Academics & So Much More! Blog

Can you complete this Halloween bingo sheet! TCC Libraries have you covered for books and movies in our Film Research Guide! Curl up with a great book or movie! Check out our spooky reads/watch list too! 

Hey there, savvy scholars! Midterms or mid-semester is just around the corner, and while that might send a shiver down your spine, fear not! TCC Libraries are here to help you navigate this tricky time with some fun, stress-busting strategies. Let’s make studying a little less daunting and a lot more enjoyable!

As you study, celebrate your achievements, big or small! Finished a chapter? Treat yourself! Completed a practice test? High-five your study buddy! These little celebrations can help keep your spirits high and motivation strong.

Midterms may be challenging, but with a little creativity and fun, you can tackle them like a pro! Remember, the library is your ally, full of resources and a supportive community ready to cheer you on. So, gear up, enjoy the process, and make some great memories along the way.

1. Create Your Ultimate Study Playlist

Who says studying has to be boring? Curate an upbeat playlist to keep your energy levels high while you hit the books. Whether you prefer lo-fi beats, classic rock, or catchy pop tunes, a good soundtrack can make all the difference. Let’s jam to some great music and bonus points for dancing it out during breaks!

2. Turn Studying into a Game

Make studying a bit more exciting by turning it into a game! Use flashcards for quick quizzes, set timers for mini study sprints, or challenge a friend to see who can recall the most facts in a minute. Reward yourselves with snacks or fun breaks for every milestone you reach!

3. Find Your Perfect Study Spot

The library is full of unique spaces, so why not explore? From cozy reading nooks to lively group study areas, finding the right environment can help you focus. Bring a comfy blanket or your favorite mug for some extra comfort. Don’t forget to take some fun selfies in your favorite spots!

4. Snack Smart, Snack Happy

Fuel your brain with healthy snacks that also bring a smile! Think trail mix, fruit, or even some popcorn for a light crunch. Treat yourself to a little indulgence—maybe a cookie or two—because studying hard deserves some delicious rewards!

5. Take Mini Breaks with a Twist

Instead of just scrolling through your phone during breaks, try something refreshing! Do a quick stretch, take a stroll around the library, or grab a friend for a short dance party in the study area. Movement boosts your mood and keeps your energy up!

6. Mindfulness Moments

When the stress feels overwhelming, take a moment to breathe. Find a quiet corner in the library, close your eyes, and focus on your breathing for a few minutes. You could also try a short guided meditation available through library resources or apps. It’s a great way to reset and recharge!

7. Celebrate Your Progress

As you study, celebrate your achievements, big or small! Finished a chapter? Treat yourself! Completed a practice test? High-five your study buddy! These little celebrations can help keep your spirits high and motivation strong.

Midterms may be challenging, but with a little creativity and fun, you can tackle them like a pro! Remember, the library is your ally, full of resources and a supportive community ready to cheer you on. So, gear up, enjoy the process, and make some great memories along the way.

Wishing you all a successful and stress-free midterm season! You've got this! 🎉📚✨

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

1.  Having trouble coming up with a research topic? All-in-one databases like Opposing Viewpoints in Context are excellent for exploring ideas! 

2.  You can search multiple databases at one time when using Academic Search Complete.

3.  Reach out to a librarian if you are not sure about the resources you have access to.  You have access to a librarian 24/7 through Ask a Librarian!

4.  Don't get discouraged if you do not get any results at first, you may need to change your subject or keywords for your research.

5.  Research something you are interested in, so you'll be inspired to do your best work!

On Saturday, October 12th from 9am-1pm, TCC's Office of Educational Accessibility hosted a targeted college visit for students with disabilities and their parents. The event took place at the Virginia Beach Student Center and provided opportunities for students to learn more about college-readiness.

Beth Callahan, College-wide Coordinator for the Office of Accessibility, facilitated a Q & A panel with the students.  This panel included Dr. Thomas Geary (English), Kimberly Lee (Psychology), Michael VanderWerf (Skilled Trades Academy) and Heather Fitzgerald (Library Coordinator).

In partnership with SCHEV and the Department of Aging & Rehabilitation.

Today,  a reception was hosted at the Joint-Use Library (JUL) to celebrate four regional artists who donated their artwork to the library. Stop by the Joint-Use Library today to discover these works and more!

• "JUL Glows in Moonlight". Photography by Catherine Johnson. 
• "Soleil Royal". Model Ship by Lee Martin.
• "Fractal Frog" and "Tricolored Heron in Breeding Plumage". Photography by Scott Young.
• "Cheers to Neptune". Photography by Nathan Beck.

