After class students may find that Mt. SAC’s library is one of the best places to study, research, borrow books and do homework assignments.

The library is cool, quiet and comfortable with enough space for social distancing. It is also safer than before, because all students must show a Cleared4 Code Pass to enter the library.

“I like studying in the library because it is quiet, and there is lots of space to spread out my works,” nursing major student Jasmine Dixon said. “The staff is helpful, and I have access to free printing.”

Library and Learning Resources Division Dean Romelia Salinas told SAC.Media that there are almost 9,000 student visits each week: 2,000 per day from Mondays to Thursdays, 500 on Fridays, and 140 per day over the weekend. These students are assisted by 11 library staff members, eight full time librarians and two adjuncts.

As you walk into the library you are instantly greeted with a cool and comfortable environment to escape from the scorching heat. Upon entering the library, students will see a station mandating the cleared pass, which librarians and staff will scan. If a student is unable to show their pass they will not be allowed to enter the library.

Librarian Eva Rios-Alvarado and Tech Support staff Victor Preciado scanned the passes and patiently explained the new mandate before teaching students how to get their Code Pass. Rios-Alvarado said that about one-tenth of students were not clear, and those individuals were not allowed to enter the library.

As a matter of fact, students feel safer with the strict control of the COVID-19 pandemic in the library.

“I feel safe studying in the library,” biology major Corey Kelsey said. “I like that the school is moving forward with enforcing stricter policies of checking vaccine cards and weekly testing.”

Kelsey added that he felt the library was comfortable and that he goes there three times a week, and Dixon comes to the library twice a week for about two hours at a time.

The welcoming atmosphere created by the librarians and staff makes students feel safe during uncertain times. The librarians and staff show students lots of support through their patience, expertise, positive attitude and smiles.

“I aim to help all students by creating a welcoming environment and making students feel comfortable asking questions,” Career Education Librarian Monika Chavez said. “I prepare by learning about the classes at Mt. SAC and keeping updated on research.”

Chavez likes to answer students’ questions patiently and with a smile. She is joined by her colleague Sandy Krause, a part-time librarian, at the front desk.

“I feel comfortable coming to the school library,” veterinarian technician major Melissa Flores said. “The environment feels welcoming and safe. The staff is very supportive with any questions I have regarding school.”

Free copies, scanning and printing is available for Fall 2021 alongside some popular workshops for students. Finding and Evaluating Articles, Finding and Evaluating Books, Developing Research Topics and Evaluating Websites are among the scheduled workshop offerings.

“We are all growing and learning. I just happen to be supporting people from the library research aspect of learning as a librarian.” Rios-Alvarado added. “We all have a role and are active in those roles as learners, teachers, friends, colleagues and community.”

The library also provides Library Hours, Free print and Free Scan to Email or USB, Learning Assistance (LERN), Library & Instructional Media (LIBR), Reading (READ), Academic Support and Achievement Center, Faculty Center for Learning Technology, Division Contacts and LLR FAQs among other resources.