I was able to visit UTPA (my alma mater) on Wednesday 6/24. Things sure have changed since I graduated in 2000! The library has since expanded quite a bit. I did not get a tour, instead I did my own research ahead of time and just wandered around taking it all in. According to their webpage, "the collection consists of more than 417,300 volumes, 21,500 government documents, 5,300 audiovisual materials, and 2,035 annual periodical title subscriptions."The library lobby is very large and spacious. Students can walk through it without actually accessing the library. This makes it more convenient than walking around the library to reach your class. There are many snack items for sale in the lobby. Also there are many display cases with student work. Seating is staggered around the room.
The first floor has theft prevention devices that you walk through on the way in and out. There is a circulation desk for assistance. In addition, there are popular new books displayed here. Back behind the circulation area, there are library instructional classrooms. This is where librarians conduct classes on how to research, etc. Among other things, there is also a writing lab where students can seek assistance with research writing. Down the back hallway is an art gallery of student work and outside contributors.
The second floor consists of research materials including print journals, government documents, reference books, research and internet computers. The reference desk is located here as well as administration. Dispersed throughout are study carrels as well as small group study rooms. There are seventy five computers available for research located right beside the reference desk. Call numbers A-L are located in the stacks on this floor.
The third floor holds audio visual materials as well as reserve materials on hold for students in particular classes. Microform readers, microfiche are located on this floor as well as a help desk. The general fiction book collection is located here and classified according to LOC. There is a large lounge area on this floor. Call numbers M-Z are located in the stacks on this floor.
The fourth floor has a brand new media lab with state of the art technology. Bound periodicals are located here, as well as oversized items, and the juvenille collection. Group study rooms as well as individual study carrels are available on this floor.
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