Workshops

Your 2026 Fall Semester Starts Here: Resources, Spaces & Support

Welcome to the Fall 2026 semester! The Library and Student Learning Centre (SLC) are here to help you get off to a great start with the tools, spaces, and support you need to thrive this term.

🔐 Quick Tip:
To access most online resources, log in with your College Network Account.

📚 Your Study Sanctuary: Library Spaces

Need a quiet corner to concentrate or a space to collaborate? The Ottawa campus Library is open 24/7—perfect for night owls and early risers alike.

✔ Silent study room
✔ Individual study desks
✔ Bookable meeting rooms (located on the 2nd floor of C Building)

👉 Find details on the Library Study Spaces page.

📖 Borrow & Return Books with Ease

Looking for books related to your courses or other reading materials?

🌐 24/7 Digital Access

Explore our A–Z Digital Resource Collections:

📘 eBooks | 📊 Databases | 📰 Journals | 🎥 Videos

Just log in with your College Network Account to access digital resources anytime, wherever you are.

❓ Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers

Browse our FAQs for fast, clear answers to common questions—no need to stress or search endlessly.

✨ Free Academic Coaching at the Coaching Lab

Struggling with a subject or just want to stay ahead? Book a free coaching session, online or in person, for support with:

  • Anatomy & Biology
  • Computers
  • ESL
  • Math
  • Presentation Skills
  • Research Skills
  • Science
  • Study skills
  • Writing and more!

📍 On the Pembroke campus? Visit the Student Support Lab for coaching appointments.

👥 Peer Tutoring: Learn with a Peer

Looking for a little extra support in a course? For just $10/hour, connect with trained student tutors who have successfully completed the same course.

📅 Book sessions online or on campus.

🛠 Skill-Building Workshops

Academic Skills workshops help students build essential skills such as research, citation, academic writing, and effective study strategies.

🔍 Discover More with Page 1+

Think of Page 1+ as your research super tool. Quickly find books, articles, and academic resources relevant to your field—all in one place.

👉 Click here to learn how to start searching with Page 1+.

🧭 Subject Guides: Start Smart

Each guide is packed with resources tailored to your program or subject area—perfect for starting your research or getting to know your field.

👉 Click here to view our list of subject guides.

🌐 The Learning Portal: Province-Wide Resources

Access shared resources from colleges across Ontario through the Learning Portal. Explore helpful modules on:

  • Writing

  • Studying

  • Research

  • Career planning and more!

👋 We’re Here to Help—Anytime

Need guidance, research support, or someone to talk through your academic path? We’re just a message or visit away.

📍 Visit your campus Library Help Desk
💬 Use our Live Online Chat
📅 Book a Research Appointment

We’re excited to be part of your journey this fall. From resources and study spaces to academic support and expert guidance, we’ve got your back all semester long.

🍂 Welcome to Fall 2026!

How to Start a Research Paper: A Step-by-Step Guide for Students

Feeling overwhelmed by your first research assignment? Learn how to choose a topic, find credible sources, organize your ideas, and get free research help from the Library.

If you’ve been staring at a blank screen wondering where to start your research paper, you’re not alone. Research assignments can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re new to college-level research or haven’t written a paper in a while.

The good news? Research isn’t about knowing all the answers—it’s about knowing how to find reliable information and build a strong argument. With the right strategy and support, you can approach your next assignment with confidence.

Step 1: Choose a Research Topic

Every great research paper starts with a clear topic.

Choose a subject that interests you, then narrow it until it’s manageable. A topic that’s too broad can leave you sorting through thousands of results, while one that’s too narrow may not have enough credible sources available.

If you’re unsure where to begin, the Library’s Research Guide includes tips for brainstorming and refining your research question.

Step 2: Plan Your Search Strategy

Before opening a database, spend a few minutes planning your search.

Write down:

  • Your main topic
  • Related keywords
  • Synonyms and alternative terms
  • Broader and narrower concepts

Using different keywords often leads to better search results. The Library’s Subject Guides can also help you identify the best databases and resources for your program.

