HARLINGEN — September is Library Card Sign-Up Month, an opportunity for libraries to educate lifelong learners about the value of library cards.
At Texas State Technical College, a student ID functions as a library card. This enables students to gain access to many of the educational resources at TSTC’s Learning Resource Center.
Julio Solis, of Edinburg, is pursuing an Associate of Applied Science degree in Biomedical Equipment Technology at TSTC.
Solis said he recently used the campus library for the first time.
“My brother-in-law suggested using the library if I had classes all day,” he said. “He frequently studied there because it was accessible.”
Luz Mejia, of Brownsville, is studying for an Associate of Applied Science degree in Nursing at TSTC.
Mejia said she likes the multiple resources available at the Learning Resource Center.
“There is easy access to computers and to print out documents,” Mejia said. “The study rooms also have unlimited time frames. I recommend that students use the library because the staff is excellent with their customer service.”
Nancy Hendricks, TSTC’s Learning Resource Center director, said the library staff makes it easy for students to find what they need.
“The resources available consist of computers, virtual reality equipment, books, games and DVDs,” Hendricks said. “The library has 79 databases and offers services for in-person reference help and for online and hybrid students. There is also access to e-books, help guides, library guides, streaming video, and much more.”
Hendricks added that the Learning Resource Center’s peaceful atmosphere is conducive to study and concentration.
“There are two meeting rooms, a lobby area, study tables and study rooms,” she said.
Luis Gonzalez, a TSTC library clerk, said the library staff can demonstrate how to navigate the college’s online databases.
“The students are shown guides to research papers, including formats and citations,” Gonzalez said. “Other services are technical, such as how to print, how to use word processing and spreadsheets, and how to sign a PDF form. We also demonstrate how to scan materials and how to use a copy machine and a fax machine.”
The Learning Resource Center at TSTC’s Harlingen campus is located by the student quad, and the hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., except holidays.
Tutoring services are available to TSTC students Monday through Friday on the second floor of the Learning Resource Center by contacting 956-364-4109.
For more information about TSTC, visit tstc.edu.
