Academics & So Much More! Blog

Summer is here in full swing, and while we love the sunshine, the soaring temperatures can be a bit much! Whether you're walking to the library, biking around town, or just enjoying a good book on your porch, it's important to stay safe and cool during these hot months.
Here are a few friendly reminders from your local TCC Library:

🌡️ Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Bring a reusable water bottle with you when you visit. Staying hydrated helps you stay alert and comfortable—especially if you're planning to spend a few hours browsing or reading.

🧢 Dress for the Weather
Light, breathable clothing and a wide-brimmed hat can make a big difference. And don’t forget sunscreen if you’re walking or biking to the library!

📚 Cool Down with a Good Book
Our air-conditioned reading areas are the perfect escape from the heat. Whether you're into mysteries, memoirs, or middle-grade adventures, we’ve got something for everyone.

Summer is heating up, and so is the excitement at the Va Beach Public Library! Whether you're a fan of delicious food, dazzling magic, or whimsical balloon art, there's something for everyone in this season's Summer Events Series. Mark your calendars and bring your appetite—these events are not to be missed!

🍩 July 1 – July Jam

Kick off the month with a sweet and savory celebration!

• Glazed & Infuzed: 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM
  Start your morning with gourmet donuts and coffee.
• Shmitt Sandwiches: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
  Grab a hearty, handcrafted sandwich for lunch.

🎩 July 8 – John Kingry Magic

Prepare to be amazed by the incredible John Kingry and his magical performance!

• Glazed & Infuzed: 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM
• Shmitt Sandwiches: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM

🔥❄️ July 15 – Fire and Ice

Experience the thrill of opposites with the Fire and Ice event—expect surprises!

• Glazed & Infuzed: 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM
• Derpy Dogs: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
  Enjoy quirky and delicious hot dogs with a twist.

🎈 August 5 – Ryan the Balloon Guy

End the summer with laughter and creativity as Ryan the Balloon Guy brings his balloon artistry to life!

• Glazed & Infuzed: 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM
• Derpy Dogs: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM

🚫🔍 Why Google Isn’t Your Best Friend for Academic Research! 📚✨

Hey there, knowledge adventurers! 🧙‍♀️ Are you ready to level up your research game? While Google is great for cat videos and recipe hunting, it might not be your trusty sidekick for academic research. Let’s explore why it’s time to step away from the search bar and into the library! 🌟

🌐 The Google Mirage

Google can feel like a vast desert of information, but beware! Many of the “facts” you find may not be reliable. It’s like a treasure hunt where you might end up with fool’s gold! 🏴‍☠️ You need scholarly sources, not random blog posts or Wikipedia entries.  Ask yourself who can add and make changes on Google & Wikipedia?  

🧙‍♂️ Enter the Library: Your Research Wizard!

Your library is a magical realm filled with vetted, peer-reviewed resources! Here’s why it’s your best bet for serious research:

1. Credibility is Key: Academic journals and books are like enchanted scrolls—they’ve been reviewed and vetted by experts in the field. TCC Libraries offers you a way to evaluate sources in order to find the right resources for your assignment.  You won’t find that level of quality just scrolling through Google! 📜✨
2. Access to Databases: Your library grants you access to fantastic research databases like Academic Search Complete, JSTOR, and so much more. These are treasure troves of scholarly articles, books, and reports that you won’t find on a simple Google search. 🚪🔑
3. Narrow Your Focus: Libraries have specialized databases and research guides for every subject imaginable. Need articles on climate change? There’s a database for that! Want historical documents? They’ve got you covered! 🌎📖
4. Advanced Search Tools: While Google might overwhelm you with results, library databases have advanced search features that let you filter by subject, publication date, and more. It’s like having a magic map that leads you straight to the good stuff! 🗺️✨

🏰 Bonus: Help is Always Nearby!

Your librarians are likewise wizards ready to assist you whether in-person or online, you can reach out to a TCC Librarian through Ask a Librarian! Whether you need help with citations, finding specific sources, or navigating databases, they’ve got your back. Don’t hesitate to ask for help! 🧙‍♂️📞

**Some information in this post was inspired by ChatGPT.**

Hello, students and scholars! As you dive into your research projects, it’s crucial to have the right tools at your fingertips. One such tool is Academic Search Complete—a powerful database that can elevate your research game! Let’s explore what it is, how to use it, and why it should be your go-to resource for academic inquiries.