Step 3: Find Credible Academic Sources

Once you’ve planned your search, it’s time to explore the Library’s resources.

Use Page 1+ and the Library’s Digital Resource Collections to find:

  • Peer-reviewed journal articles
  • Academic books and eBooks
  • Industry reports
  • Reference materials
  • Streaming educational content

As you search, pay attention to your assignment requirements. Your instructor may specify the number or type of sources you need.

Remember: quality matters more than quantity.

Step 4: Organize Your Research

Don’t wait until you’ve finished researching to start organizing your ideas.

As you read:

  • Take notes in your own words.
  • Record citation information for every source.
  • Save useful quotes with page numbers.
  • Group similar ideas together.

Once you’ve gathered your research, create an outline and develop your thesis statement. A clear plan makes writing much easier.

Step 5: Write Your First Draft

With your research and outline complete, you’re ready to begin writing.

Focus on communicating your ideas clearly rather than trying to make every sentence perfect. Your first draft is meant to be revised.

Writing becomes much more manageable when you’ve already done the research and organized your evidence.

Step 6: Cite Your Sources

Proper citations are an essential part of academic integrity.

Citing your sources:

  • Gives credit to original authors
  • Helps readers verify your information
  • Strengthens the credibility of your work
  • Helps you avoid plagiarism

The Library offers citation guides and support for APA, MLA, Chicago, and other citation styles.

Research Help When You Need It

You don’t have to figure everything out on your own. Whether you’re just getting started or putting the finishing touches on your paper, Library staff are here to help.

Book a Research Appointment

Need personalized support? Schedule a one-hour Research Appointment with a Library staff member online or in person.

During your appointment, you can get help with:

  • Choosing and refining a topic
  • Creating an effective search strategy
  • Finding scholarly sources
  • Using library databases
  • Evaluating information
  • Citing your sources correctly

When booking, include details about your assignment so staff can prepare resources tailored to your needs.

Have a quick question instead? Visit the Research Desk in Room C350 for drop-in assistance.

Build Your Skills with Free Workshops

Looking to strengthen your research and academic writing skills?

The Library offers free workshops throughout the semester, both online and in person (Room C263). Topics include finding scholarly articles, searching databases effectively, evaluating sources, and citation basics.

Check the monthly Workshop Schedule to see upcoming sessions.

Need Writing Support?

The Coaching Lab provides free writing and English language support for Ottawa campus students.

Whether you’re developing your thesis, organizing your ideas, or polishing a final draft, the Coaching Lab can help. Visit Room C260 on the second floor of the DARE District to connect with a coach.

Start Your Research with Confidence

Every strong research paper begins with a simple first step.

Choose a topic. Plan your search. Find credible sources. Organize your ideas. Write your draft. Cite your work.

And remember—you don’t have to do it alone. The Library’s collections, guides, workshops, and staff are here to support you throughout the research process.

Good research isn’t about finding all the information. It’s about finding the right information and knowing how to use it effectively.

Your Spring Semester Starts Here: Resources, Spaces & Support

Whether you’re back on campus, learning remotely, or doing a bit of both—welcome to the spring semester! The Library and Student Learning Centre (SLC) are here to help you hit the ground running with tools, spaces, and support designed to help you thrive this term.

🔐 Quick Tip:

To access most online resources, log in with your College Network Account.

📚 Your Study Sanctuary: Library Spaces

Need a quiet corner to concentrate or a space to collaborate? The Ottawa campus Library is open 24/7—perfect for night owls and early risers alike.

✔ Silent study room
✔ Individual study desks
✔ Bookable meeting rooms (located on the 2nd floor of C Building)

👉 Find details on the Library Study Spaces page.

📖 Borrow & Return Books with Ease

Looking for books related to your courses or other reading materials?

🌐 24/7 Digital Access

Explore our A-Z Digital Resource Collections:
📘 eBooks | 📊 Databases | 📰 Journals | 🎥 Videos
Just log in with your College Network Account to access everything, anytime.

