Libraries

Libraries to Aid Students with Stress Relief During Finals Blitz

Graphic with text Distressed? De-stress with University Libraries

To help students cope with the increased stress that comes with preparing for final exams, WIU Libraries will be offering opportunities for relieving that stress within Malpass Library and the branch libraries. Encouraging notes, coloring pages, a walkable labyrinth, crossword puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, and a limited amount of free coffee will be provided in the time leading up to and during finals, from December 7th through December 18th.

“Librarians at WIU are always here to provide research assistance and academic support,” said Outreach Librarian Christina Norton, “but we also recognize that sometimes what students really need is just a short break from all that.” Since students do a great deal of studying in the library during the last weeks of the semester, Norton added, it makes sense to provide relaxation opportunities in that space as well.

The stress relief stations will be distributed throughout the 2nd and 3rd floors of Malpass Library, and a list of activities and locations will be available from a display near the 2nd floor circulation desk, Norton explained. Coloring pages will also be available in the Curriculum Library and Physical Sciences Library. “We encourage anyone studying in the libraries to check these things out when they need a break,” she said. “When you’re refocused and ready to get back to work, librarians will be happy to help you with that, too.”

For more information, contact Christina Norton at ca-norton@wiu.edu or 309-298-3298.