🌟 What is Academic Search Complete?

Academic Search Complete is a comprehensive multidisciplinary database that can be used for any subject you are studying and can provide access to scholarly journals, magazines, and other academic resources. This database is designed to be used for any discipline or program of study.  You can locate Academic Search Complete on the A to Z Database List.  

🔍 Why Use Academic Search Complete?

1. Extensive Coverage: With millions of articles available, Academic Search Complete covers a wide range of subjects, making it suitable for nearly any research topic you might encounter.
2. Peer-Reviewed Sources: The database primarily includes peer-reviewed journals, ensuring that the information you’re accessing is credible and reliable—perfect for academic work!
3. Advanced Search Options: Use advanced search features to refine your results. Filter by publication date, source type, and more to find exactly what you need quickly.

Happy researching, and may you uncover a wealth of knowledge along the way! 📚✨Please be sure to reach out to your local TCC Librarian if you need help whether in-person or online through Ask a Librarian.  

**Some information in this post was inspired by ChatGPT.**

Did you know that TCC Libraries offer free access to a wide range of movies, documentaries, and educational videos? Whether you're looking to unwind with a classic film or dive into a thought-provoking documentary, our collection has something for everyone.

Check out these media collection: Swank, Kanopy, and Films On Demand  to discover your next favorite film or documentary!

Stop by the Va Beach Joint-Use Library this summer and check out our new “From Screen to Shelf” display—featuring books, scripts, and behind-the-scenes reads inspired by popular movies, TV shows, and plays!

Love Bridgerton? Curious about the real history behind Oppenheimer? Obsessed with Euphoria or Hamilton? We’ve got something for you.

📌 Add your favorite to the wall!
We want to know what you’re watching or rewatching. Post your favorite title and why you love it—then see what your fellow students are into!

Come get inspired, discover something new, and maybe even find your next binge-worthy read!

Check out some resources that your TCC Libraries has to offer!  

With the busy pace of the semester, it’s easy to overlook some of the valuable resources your TCC Libraries offers. Here’s a quick rundown of library services that could make your academic life easier—whether you're wrapping up the semester or preparing for the next one:

1. Research Consultations – Schedule a one-on-one with a librarian for personalized research help.
2. Interlibrary Loans – Borrow materials from other libraries to get the resources you need.  TCC Libraries can get most articles within 24 hours. 
3. Citation help – Simplify your research organization with tools from our Citation Research Guide.

As a new semester begins, let's explore ways to be successful on your quest for research and knowledge:

1. Learn what’s available to you through TCC Libraries & Tutoring.
2. Browse our TCC Libraries website and discover all the amazing resources waiting for you.
3. Dive into Databases: Start searching for quality, peer-reviewed articles that will enhance your research.
4. Explore our Research Guides:  With these subject-oriented research guides, we have pulled the resources that can aid you in your classes. 
5. Discover  options for Tutoring & Writing Center assistance. 
6. Embrace Originality: Use the knowledge you gain to craft your unique academic narrative!

So, next time you think about Googling for your research, remember the library is your true ally in the quest for knowledge! Happy researching and good luck with your quest--should you choose to accept it :) ! 📚✨

**Some information in this post was inspired by ChatGPT.**

Our workshops are designed to help you succeed academically, creatively, and professionally.  Check out our free workshops and events from TCC libraries and tutoring that can help your throughout your academic career and beyond! 

From May 23^rd to June 28^th, the Joint-Use Library on the Virginia Beach Campus will house the “Americans and the Holocaust” exhibition. In partnership with the Virginia Beach Public Library, American Library Association and the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, this 1,100-square-foot exhibition explores how American society responded to Nazism, war, and the Holocaust during the 1930s and 1940s.

Drawing on a rich collection of primary sources, it challenges the widely held belief that Americans knew little and did nothing in response to the Holocaust as it unfolded. Visitors are invited to experience the exhibition and reflect on critical questions: What did Americans know? and What more could have been done?

For more information, including additional programming and events from the Virginia Beach Public Library, please visit: https://libraries.virginiabeach.gov/programs-events/aath 

*Note: Text of this blog post is a condensed re-post of the original marketing news release authored by VBPL.