Back to School: Get to Know the Fulton Library

A new semester means new classes, new goals, and a fresh opportunity to set yourself up for success. And no matter where you are on your educational journey, the Fulton Library is in your corner.

The library is a full-service academic hub designed to help you research smarter, study better, and succeed from day one. In addition to books, we’ve got study spaces, research support, technology, and resources designed to help you thrive throughout the semester.

Not sure where to begin? Here are five simple ways to get started and make the most of everything the library has to offer.

Student with a laptop at the library.Your Fulton Library Quick-Start Checklist

1.     Find a Study Space That Works for You

Every student studies differently. Some need complete silence, while others prefer collaborative spaces where they can work with classmates. The Fulton Library offers a variety of environments to fit your needs. Study rooms require reservations, but the study pods are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

TO DO:

    • Tour the Fulton Library
      We offer a 15-minute, self-guided tour that begins at the first-floor Research Help Desk and ends at the first-floor Circulation Desk where you can collect a prize for participating.
    • Bookmark the Library’s Website
      Take a few minutes to browse the pages and get comfortable on the website. A couple of pages to note:

QUICK TIP: Familiarize yourself with library hours  early on so you can make the most of the spaces, services, and support throughout the semester.

 

2.     Meet Your Subject Librarian

Did you know the Fulton Library has experts assigned to specific academic disciplines?

Subject librarians specialize in areas such as business, health sciences, education, engineering, humanities, and more. They're information experts trained to help students locate credible sources, refine research topics, navigate databases, and develop effective search strategies. Whether you're struggling to find scholarly articles or just want help narrowing your topic, librarians can often get you on the right path and are there to support you along the way.

TO DO:

QUICK TIP: Don't wait until the night before a paper is due to reach out. Connecting with a librarian early can save you hours of frustration later.

 

3.     Visit the Library's Interactive Research Tutorial

Research can feel extremely overwhelming. Fortunately, the library has your back.

The Fulton Library has developed an award-winning interactive tutorial that breaks the research process into manageable steps. It walks students through the complete process from assignment to finished project and helps them feel confident in their research and report.

TO DO:

QUICK TIP: Explore the tutorial before your first major research assignment so you'll know exactly where to go when you need help.

 

4.     Explore What You Can Borrow

The library's collection goes far beyond books. You can check out technology, equipment, and everyday essentials that make academic life easier.

TO DO:

    • Browse the Equipment Checkout Page
      The Fulton Library has everything from laptops and phone chargers to cameras, projectors, and audio equipment that can help with a presentation.

QUICK TIP: Knowing what's available before you need it can be a lifesaver during a busy semester.

 

5.     Discover Free Access to Academic Resources

As a UVU student, you have access to an extensive collection of scholarly resources at no additional cost. The library’s collection includes thousands of academic databases, peer-reviewed journals, and e-books to support your coursework and research.

TO DO:

    • Log in to a Database
      Search by title, subject or type, and chat with a librarian if you need assistance finding something specific.

QUICK TIP: Before paying for an article online, check the library's databases first. There's a good chance you already have access.

Your First-Week Library Checklist

The Fulton Library is one of UVU's most valuable student resources. And if you ever have a question or aren’t sure what your next step should be, ASK! Library employees are ready and eager to support you along your journey at UVU.

Before classes get too busy, take a few minutes to:

Taking these simple steps at the start of the semester can help you save time, reduce stress, and make the most of the support available to you all year long.