Special thanks to Virginia Beach Public Library staff members Donna Simpkins and Sean O'Connell for coordinating this reception in collaboration with Tidewater Community College.

(Blog post co-authored by Ruthie D., TCC Libraries, Portsmouth)

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Here are a few examples of what TCC Libraries have available.

• Health Portal Research Guide
• More information, including overviews and statistics, is available through the American Cancer Society.    

Need more help? We look forward to hearing from you!

1.  Read the abstract before downloading a long scholarly journal article to make sure it's relevant to your topic and worth your time to read.
2. If TCC doesn't own the book or article you're looking for you, you can request an Interlibrary Loan, and we'll try to get it for you from another institution!  Just remember to leave enough time to receive the item!
3. Google Scholar can be checked to see if the article is openly available! Simply copy the citation and paste in quotes to see if full-text is available. This is helpful if you don't have time to wait for an Interlibrary loan!
4. Did you get too many search results? Consider filtering or limiting to specific publication date ranges, languages, full text, peer-reviewed, or publication type.
5. Ever wondered what "Peer-Reviewed" means? The article in a peer-reviewed publication must go through a stringent review process by fellow experts in that field of study to ensure it is well-written, scientifically valid, aligned with standard rules of ethics, and contributes new and significant findings.

Unleash your inner spirits with Kanopy’s Fright Fest! From horror classics to thrilling adventures, Fright Fest celebrates horror and fascination during this spooky season. Get your flashlight ready and start streaming now at www.kanopy.com/category/60744. #FrightFestonKanopy

Hey there! The TCC Librarians are here to share tips for avoiding plagiarism. First, it is critical to define a few terms:

• Plagiarism: presenting within one's own work the ideas, representations, or words of another person, or artificial intelligence, without customary and proper acknowledgement of that person's authorship. (3.1.3 TCC Code of Student Rights and Responsibilities)
• Citation: basic information required to identify and locate a specific source (TCC Libraries)

• Paraphrasing: expressing what is written/spoken using different words than the original author used, but conveying the same meaning (Collins Dictionary)

  

Now, as promised, those two tips for avoiding plagiarism:

1. Cite your sources correctly
2. Paraphrase information 

Still  have questions? Stop by a library or meet with a writing tutor! 

(Blog Post Authored by Dominique M., Chesapeake Campus Library)

Looking for your next read? Try these graphic novels--available at TCC Libraries!

Batman: The Killing Joke

This is a classic for those that want to see the origin story of Batman’s greatest nemesis. How one bad day can change the whole trajectory of your life. Take a look behind the curtain of insanity to see how The Joker became the criminal we know him as.
 

 Harleen
Ever been curious about Harley Quinn’s origin story? Of course there are many places to start, so why not start with Harleen? A deeply heartbreaking and eye-opening story about how far some would go for love, with fan favorite Harley Quinn at the center. 

1. Appropriate publication dates can vary by field of study. Research in the arts and humanities can include a wider range of publication dates as timely resources depending on the research need. Research in the sciences, including health and medicine, should focus on the most recent publications, which will discuss past research in the introductions of the articles. 
2. Research is more of an art than a science. Approach your searches with an open mind and consider the ways the authors talk about the topic to identify different keywords and subjects.
3. You don't have to be on campus to search the library databases! Log in using your myTCC credentials to access full-text articles, ebooks, streaming videos, and more!
4. Searching for a specific phrase? Try putting the words in quotations in the search box. "Physical therapy" is a much more specific search than physical therapy. The database assumes you want all results with the words physical and therapy.
5. Not sure where to start with your research? Check out the TCC Libraries Research Guides. We will have a guide related to your class or your topic that will list the relevant databases, areas in the book collection to browse, and a Research Step-by-Step module. 

TCC Libraries & Tutoring are thrilled to announce our new digital subscription to the New York Times.  

All faculty, staff and students now have access.  We encourage you to take advantage of this resource and create a personal account where all articles, instructional tools, and multimedia are available to you!  https://libguides.tcc.edu/topic/NYT 

Hey students! 📚✍️ Ever felt like citing sources is a maze of confusing rules and endless formats? Fear not! We’re here to demystify the process and make it as smooth as possible. Whether you’re crafting a research paper, writing an essay, or working on a project, proper citation is key to academic integrity. Let’s dive into the essentials of citing sources like a pro!  TCC Libraries offers resources that can aid you in citing sources whether you are using MLA or APA.

