Virtually supporting students, faculty and staff is nothing new for the team at Merrimack’s McQuade Library. Staff members have been offering digital services for years – long before COVID-19 affected patrons’ access to the physical library.
Kathryn Geoffrion Scannell, Director of the McQuade Library, says that while she likes people coming to the library, they don’t have to because McQuade offers such a rich online experience.
“The library is a one-stop-shop for your academic needs,” she said. “We are here to support the Merrimack community in the virtual realm.”
McQuade has set up a continuity of library services webpage that provides information for students and faculty on how best to interact digitally with library staff. Students can access textbooks, e-books, online resources, videos and help from the media center to successfully complete course work.
“We have trained professionals to instruct and guide students, faculty and staff,” Geoffrion Scannell said. “We want to meet people virtually where they are and provide services.”
There are also a number of research opportunities through McQuade’s digital services. A virtual visit to the library takes students to research guides, research help, Merrimack ScholarWorks and more. Students can use the “ask a librarian” service for help with research projects. Online research consultations are also available for faculty and students.
Adding to academic offerings is the Libby app, a tool that provides access to thousands of books, e-books and magazines for free.
