping users choose the most suitable workspace for their needs.
• In addition, we have installed more Priority Seating stickers in Accessible Areas across The Library, ensuring that spaces remain available for those who need them most.