Some More Tips that Can Help:

• Start Early: Begin collecting citation information as you research to avoid a last-minute scramble.
• Ask for Help: If you’re unsure about citing a particular source, ask your librarian or instructor for guidance.
• Practice Makes you Better: The more you practice citing sources, the easier it becomes.

With these tips, you’re well on your way to mastering the art of citing sources and upholding academic integrity. Happy writing, and may your citations be accurate and your sources reliable! 🌟📚✏️

The political atmosphere in the US is buzzing with questions and concerns. As we gear up for this critical election, Kanopy is your go-to source for films that dive deep into the history of elections, the voting process, and much more. Equip yourself with an educated political background and make an informed decision this November. https://www.kanopy.com/en/tidewater/category/29291 
 

Hey students! 📚✨ So, you’ve got a mountain of sources for your next assignment or research project, but how do you know which ones are worth their weight in gold? Fear not! We’re here to help you sift through the sea of information and find the treasure trove of reliable and relevant sources. Here’s your step-by-step guide to evaluating sources like a pro.  TCC Libraries offers tools and ways on helping you to evaluate your sources.

https://libguides.tcc.edu/stepbystep/evaluate

Image: Christy C., TCC Libraries, 2023

(Blog post authored by Christy C., TCC Libraries, Norfolk)

Hey besties, let’s talk for a minute about banned and challenged books.

So, banned and challenged books are a big deal in the literary world. 

• Banned books are ones that have officially been prohibited and completely removed from public institutions, therefore restricting access to the content.
• Challenged books face objections or concerns, but may still be available while the challenge is being addressed.

So, why should we even care? Well, it’s all about freedom of speech and expression. When books get banned or challenged, diverse voices and unique ideas are silenced. We should be able to read and explore different perspectives.

These books can tackle some heavy topics like LGBTQ+ issues, racism, religion and even sexual content. They often give a voice to marginalized communities and help us understand their experiences. Literature helps us think about all viewpoints and experiences.

But here’s the kicker: banning or challenging these books doesn’t make those issues disappear! Let's have conversations and celebrate the freedom to read!

So, next time you spot a banned or challenged book, grab it, devour it, and share it with your friends. Embrace diversity and keep the pages turning during Banned Books Week and beyond!

Tag us on social media and tell us what your favorite banned books are! Also, comment on this blog post!

Hey students! 📚✨ Ready to dive into the world of research without getting lost in the academic jungle? Whether you’re hunting for articles, chasing down videos, or just trying to avoid the dreaded "Google Search Black Hole," we’ve got you covered. Here’s your ultimate guide to finding those golden nuggets of knowledge with a sprinkle of fun!  TCC Libraries has videos and other resources that can aid you in finding the articles or videos you need for your assignment.  Reach out also to Ask a Librarian if you need further assistance.

https://libguides.tcc.edu/stepbystep/articles

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, Sept 15th - Oct 15th, by diving into a curated collection of films and documentaries on Kanopy that honor the cultures, histories, and achievements of Hispanic communities.

Discover new perspectives, celebrate diversity, and connect with impactful narratives
this Hispanic Heritage Month!

Visit our library’s Kanopy Page to start streaming and exploring today:
www.kanopy.com/category/65202. 

Latin Studies Research Guide (TCC Libraries)

 National Hispanic Heritage Month (Library of Congress)

Ever felt lost in the sea of information online? That’s where librarians come in! Whether you need help finding credible sources, understanding evaluating source, or exploring a new topic, asking a librarian can turn your quest for knowledge into a smooth, guided adventure. Next time you’re stuck, remember: a librarian is your go-to resource for making sense of it all. Dive in and ask away!  Librarians can be reached 24/7 through Ask a Librarian.  

This week, we continue our trek to refresh our researching skills. This week, we'll explore Developing a Search Strategy & locating books/eBooks. 

Before searching our databases, it will be helpful to choose a topic as well as develop keywords to use in your search. Please explore these resources on selecting a topic and developing a search strategy.

https://libguides.tcc.edu/stepbystep/search 

The next step in the research process involves locating books and eBooks. Whether you are looking for a good read or a source for an assignment, the library has you covered! Explore our instructional videos and materials to learn how to search the Library Catalog, discover eBook databases and more! As always, please contact us if you have any questions!

Comment and share with us what you are currently reading.

Happy reading and researching!

