Written by: Emilee Dillon
The J. Otto Lottes Health Sciences Library is one of many specialized libraries on campus here at Mizzou. If you’re looking for a new study spot, a group project space, or somewhere to cozy up with a good book, the Health Sciences Library may be a place for you to check out.
One thing I have heard a lot is the struggle to find flexible, comfortable seating in libraries. The good news is the Health Sciences library has you covered! Provided are individual podded chairs that offer comfortable seating and include a footrest, lights, and even an outlet. These pods offer more secluded, comfortable seating, with all the necessities provided, so you can stay comfortable while working on your studies. Walking through the student center, I have also noticed that the booths downstairs and upstairs are very popular. While Ellis does have a few booths on the 1st floor, the Health Sciences Library has a whole wall of booths and a few other sections as well. Also, if after sitting in classes all day you feel the need to take a break from sitting, but you also know you need to study, the Health Sciences Library has standing desks!
Although the Health Sciences Library has plenty of research material that is not the only thing it is used for, nursing and medical students can check out some course-specific textbooks right from the library! If you need a break from studying, you can also find a wide variety of books to read for leisure near the front of the library.
I have realized that students here at Mizzou love whiteboards, and this library delivers. There are double-sided mobile whiteboards for students to use, as well as large whiteboards near tall tables, perfect for group work or mind-mapping. If you’re like me, near finals, TikTok is a popular place to go for study motivation. The health sciences library has the popular floor-to-ceiling whiteboards featured in these study-hack videos in their study rooms, which are perfect for memorization or just organizing your ideas.
The health sciences library also has excellent lighting, warm, cozy yellow, rather than the harsh white lights that can make it difficult to focus. There is also a part of the library that, during daylight hours, has excellent natural light and a beautiful view of Stankowski field.
As mentioned before, the Health Sciences library has private and group study rooms that can be reserved here at the Missouri Libraries website! It is also important to mention that the Health Sciences Library is open to all majors. While medical and nursing students have longer hours, they may access the facility; all students are welcome and encouraged to use the library.
You can find more information on the Health Sciences library, including their hours and location, on their website, J. Otto Lottes Health Sciences Library.