Zondervan Library offers many resources that can help students with quality research sources, personal writing assistance or a good place to study.
Databases, books, e-books and videos are all available for students who are researching at Zondervan. It is recommended by teachers that students use the databases to write a quality paper. No matter the class or topic, the databases will provide high quality peer reviewed information not available on Google.
“Google is not academic. Can it contain academic content? Yes, [but] it is not academic by nature,” Anissa Martin, student success librarian, said. “The design of Google is commercial, first of all. The idea that information is freely available is a misnomer.”
Most academic sources are hidden behind a paywall; however, Taylor provides that information through Zondervan’s many databases. In addition to the quality of the databases, they also allow students to skip the process of double and triple checking the accuracy of the information that they find.
“You couldn’t find a lot of the content that are hosted in the databases at Zondervan,” Mike Mendenhall, assistant professor of English and modern languages, said, “Students don't always understand that, and every time I say you need to use Zondervan resources only, probably two or three will say, ‘Is it okay to use Google?’ No, it's not OK. to use Google.”
To use the databases most efficiently, it is important that students understand how to use keywords effectively in their searches. The staff at Zondervan are happy to help answer any questions regarding keywords.
For students that have finished their work or need a break, board and card games are available on the first floor.
For writing assistance, students can also go to Zondervan for its Writing Center; highly trained students and staff can help them. Teachers across campus recommend using the Writing Center for peer review, answering any writing related questions and help with formatting. The students and staff are trained to answer low level research questions that students may have.
In addition to these services, the Writing Center can also help non-native speakers, assisting students with writing and other difficulties related to the English language.
If Zondervan does not have the source that a student is looking for, the staff at Zondervan can order it if asked. This assures that students get the information they need.
The Academic Enrichment Center (AEC) also provides students with a variety of services to help them succeed academically and holistically. They can assist students with any disability or chronic illness. Other forms of help by the AEC include academic skills, a peer tutor program and transitional support for first-year students.
If students have any technology related problems, they can find help at Zondervan’s help desk and information technology support.
The physical space of Zondervan provides students a place where they will be free from distractions. From tables in the library, to the available study rooms, Zondervan is always there to help students get through their longest hours of studying. Computers are also available for students to use on the first floor.
For any questions regarding Zondervan and the resources that it provides, the students and staff at Zondervan are happy to help at 8 a.m. – 12 a.m. Monday through Thursday and Saturday, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. Friday and Sunday 3 p.m. – 12 a.m. Outside of these hours, students may also study or do homework in the Geek Room, which is open all hours, day and night.
“We want to be the academic hub of the university, meaning our design, our whole purpose is for students,” Martin said, “We want you to be here. We want you to study here. You can bring in your coffee and your food and just [be] in the space, utilizing the space, and everyone's willing to help you.”