All current TCC students are invited to join our Tic Tac Toe Reading Challenge!

Stop by a library to pick up your October challenge card and start reading to complete a row in tic tac toe style! This month's themes are Sports Reads and Spooky Reads.

Fill-out the information on the back of your card, then bring your completed Tic Tac Toe Challenge card to the library before the 2nd of November to claim your prize.
 

Additional challenges will be available in November — see how many you can complete! Finish all three challenges (September-November) to be entered into a grand prize drawing in December! 

For more on the rules, or to print your reading card, please visit https://libguides.tcc.edu/TCCLibraryTicTacToe/ 

 

(Authored by Chris S., TCC Libraries, Virginia Beach Campus)

Image: TCC Libraries, Virginia Beach Campus, 2023

Are you having trouble studying at home? Did you know that the TCC Virginia Beach Campus Joint-Use Library offers FREE private study rooms?

• Study rooms are available for up to 4 hours per person per day.
• There are 35 study rooms available at the Virginia Beach Campus Joint Use-Library.
• Each study room can seat at least 4 people, with some rooms allowing up to 8 people.
• The study rooms feature glass walls that can be used as a whiteboard to write formulas or any other information that you may need to record.
• Our study rooms are very popular, and can be booked up to a week in advance! Visit https://tcc.libcal.com/reserve/JULstudy to reserve your room!

*Please note that while this post highlights the study rooms at Virginia Beach, Norfolk also has study rooms. https://tcc.libcal.com/reserve/Norfolk 
Study space is also available at all four campus libraries and in tutoring centers!

With the Fall semester getting started, it's a good time for a refresher on research basics. This week, we'll explore Step 1: Getting Started.

Please enjoy these quick videos to learn how to navigate the library website, terms to know, types of sources and the Ask A Librarian service. 

https://libguides.tcc.edu/stepbystep/getstarted 

In the ever-evolving landscape of higher education, the role of the college library has transformed from a mere repository of books to a vibrant hub of learning and collaboration. At the heart of this transformation lies a crucial partnership: the collaboration between librarians and instructors.

In Professor Orlando Stone’s English class, traditional literature meets the silver screen as students learn from Librarian Missy Comer how to find films to review based on movies available in the library’s collection. She also navigates students through the process of locating top critics and reliable biographical information on directors, actors and others tied to the film the student has chosen to review.

Together, Stone and Comer play a pivotal role in this cinematic journey of inspiring students to explore, learn and grow. 

Faculty can begin collaborating with a TCC librarian, complete our library instruction request form today! Students can also make appointments with a librarian, use our 24/7 chat reference service and more! Librarians are ready to help with all things research! 

Welcome to the Fall 2024 semester! You've got this!

Visit a tutoring center, library or access our digital resources & services. TCC Libraries & Tutoring are here to help you with academics and so much more! 

Check back often to discover free classes and events, too! 

Subscribe, comment and visit our blog often to stay informed.

Are you ready to dive into a world of knowledge and adventure? Mark your calendars for September 10, 2024, from 11:30am to 1:30pm, and join us at your campus library for our Libraries and Tutoring Open House event. Get ready to discover how libraries and tutoring can support your academic success.

 This event is designed to help you unlock your inner champion by showing you the resources available at your fingertips. Whether you need help with your studies or are looking for a quiet place to focus, the campus libraries and tutoring centers have got you covered.

Need some puppy therapy? Come to the Joint-Use Library (JUL) on the Virginia Beach Campus on Wednesday, August 28th from 10am-12noon to visit with these ‘pawsitively’ awesome pets! https://tcc.libcal.com/event/12872818?hs=a 

Question: How can I learn about the resources & services available to me through Libraries & Tutoring?

Answer: Our website is a great place to start! Whether you bookmark our website directly, access through Canvas, or navigate through the TCC website, hundreds of resources are awaiting you! We are academics and so much more!

Need more help finding our website? Please see the short video within this post for an overview!

https://libguides.tcc.edu/library

August 1st is the last day of classes for Summer! Congratulations on completing the semester!

Just a reminder to check your library account to make sure all items are returned/renewed before August 1st!

• The Joint-Use Library will remain open during intersession.
• The Chesapeake, Norfolk and Portsmouth Campus Libraries will be open through August 1st and will re-open on August 26th.

In-person returns are available at Chesapeake, Norfolk and Portsmouth until August 1st. If library is closed, please use book drop options to return books and/or DVDs. Hotspots and calculators are recommended to be returned in person by August 1st.