📍 University of Tartu Library
⏰ Mon-Fri 09:00-21:00, Sat-Sun 12:00–18:00
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Did you know that we’ve mentioned the University of Tartu library six times over the past three blogs alone? You’ve probably wondered what’s so special about the library that we all like it so much. Well, as a medicine student, I’ve arguably spent too much of my time at the library. Therefore, I felt like I’m one of most qualified people to let you know how you what the library has to offer, so hang on tight as we take a quick tour of the University of Tartu library!
Resources
The University of Tartu library offers access to the biggest online databases and e-catalogues in Estonia. Furthermore, there are also many physical textbooks and interesting reads that you can check out and take home with you. These are only accessible if you have a registration with the library though, so if you have not made one yet, don’t forget to check that out here.
Common Study Areas
When it comes to the University of Tartu library, I can never overstate how many common areas there are. Each floor has at least one common room, which tends to be quite big, meaning you’ll (almost) always find a place to study.
Lobby: The library lobby, located on the first floor, has a few seats and tables that are both new and comfortable. One of the main things I like about this area is that it’s not a “silent area,” so if I need to ask about or discuss something, I can! However, if you’re anything like me, the constant movement of people moving in and out of the main doors can be quite the distraction.
Large Hall: Located on the second floor, this is the largest hall at the University of Tartu Library and my favourite. Here, you can find many seating types, such as multiperson couches, two-person couches, and last but not least, the classic round table. I like this hall the most because of two things. Firstly, it’s a silent area, which practically forces you to be productive (especially when you would rather chat with your friend). Second, it’s very spacious. Small, crowded spaces can be quite demotivating, so studying in a hall as large as the one on the second floor is always great.
Reading Hall: Located on the third floor, this hall is another great common area. The identifying feature of this hall is the dividers between each seat and the other.
Private Study Areas
In my experience, and probably yours, sometimes it simply is so that you would rather not be in a room full of people. When that happens, I like to use the library’s offered study rooms. There are two main study room types.
Private study rooms: These are small rooms that are rented out for an hour, a day, or even a semester. As a matter of fact, you can think of them as mini rentable offices with key-locked doors. I have never used them, but you can visit this link to learn more about how they work, the regulations surrounding them, and fees for booking them.
Group work rooms: These rooms are located on the second floor and have a significant variation in size. Whether you’re a group of three or 15 people, you are guaranteed to find a room that can accommodate your study group. Additionally, these study rooms tend to have other accommodations, such as large screens, a whiteboard, and even bean bags. Please note that these rooms can be booked for free, making them a top choice for students. So try to stay vigilant and book ahead! You can read more about group work rooms and booking them here.
Food
With staying long hours at the library comes the need to eat. Most common halls in the library do not allow food and drinks. Instead, there are two main areas designated for food and eating.
Café Gaudeamus: This cafe is on the first floor and is open mainly on weekdays. They offer many lunch options, from ready-packed salads, cakes, and pastries to hot, fresh lunch.
Dining Room: On the third floor, there is a student dining room fully equipped with a kettle, sink, and fridge. You can also find cutlery and plates here, which is beyond useful if you like to bring your own lunch from home.
Photo Credit: Eliise Selisaar, University of Tartu Library Website
Break Rooms
To aid students towards maintaining a healthy balance and support them in taking breaks, the library has made spaces dedicated to non-study-oriented activities.
Recreational Area: The sports and relaxation room is on the third floor, right next to the dining room. Here, there are many beanbags, some basic gym equipment, massage chairs, and even a table tennis setup.
Music Room: Also located on the third floor, the music room has many setups for differently oriented people. Here, you can find many CD and vinyl players for those who like to listen, and a piano for those who enjoy playing.
Exam Season
Last but not least, during the exam season, the University of Tartu library collaborates with the Student Union (UTSU) to accommodate students. During this period, the library is open for 3 hours longer than usual, therapy dogs are invited to come to the library, and during the summer, there is even an ice cream truck. However, it changes from one year to the next, so keep your eyes peeled for the news!
All images are taken from the University of Tartu Virtual Tour unless indicated otherwise
Cover image from University of Tartu Flickr
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