❓ Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers

Browse our FAQs for fast, clear answers to common questions—no need to stress or search endlessly.

✨ Free Academic Coaching at the Coaching Lab

Struggling with a subject or just want to stay ahead? Book a free session (online or in-person) for:

  • Math

  • Writing

  • ESL

  • Study Skills

  • Digital Skills and more!

📍 On the Pembroke campus? Visit the Student Support Lab for coaching appointments.

👥 Peer Tutoring: Learn with a Peer

For just $10/hour, connect with trained student tutors who’ve successfully taken the same course.

📅 Book sessions online or on campus.

🛠 Skill-Building Workshops

Boost your academic game with free workshops on:

  • Research

  • Writing

  • Digital literacy

  • Study techniques

Attend in-person or online! Click here to view the full workshop schedule.

🔍 Discover More with Page 1+

Think of Page 1+ as your research super tool. Quickly find books, articles, and academic resources relevant to your field—all in one place.

🧭 Subject Guides: Start Smart

Each guide is packed with resources tailored to your program or subject area—perfect for starting research or understanding your field.

🌐 The Learning Portal: Province-Wide Resources

Access shared resources from colleges across Ontario through the Learning Portal. Explore helpful modules on:

  • Writing

  • Studying

  • Research

  • Career planning

👋 We’re Here to Help—Anytime

Need guidance, research support, or someone to talk through your academic path? We’re just a message or visit away.

📍 Visit your campus Library Help Desk
💬 Use our Live Online Chat
📅 Book a Research Appointment

We’re excited to be part of your journey. From resources to real support, we’ve got your back all semester long. Welcome to a new term!

Give Credit Where It’s Due: Citing Sources Made Easy

Have you ever spent hours studying for a test, only to notice the person beside you sneaking a look at your answers? Or poured your energy into a group project and watched someone else take the credit?
Moments like these can be frustrating—and they’re a great reminder of why giving credit where it’s due really matters.

In academic work, citing your sources isn’t just a rule—it’s a way to respect the time, effort, and ideas of others, while also protecting your own work. The good news? You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. There are plenty of supports available to make citing sources (and avoiding plagiarism) way less stressful.

Skill-Building Workshops (Free!)

Join one of our workshops to build confidence and practical skills:

  • Cite Right! APA Bootcamp
    Get hands-on practice with APA style—covering in-text citations, paraphrasing, reference lists, and citing different source types.

  • Avoiding Cut & Paste Plagiarism
    Explore how to use quotations properly and integrate sources into your work to avoid plagiarism. Perfect for those starting out with research or learning the ropes of proper citation.
  • Understanding Plagiarism: Protect Your Academic Integrity
    Learn how plagiarism relates to Academic Integrity; discover the importance of correctly citing your sources; gain essential skills to ensure your work is always your own.

  • Finding Peer-Reviewed Articles: The Key to Research Success
    Learn how to identify and find scholarly (peer-reviewed) articles through the library’s tools. You’ll also learn how to differentiate scholarly sources from non-academic ones to ensure your research is top-notch.

📍 Workshops are offered online and on campus (Ottawa).
👉 Check out the full Workshops Schedule to find a session that works for you.

Citing Sources and Avoiding Plagiarism Guide

The Citing Sources and Avoiding Plagiarism Guide is a go-to resource for building strong academic habits. Inside, you’ll learn how to:

  • Cite Your Sources
    Access style manuals, citation examples, and interactive modules—especially helpful if you’re learning APA style.

  • Avoid Plagiarism
    Understand what plagiarism is, how it happens, and what you’re responsible for as a student at Algonquin College.

  • Use and Cite Generative AI Responsibly
    Explore guidance on generative AI tools, including how (and when) to cite them in academic work. Always check with your instructor before using AI to avoid academic misconduct.

Explore the Learning Portal

Another great place to build your skills is the Learning Portal’s How to Cite Module, where you’ll learn about:

  • Why citing matters
    Prevent plagiarism, give credit to original authors, and strengthen your research with evidence.

