Most people go to the library to study with friends, or because the 4th floor keeps them more focused than they would be elsewhere. I use the library for studying the majority of the time, but I also use RBD for its archives and extensive book collection. The first time I checked out a book was for one of my history papers sophomore year, but I have used the library for more than just studying ever since. At first, it seemed kind of strange to walk through the rows of books because I hadn’t checked out a book in college, but it was so easy to find what I was looking for. The organization system is straightforward and you can always ask someone at the reference desk if you get stuck. You can even get the book’s call number texted to your phone, so you will have it to refer back to when you’re looking for it. I almost always end up checking out more books than I need because I see an even more interesting book right next to the one I was initially searching for. However, most of my friends have never checked out a single book from the library and I feel like they are truly missing out. There are books and online articles about almost everything and you can always use Interlibrary Loans to get something that is not found on Auburn’s campus. I know most people don’t have time for casual reading with their academic load at Auburn, so I would also recommend using some of the online journal databases like J-Store. I have used academic journals for multiple classes and subjects. By going through the Auburn Libraries page on the Auburn website it makes it easy to find peer reviewed, legitimate journals that can be used for projects and reports. Another great feature of RBD beyond the whiteboard and the multiple study booths, is the archives and special collections. They have great primary sources and everyone that works there is so eager to help you. If you are interested in the history of Auburn there are fascinating sources, not to mention they have really cool book of large Audubon prints. No matter what your major is, it’s my opinion that everyone should use at least one of the many resources that Ralph Brown Draughon Library has to offer.
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