Beyond books: A look at resources at the Frances Willson Thompson Library

Libraries have long been cornerstones of learning and community engagement, evolving from traditional repositories of books to multifaceted hubs offering diverse educational resources and services. Modern libraries are designed to cater to a wide range of needs, providing patrons with both a tranquil space to study and access to a wealth of knowledge and technology.

The Frances Willson Thompson Library at the University of Michigan-Flint exemplifies this evolution, offering a broad array of resources that extend well beyond books. It features group study rooms and quiet personal study pods that provide ideal environments for focused learning. Students seeking to hone their writing skills can access expert guidance at the Marian E. Wright Writing Center, while research librarians stand ready to assist with navigating online academic journals. Unique offerings, such as anatomical models, a seed library for aspiring botanists, and fine art from local institutions ensure that the library embodies a space where academic achievement and creative exploration go hand in hand.

Comfortable Study Spaces

There are many great places on campus to focus, but none match the silence and convenience of the library. The space is home to 10 study rooms which students can reserve in-person or online, as well as computer pods and a large atrium with a variety of study pods overlooking the Flint River. "A lot of students come looking for different types of study space," said Mickey Doyle, head of access services at the library. "We try to spend a lot of our time focusing on providing these spaces and services to students."

In the future, the library aims to improve these spaces by installing new furniture, increasing access to electrical outlets, and even purchasing additional quiet study pods, one of which students can visit right now. "The study pod has been used quite a bit," said Jennifer Dean, library director. "We joked, it almost looks like someone dropped a Tardis in the library if you're a 'Dr. Who' fan." In addition to these study rooms, the library also provides anatomical models and other physical study materials for students to borrow during their visit.

Educational Support Services

In addition to being a great place to study, the library also houses a variety of resources for students who need guided assistance with their classwork. In 1971, the Marian E. Wright Writing Center was established and moved to the library during the then-Classroom Office Building's repurposing. It now stands as the oldest writing center in Michigan and even has a secondary location, known as the "Rough Draft Cafe," located in the Flint Public Library, which supports the wider community.

Liz Svoboda is the instruction and outreach librarian and works with students both in and out of the classroom. "Instructors might request an introduction to the class, an orientation to the library, or a lesson in basic library database searching," Svoboda said. She also helps organize a variety of student outreach initiatives, such as featured book displays, which often relate to current events on campus and around the world, and a whiteboard, which allows students to share their thoughts with librarians in an engaging and quiet way.

"There have been a number of times I've had a senior level student come to me and say, 'I wish I had known about these resources sooner,'" said Svoboda. "We can't barge into every class and tell students about these resources, so I highly recommend students look out for information, and visit the library for help, no matter what project they are working on."

Each librarian specializes in a particular subject, and they are there to help students locate any material they might need to succeed in their classes and careers.  "We always tell students to call us if they hit a paywall or need resources because we can almost certainly get it for you for free," said Dean.

Online Resources

Students have access to hundreds of online databases with journals, articles, audiobooks, documentaries and more. These resources can be easily accessed by logging into a university account through various databases or through the quick search option on the library website. If a manual search is not enough, library staff are available to assist students with their search in various ways.

"Library resources can be complex, and we try to make them as usable as possible," said Dean. "It's a pretty big operation, and it's important that we work closely with faculty to help instruct students on how to access library materials, do research and think critically. People are looking to us for the resources and connections they need, and we want them to have a seamless experience when they visit."

Seed Library and More

Last year, the library introduced a brand new resource for students: a seed library. Here, students can trade and donate seeds for plants ranging from hot peppers to watermelons. Going forward, the library plans to host events showcasing this new resource and offer workshops that teach students how to start seeds in preparation for warmer weather. The seed library program is part of a tri-campus partnership with the Planet Blue Ambassador program.

Nearby, the library also has a rotating gallery of artwork from the Mott Warsh Collection showcasing fine art created by artists of the African diaspora. The gallery highlights the university's continued dedication to creating a diverse and inclusive environment for all students.

Students who wish to get the most out of their time at UM-Flint should take the time to look into all the unique resources the library offers for free. "We love to listen and hear new ideas from students," said Doyle. "We do hear a lot of positive feedback, but we don't always hear what students want. We want to know what we could be thinking of to make our services better for them."

"We are helpers by nature," Svoboda said. "That's why a lot of us come into the profession, it's because we want to help people, especially when they are looking for information that they need."

To learn more about the library and the resources it offers, visit its website.