Monday, November 29, 2021 by Shriya Parikh
If you’re anything like me, you’re always looking for a book to read. Over the years I’ve read many books from multiple genres and am always looking for a new recommendation. However, during the pandemic, I began to feel isolated in more ways than one. Not only was I unable to leave my house, but I was unable to escape the real world and lose myself in a book.
Are you able to relate?
When I discovered Waterloo Reads, I was ecstatic. Not only would I be able to read more books, but I would also be able to discover new popular non-fiction and fiction titles. Physical books, e-books or audio books. Regardless of your preferred way to indulge in books, Waterloo Reads has got you covered. Worried that you won’t be able to finish the book in time? You are able to sign out books from this collection for 120 days at a time (extended from 2 weeks due to the pandemic) and have the option to renew it once.
With over 350 titles, and the collection being updated twice a year, you are guaranteed to find something that interests you.
Accessing Waterloo Reads
When on the Library’s home page, simply look under the “Quick Links” tab and select “Research Guides.” Once there, select “All Guides” and scroll all the way down until you see “Waterloo Reads.”
Next step?
Log into the system using your WatIAM credentials and explore the collection and see what catches your attention!
Accessing titles
As Waterloo Reads offers many formats of books, there are different ways to access each format. Accessing an e-book is very simple. Once logged into the system, simply select a title and begin reading directly in your browser. It’s as simple as that!
When looking for a physical copy, there are two ways to go about accessing a book. You are able to either pick it up from the Library at the University of Waterloo, or you can have it mailed to your house using the Books by Mail service (if you live in Canada). Books by Mail is a new service the Library began offering in November of 2020. You don’t have to worry about the cost of mailing the book back as prepaid return shipping labels will be sent along with the book for your convenience.
Recommendations
What is my favourite part of Waterloo Reads? The fact that you can recommend a book to be added to the collection! Simply go to the Waterloo Reads main page and select the “Recommend a Book” tab. Please keep in mind that submitting a recommendation does not guarantee the book will be added to the Waterloo Reads collection.
Final thoughts
Final exams are fast approaching, meaning that Winter break is right around the corner. Take some time this holiday season and explore the vast variety of books Waterloo Reads has to offer. ‘Tis the season to curl up with a cup of hot chocolate and a great book!
