Library Services remains committed to supporting learning, technology and research needs. Although physical library spaces are currently closed, services will be available as classes move online to provide virtual support in a variety of ways. Starting March 23, Library and Tech Bar support staff will be available via askON chat service (for library support) and Tech Chat (Tech Bar and Teach Me Tech support) from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Library Service Support: Research Help, APA Citation Support, Tech Questions & More
All Conestoga clients can contact Library Services with questions by email or via our askON chat service from 9:00 a.m. -6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. For more in-depth support, book a virtual consultation with a program liaison.
Academic Integrity
Citing and referencing help will be available Monday-Friday from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. on the library's askON chat service. Guidelines on policy and procedure, types of academic misconduct students should avoid, information about Turnitin, and other supports on the Academic Integrity Website. A new workshop for faculty on using Turnitin for remote teaching is being developed -- more information will be available soon. For general guidance for students, faculty, staff and administrators, please contact Cory Scurr at cscurr@conestogac.on.ca.
Comm1085 Drop-In
In-person Comm1085 drop-ins have been canceled. Online help is still available. "Drop-in" for research and citing help online via askON chat service from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. For help with writing assignments, book a virtual appointment through the online booking system.
Copyright
Questions about integrating new content or media into assignments or online teaching materials? Refer to the library's guides, Copyright For Students or Copyright For Faculty and Staff, or contact copyright specialists James Yochem, jyochem@conestogac.on.ca or Tessa Dueck, tdueck@conestogac.on.ca.
Tech Bar Services
Tech loans are not available. Technical support will continue to answer questions by email or Tech Chat (via Microsoft Teams) from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday starting March 23.
Writing Services
Writing Services is available to support students through all stages. All writing appointments have been moved to virtual sessions, creating a safe and productive environment. Students wanting to improve writing skills or receive assistance with writing assignments can book a virtual appointment through the online booking system. Service hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Monday-Thursday, and 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. on Fridays.
Off-Campus Resources/Services
The Off-Campus Resources/Services webpage offers a list of library resources (digital collections, databases, ebooks, streaming video), how to get library help online (email, chat, online consultations), and a section about online classes offering information for students about getting started with Zoom and Microsoft Teams.
Workshops (For Faculty)
The library often conducts workshops, and we will continue to support student success in this way. Virtual Research, Academic Integrity, and Writing and Citing workshops are available using Zoom. Those interested in a virtual writing workshop can contact the Writing Team at writingservices@conestogac.on.ca; those interested in a virtual research workshop session, please contact your applicable program liaison; those interested in a virtual academic integrity workshop, contact Cory Scurr at cscurr@conestogac.on.ca.
Library Loans
All library loans have been suspended for the time being. Please note that Library Services has extended the loan period on items (i.e., books) that are currently checked-out by clients. The new return date is April 20, 2020 (will be extend if necessary). Overdue fees will be suspended during this period. Those planning to leave the region can make alternative arrangements for returning library materials through Security Services, please email lrcccirc@conestogac.on.ca.
The Learning Portal
The Learning Portal provides shared access to online resources from all Ontario colleges. Students can find access to open learning resources and services, including information about study skills, research, writing, digital skills, digital citizenship and more. For Faculty, the Faculty Toolkit is an academic support platform with access to open educational resources, quizzes, assignments and other information useful for course and assignment design. It includes sections on AODA best practices, Indigenous content inclusion and much more.
Service hours are subject to change as we continue to assess Library and Tech support services in the coming days and weeks.