  • Citation styles
    APA, MLA, and more—each style has its own rules, and your instructor will let you know which one to use.

  • How to build citations
    Learn how to create in-text citations and reference lists so readers can trace your sources.

  • Citation tools
    Citation generators can save time and reduce stress once you know how to use them properly.

Need Extra Help?

If you’d like one-on-one support, we’ve got you covered:

Citing your sources isn’t about jumping through hoops—it’s about fairness, credibility, and owning your academic voice. So next time you submit an assignment, remember: cite with confidence and give credit where credit is due. 💡📚

Your Fall Semester Support Starts Here!

Whether you’re back on campus, learning remotely, or doing a bit of both—welcome to the new semester! The Library and Student Learning Centre (SLC) are here to help you hit the ground running with tools, spaces, and support designed to help you thrive this fall.

🔐 Quick Tip:

To access most online resources, log in with your College Network Account.

📚 Your Study Sanctuary: Library Spaces

Need a quiet corner to concentrate or a space to collaborate? The Ottawa campus Library is open 24/7—perfect for night owls and early risers alike.

✔ Silent study rooms available
✔ Bookable meeting rooms (also on the 2nd floor of C Building)

👉 Find details on the Library Study Spaces page.

📖 Borrow & Return Books with Ease

Looking for books related to your courses or other reading materials?

  • Request online via Page 1+

  • Bring your AC Card to borrow in-person or use the Book Locker

  • Return anytime using your campus Library’s drop box

🌐 24/7 Digital Access

Explore our A-Z Digital Resource Collections:
📘 eBooks | 📊 Databases | 📰 Journals | 🎥 Videos
Just log in with your College Network Account to access everything, anytime.

❓ Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers

Browse our FAQs for fast, clear answers to common questions—no need to stress or search endlessly.

✨ Free Academic Coaching at the Coaching Lab

Struggling with a subject or just want to stay ahead? Book a free one-on-one session (online or in-person) for:

  • Math

  • Writing

  • Study Skills

  • ESL

📍 On the Pembroke campus? Visit the Student Support Lab for coaching appointments.

👥 Peer Tutoring: Learn with a Peer

For just $10/hour, connect with trained student tutors who’ve successfully taken the same course.

📅 Book sessions online or on campus.

🛠 Skill-Building Workshops

Boost your academic game with free workshops on:

  • Research

  • Writing

  • Digital literacy

  • Study techniques

Attend in-person or online! Click here to view the full workshop schedule.

🔍 Discover More with Page 1+

Think of Page 1+ as your research super tool. Quickly find books, articles, and academic resources relevant to your field—all in one place.

🧭 Subject Guides: Start Smart

Each guide is packed with resources tailored to your program or subject area—perfect for starting research or understanding your field.

🌐 The Learning Portal: Province-Wide Resources

Access shared resources from colleges across Ontario through the Learning Portal. Explore helpful modules on:

  • Writing

  • Studying

  • Research

  • Career planning

👋 We’re Here to Help—Anytime

Need guidance, research support, or someone to talk through your academic path? We’re just a message or visit away.

📍 Visit your campus Library Help Desk
💬 Use our Live Online Chat
📅 Book a Research Appointment

We’re excited to be part of your journey. From resources to real support, we’ve got your back all semester long. Welcome to a vibrant new term!

Research Tools You Didn’t Know You Had (But Totally Need!)

Does the word “research” make your heart race and your brain freeze? Don’t worry — you’re not the only one! Many students feel overwhelmed when faced with a research paper, especially if it’s their first time doing academic research at the college level.

But here’s the good news: research doesn’t have to be scary. With the right tools, support, and a step-by-step plan, you can conquer that assignment — and we’re here to help make it happen.

Break It Down: Your Research Roadmap

One of the best ways to tackle a big research assignment is to break it into smaller, manageable steps. That’s exactly what the Library’s Research Guide is designed to help you do. Here’s a sneak peek at what it covers:

🔍 1. Define Your Topic

Start strong by choosing a topic that genuinely interests you. If it’s too specific, you might struggle to find resources. Too broad? You could drown in information. The key is balance — and curiosity!

