On July 29, 2024, Gujarat Arts and Science College’s Veer Shahid Vinod Kinariwala Pustakalay hosted a comprehensive Library Orientation Program for the new batch of first-year B.Sc. students. Held in M-5 of the Main Building, specifically in the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Hall, the event aimed to familiarize students with the library’s resources, facilities, and services.

The presentation commenced with an engaging introduction by the Librarian Dr. Sandip Patel , who outlined the program’s objectives and emphasized the crucial role of the library in supporting students’ academic pursuits. The Librarian’s address set the tone for the session, highlighting how the library could be a vital resource throughout their academic careers.

Following the introduction, the presentation delved into the key features of the library. Students were guided through a virtual tour of the library’s layout, including essential areas such as the Reference Section, Reading Room, E-Library, Stock Area, Web-OPAC, and the Circulation Desk. The presentation provided a clear visual understanding of the library’s layout and how to navigate it effectively.

A significant portion of the presentation focused on explaining the library’s catalog system and online databases. Students were shown how to search for books, journals, and other materials using the library’s catalog, and were introduced to various electronic resources and research databases available to them. This segment was crucial in helping students understand how to access and utilize the vast range of materials offered by the library.

To ensure practical understanding, the presentation included interactive elements where students were encouraged to engage with the material. A Q&A segment was integrated into the presentation, allowing students to ask questions and receive immediate responses regarding library services and usage.

Following the presentation, students visited the library to explore its facilities in person. This hands-on experience allowed them to familiarize themselves with the various sections and resources they had just learned about, reinforcing their understanding and providing them with a practical opportunity to navigate the library’s layout. The visit was guided by library staff, who offered additional assistance and answered any remaining questions the students had, ensuring they felt comfortable and confident in using the library for their academic needs.

Overall, the Library Orientation Program successfully met its objectives. The Veer Shahid Vinod Kinariwala Pustakalay team looks forward to supporting students throughout their academic journey.