Friday, September 8, 2023
Welcome Warriors!
Whether you are new to campus or returning, I am delighted to welcome you to the University of Waterloo Library.
We’re here to help you find and use a vast universe of information resources to advance your learning and research. Use customized Research Guides on a range of subjects, go straight to the source with digital resources and reach out for a consultation to get one-on-one help from an expert. Or, check out several newly-acquired Library resources. Be sure to visit the Library early this term to use our refreshed study and collaboration spaces and new furnishings in both the Dana Porter of the Davis Centre libraries.
Over the summer, the world of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) continued to grow. GenAI is revolutionizing the way we teach, solve problems, and do research. We’ve created guidance to equip you with the latest information about using ChatGPT, GenAI and related tools in teaching and learning, assignments, and research. As you step into the fall term, I encourage you to approach these powerful new tools critically, and remember that Library experts can support your work with further guidance on information literacy and research.
The Library, in partnership with Print + Retail Solutions, has created a program that facilitates discussion and learning about anti-Black and anti-Indigenous racism and equity issues. Growing out of the PART Book Club, the Anti-Racism Reads program supports the UWaterloo community as we advance our education, awareness and understanding of race, culture and ethnicity across campus, Canada and beyond. Check the Anti-Racism Reads website for upcoming book club events this fall term.
I’m thrilled to share that the Office of Research and the Library will co-sponsor an invitational workshop, that will bring over 30 Canadian higher education institutions together on the Waterloo campus from September 27-29 to discuss and exchange ideas as they develop Research Data Management (RDM) programs and services. This workshop has been made possible in part by generous support from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada, as well as in-kind and cash support from the University of Waterloo, University of Calgary, University of Ottawa, the Canadian Association of Research Libraries, OCLC, Compute Ontario, and the Digital Research Alliance of Canada. After the workshop, a White Paper will be released.
As your partner in learning and research, the Library is poised to help you seize new opportunities to advance your learning and research, and contribute to the vibrant UWaterloo community. Here’s to an amazing and productive year!
Beth Namachchivaya, University Librarian