🧭 2. Plan Your Search

Once you’ve picked a topic, brainstorm keywords and synonyms. Use the Library’s Subject Guides to get a head start on where to search. Pro tip: a thesaurus can help you discover alternative search terms to boost your results.

📚 3. Search for Resources

Time to dig into the research! Use Page 1+ and our Digital Resource Collections to find credible, relevant sources. Know what your assignment needs — whether it’s peer-reviewed articles, books, or a specific number of sources — and search with purpose.

✍️ 4. Create an Outline

Now that you’ve got solid sources, it’s time to build your paper’s foundation. Take notes, develop your thesis, and plan the structure of your argument before you dive into writing.

📝 5. Write Your Paper

You’ve done the prep — now it’s time to bring everything together. With your thesis, outline, and notes ready, writing becomes a whole lot easier.

📖 6. Cite Your Sources

Avoid plagiarism and strengthen your credibility by properly citing all your sources. It’s not just about giving credit — citations show your professor that your work is backed by real, trustworthy research.

Need Help Along the Way?

We’ve got tons of support available — whether you’re stuck on step one or just need a little boost before hitting submit.

✅ Book a Research Appointment

Struggling to get started or can’t find the right resources? Book a one-on-one Research Appointment with a friendly Library staff member — online or in person. You’ll get personalized advice on search strategies, resources, and citation help.

🔗 Book a Research Appointment
Appointments are 1 hour long, and you can book one per week. Be sure to fill out the booking form with info about your assignment and what you need help with — it helps us prep and make the most of our time together!

📍 Prefer to drop in? Visit the Research Desk in room C350 for quick questions and support.

🧠 Free Research & Writing Workshops

Sharpen your research and writing skills with free workshops offered online or in-person (room C263). Check out the monthly Workshop Schedule to see what’s coming up.

✍️ The Coaching Lab

Need extra help with writing or English language skills? The Coaching Lab is a great resource for students at the Ottawa campus — no charge, no pressure. Visit us in room C260, second floor of the DARE District.

You’ve Got This 💪

Research might seem intimidating at first, but you’re not in this alone. Whether you need help choosing a topic, searching smarter, or citing correctly — Algonquin’s Library and support services are here to back you up every step of the way.

Take a deep breath. Make a plan. And when in doubt? Reach out.

Chill and Skill: Boost Your AI Smarts This Summer

AI tools are popping up everywhere—from schoolwork to job prep to your daily to-do list. But do you really know how they work, or how to use them well (and ethically)?

This summer, the library is offering two online workshops that break it all down in simple, practical ways.
🎓 Bonus: Attend a full session and you can request a certificate of attendance.

🚀 Why Join?

These workshops are all about giving you the basics—and the confidence—to use AI tools responsibly and effectively. You will:

✅ Learn how to use AI tools to support your studies (without crossing academic integrity lines)
✅ Discover real-world ways AI can save you time
✅ Boost your media literacy skills—so you’re not falling for fake news or sketchy sources
✅ Walk away with tips you can actually use

🧠 Workshop #1: AI at AC – A Beginner’s Guide to Generative AI

Want to know what ChatGPT can actually do? This workshop will help you figure out how to use AI tools in your research, writing, and studying—without breaking any academic integrity rules.

📅 May 21 | 2:00–3:00 PM – Register
📅 May 27 | 1:00–2:00 PM – Register
📅 June 4 | 2:00–3:00 PM – Register
📅 June 10 | 10:00–11:00 AM – Register

🔍 Workshop #2: Media Literacy in the AI Age

Not everything you find online is legit—especially in the age of AI-generated content. Learn how to spot misinformation and evaluate your sources using the C.R.A.A.P. test.

