The summer 2018 semester is upon us, and the University of Houston Libraries has the resources and services you need for success in academics and research. Our Top 10 Things to Do at UH Libraries – Summer Edition is a quick guide to get you started on a great semester.

10. Get research help.
Stuck on a research project? Need writing or presentation advice? Contact your friendly and knowledgeable subject librarian for personalized research help. Subject librarians are the ultimate search engine!

BONUS: Research Guides are your online source for all things research-related. Each guide gives you subject-specific research tools and methods to help you ace your assignment.

9. Study and collaborate.
We have over 117,000 square feet of study space. You’ll find a variety of environments to suit your needs, from study hives to silent zones to tech-ready group work areas.

BONUS: Need to practice a presentation with your team? Reserve a group study room online, or request a key in person at the MD Anderson Library Service Desk.

8. Power up your productivity.
The MD Anderson Library is home to three large computing labs located on the first floor, with Windows workstations for research and study needs, and specialized multimedia and data analysis resources on both PC and Mac. Print, copy and scan services are also available.

BONUS: Left your laptop at home? Check out a laptop from the Service Desk.

7. Take a break.
In addition to workspace, the Libraries has areas for you to recharge between classes. Visit the Leisure Reading collection, located on the first floor of MD Anderson Library, and relax with a variety of newer titles in fiction and nonfiction, audiobooks, magazines, and more. Browse the collection online.

6. Create a media masterpiece.
The Hamill Foundation Multimedia Studio, located in the Learning Commons, features audio recording booths and professional-grade equipment to help you create high-quality productions.

BONUS: Check out DSLRs, GoPros, mics, tripods, and more from the Learning Commons.

5. Dive into a database (or two).
Did you know that UH Libraries provides access to over 500 research databases? These databases are available for free to all UH students, staff and faculty. Use of databases can improve the quality of your papers and save you time. Popular databases include Academic Search Complete, JSTOR, and PubMed.

BONUS: Off-campus access to this and other electronic resources, including e-books, journal articles, and audio files, is available with your CougarNet log-in.

4. Build a robot.
The department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and the MD Anderson Library have partnered to offer an exciting new Makerspace, located on the first floor of the MD Anderson Library within the Learning Commons. The Makerspace offers a specially equipped space, tools, and support for building objects and electrical devices. All students on the UH campus, regardless of college or department, are encouraged to explore the space and all that it offers.

3. Branch out.
UH Libraries comprises not only the MD Anderson Library, but also three branch libraries: the Architecture and Art Library, the Music Library and the Health Sciences Library. You’ll find more subject experts and specialized collections at these locations.

2. Visit Special Collections.
Open to all, Special Collections organizes, preserves and promotes rare archival items, including books, manuscripts, photographs and other ephemera. Find unique materials in the Hispanic Research Collection, Houston & Texas History Research Collection, Energy & Sustainability Research Collection, and more, made available for access in the Special Collections Reading Room.

BONUS: Special Collections hosts curated exhibits in the MD Anderson Library, featuring a variety of engaging and enriching subjects.

DOUBLE BONUS: Browse the UH Digital Library for access to rare historical and contemporary items in digital format.

1. Attend tech training.
We offer free technology training to all UH students, staff and faculty. Beginning, intermediate and advanced sessions in popular programs, like Excel, PowerPoint, Photoshop, InDesign, and many more, are held morning, afternoon and evening to fit your busy schedule. Sessions are instructor-led, with practical, personalized lessons.