📅 May 20 | 12:00–1:00 PM – Register
📅 May 29 | 10:00–11:00 AM – Register
📅 June 5 | 10:00–11:00 AM – Register
📅 June 12 | 2:00–3:00 PM – Register

📚 See What Else Is on This Summer

These AI sessions are just part of our summer lineup! The Library is also offering workshops on research skills, citations, and more. Check out the full schedule here:

👉 algonquincollege.libguides.com/about/workshops

Got questions? Reach out to the Library—we’re here to help you make the most of your academic journey.

March Into Success: Workshops to Enhance Your Academic Journey!

Whether you’re looking to improve your research skills, boost your study strategies, or gain essential academic writing tools, the Library and Student Learning Centre are offering a range of free workshops this March to help you succeed. Below is a sneak peek into the fantastic workshops available to all AC students throughout the month. Make sure to mark your calendar and take full advantage of these opportunities by signing up for a session.

March 2025 Workshop Schedule: Empower Your Learning

1. On Campus: Cite Right! APA Bootcamp

  • When: March 6, 9:00 AM (Room C263)
  • Where: Library Learning Lab
  • Why Attend: Whether you’re new to APA citation style or need a refresher, this workshop will provide the tools to make citing sources a breeze. Get hands-on experience with citation formatting and learn tips and tricks to avoid common errors.

2. On Campus: Searching with Page 1+: Mastering Library Searches

  • When: March 6, 2:00 PM (Room C263)
  • Where: Library Learning Lab
  • Why Attend: Dive into the powerful features of the Algonquin College Library’s search tools. Learn how to navigate Page 1+ effectively to find the resources you need for research. This workshop is essential for mastering advanced search strategies and maximizing your research efficiency.

3. Online: Jumpstart Your Paper: Strategies for Effective Research

  • When: March 7, 10:00 AM
  • Where: Online (via Zoom)
  • Why Attend: Starting a research paper can be overwhelming, but with the right strategies, you can set yourself up for success. Learn how to plan your research, organize your ideas, and streamline your writing process.

4. Online: AI at AC: A Beginner’s Guide to Generative AI

  • When: March 11, 2:00 PM
  • Where: Online (via Zoom)
  • Why Attend: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing how we learn, work, and create. This workshop will introduce you to the basics of generative AI, exploring how it can assist with research and writing.

5. Online: Building a Strong Foundation: Tips for Conducting Literature Reviews

  • When: March 12, 12:00 PM
  • Where: Online (via Zoom)
  • Why Attend: The literature review is a cornerstone of academic writing. Learn how to search for, evaluate, and organize sources to build a solid foundation for your research project.

6. Study Skills: Getting Started & Avoiding Procrastination

  • When: March 13, 3:00 PM
  • Where: Online (via Zoom)
  • Why Attend: Procrastination can be a major obstacle to academic success. This workshop will provide strategies to help you stay on track and start your projects with confidence. Get advice on goal setting, time management, and staying motivated.

7. Study Skills: Pay Attention to This! – Finding Your Focus

  • When: March 14, 11:00 AM
  • Where: Online (via Zoom)
  • Why Attend: Struggling to concentrate? This session will help you build the skills to improve your focus, manage distractions, and increase productivity.

8. Study Skills: Note Taking Strategies – Make it Stick

  • When: March 14, 1:00 PM
  • Where: Online (via Zoom)
  • Why Attend: Effective note-taking is key to retaining information. Learn techniques that will make your notes more organized, impactful, and easier to review later.

9. Online: Finding Peer-Reviewed Articles: The Key to Research Success

  • When: March 17, 2:00 PM
  • Where: Online (via Zoom)
  • Why Attend: Peer-reviewed articles are critical in academic research. This workshop will teach you how to locate and evaluate peer-reviewed journal articles to elevate the quality of your work.

10. Study Skills: Time Management – Rock the Clock

  • When: March 18, 1:00 PM
  • Where: Online (via Zoom)
  • Why Attend: Time management is an essential skill for academic and personal success. This session will help you create effective schedules, prioritize tasks, and avoid burnout.

11. Online: Paraphrase Like a Pro: Essential Skills for Academic Writing

  • When: March 19, 1:00 PM
  • Where: Online (via Zoom)
  • Why Attend: Paraphrasing is crucial in academic writing to avoid plagiarism and demonstrate your understanding. Learn how to paraphrase correctly and incorporate ideas from other sources into your own writing seamlessly.

12. Online: Avoiding Cut and Paste Plagiarism

  • When: March 21, 10:00 AM
  • Where: Online (via Zoom)
  • Why Attend: Avoiding plagiarism is essential for academic integrity. This workshop will walk you through how to avoid common pitfalls and properly attribute sources in your work.

13. Online: Understanding Plagiarism: Protect Your Academic Integrity

  • When: March 24, 2:00 PM
  • Where: Online (via Zoom)
  • Why Attend: Plagiarism can have serious consequences. This workshop will help you understand what constitutes plagiarism and how to safeguard your academic integrity.

14. Study Skills: Stress Management

  • When: March 28, 2:00 PM
  • Where: Online (via Zoom)
  • Why Attend: Managing stress is crucial during busy academic periods. Learn techniques to help you stay calm and focused, even when facing deadlines and exams.

15. Online: Presenting Skills

  • When: March 28, 12:00 PM
  • Where: Online (via Zoom)
  • Why Attend: Public speaking can be daunting, but with the right techniques, you can make a strong impact. This session will cover the essentials of creating engaging presentations and communicating effectively with your audience.

How to Register

To register for any of the workshops listed above, simply visit the Workshops Schedule. Don’t wait—these workshops are the perfect way to boost your academic performance and build essential skills for success.

Take advantage of these free resources and set yourself up for success this semester!

By attending these workshops, you’ll gain the tools, confidence, and strategies needed to excel in your studies at Algonquin College. Best of luck, and we hope to see you there!

🎉 A Big Welcome to All Our Students! 🎉

Whether you’re stepping into the classroom on campus or engaging in your studies from the comfort of your own home (or even balancing both!), we’re thrilled to have you. The Library and Student Learning Centre (SLC) are here to support you every step of the way, with an array of services designed to make your learning experience as smooth and successful as possible.

Quick Reminder: To access some online resources, you’ll need to log in using your College Network Account.

📚 Library Space: Your Study Sanctuary

Need a quiet place to focus or a spot to meet with your study group? The Ottawa campus Library is open 24/7! 🌙 Whether you’re a night owl or an early bird, you can access a silent study room or even book a meeting room for group work. Need extra space? More meeting rooms are available on the 2nd floor of C Building. More information can be found on the Library Study Spaces page.

📖 Borrowing and Returning Books: Easy & Convenient

Need a book? Simply request items online using Page 1+, or pop into the library to pick it up. All you need is your AC card to borrow books. Returning books? Drop them in your campus Library’s drop box.

🌐 Digital Resources at Your Fingertips

Our A-Z Digital Resource Collections are packed with everything you need to succeed: databases, eBooks, journals, videos, and more! You’ll have 24/7 access—just log in with your College Network Account.

🧑‍🏫 Essential Skills Guides: Learn What You Need, When You Need It

From citing sources and avoiding plagiarism to study skills and math tips, the Essential Study Skills Guide has got you covered. Perfect for brushing up on those important skills you’ll need throughout your academic journey.

🤔 FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Got a question? Visit our FAQ page for answers to commonly asked queries. We’ve gathered all the info you need to make your experience seamless and stress-free.

✨ Coaching Lab: Free Coaching for Your Success!

At the Coaching Lab, you can get one-on-one help in a variety of subjects like math, writing, study skills, and even ESL! Whether you’re on-campus or learning remotely, coaching is available at no charge. Need coaching at the Pembroke campus? Head over to the Pembroke Campus Student Support Lab for appointments.

🧑‍🏫 Peer Tutoring: Learn from Your Peers

Struggling with a course or concept? Peer tutoring pairs you with trained student tutors who’ve excelled in the course you’re taking. The best part? It’s just $9.00 per hour! You can book tutoring sessions online or on-campus.

📚 Skill-Building Workshops: Sharpen Your Academic Skills

Join our free workshops designed to help you strengthen fundamental skills like research, writing, digital literacy, and study techniques. Whether you’re attending in-person or online, these workshops are a fantastic resource to boost your success.

🔍 Page 1+: The Ultimate Research Tool

Meet Page 1+, our resource search tool! It helps you discover and access a wealth of industry-relevant resources more effectively. A must-have for your research!

🌍 Open Educational Resources (OER): Free Learning Materials

Access free, openly licensed textbooks, images, videos, and more with our Open Educational Resources Guide. This is your go-to for finding cost-free materials that support your studies.

📚 Subject Guides: Tailored for Your Program

New to your program? Or diving into a specific research area? Our Subject Guides are curated resources designed for specific programs and areas of study. They’re perfect for preliminary research and getting started.

🖥 The Learning Portal: Access Shared Resources Across Ontario

The Learning Portal offers shared access to resources from all Ontario Colleges. It’s packed with modules on topics like study skills, writing, research, and career exploration.

Get in Touch!

For more info, stop by the Library or connect with us online. Whether you need help finding resources or just want to chat about your academic journey, we’re here to support you!

🔗 Connect with Us:

Have an amazing first few weeks back at school! Let’s make this semester your best one yet! 🌟

From Panic to Empowerment: A Step-by-Step Guide to Navigating Research

Happy October!

Does the mere mention of the word “research” send you into mini panic mode? You’re definitely not alone! For many students, the thought of diving into a research assignment can feel like staring into the abyss of a thousand books, articles, and maybe even some questionable online sources. But fear not! We’re here to transform that overwhelming feeling into excitement and empowerment. Let’s break it down, step by step, and make research a breeze!

Step 1: Quick Help at the Research Desk 📚

If you have a burning question or need a nudge in the right direction, feel free to drop by our Research Desk in room C350. No appointment needed!

Step 2: Book a Research Appointment 🗓️

Imagine having a research buddy who knows all the tricks of the trade. Well, that’s exactly what you get when you book a 1-hour appointment with our fantastic library staff! Whether you prefer to meet online or swing by in person, these knowledgeable folks are ready to help you tackle your research needs. Just make sure to share what you’re working on when you book—this helps us prepare and ensures we make the most of our time together!

Step 3: Join a Free Workshop 🎉

Want to level up your research and writing skills? Sign up for one of our free workshops! Whether online or in-person, these sessions are designed to help you tackle your assignments with confidence.

Step 4: Use the Library Research Guide 🚀

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty! Our Library Research Guide breaks the process into six easy-peasy steps:

  1. Define Your Topic: Choose something that sparks your interest! A topic that excites you will make the research journey much more enjoyable.
  2. Plan Your Search: After gathering some background info, think of the keywords and phrases you’ll need to find what you’re looking for. Don’t forget to check out our Subject Guides for great starting points!
  3. Search for Resources: Time to hunt for those credible sources! Use Page 1+ to cast a wide net, and keep track of what you find—your future self will thank you.
  4. Create an Outline: Once you’ve gathered your sources, start organizing your thoughts. Outlining helps clarify your argument and keeps your paper on track!
  5. Write Your Paper: With a solid outline and your sources ready, it’s time to unleash your inner author! Remember, the first draft doesn’t have to be perfect—just get those ideas flowing.
  6. Cite Your Sources: This is where you show love to all the amazing work that inspired you. Proper citation not only avoids plagiarism but also makes your research legit!

Step 5: Visit the Coaching Lab 🏫

For those needing extra help with writing or English as a Second Language, the Coaching Lab at the Ottawa campus is your go-to spot! Located in room C260, it offers free support to sharpen your skills.

Final Thoughts 🎓

Research doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right resources and a sprinkle of enthusiasm, you can conquer any assignment that comes your way. So, grab your laptop, gather your thoughts, and let’s make research fun!

Happy researching! If you have any questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re in this together!