International Services | Campus Cycling Tour: International Freshmen Unlock Their First Library Experience
Event Recap
On October 15 and 22, Tsinghua University Library held two English-guided tours as part of First Stop at Tsinghua, a campus cycling tour for new Chinese and international students. The event was jointly organized by Tsinghua University Library, the International Students & Scholars Center, and the Graduates Union of Tsinghua University. Subject librarians from the Information and Reference Department guided international freshmen through the Main Library. Throughout the tours, they introduced the Library’s facilities, collections, services, rich history and distinctive architecture, helping the participants explore the campus and embark on their academic journey at Tsinghua.
Discovering Resources and Services for Academic Success
West Library: A Knowledge Space for Exploring Science and Technology
The tour began at the West Library (Yifu Library). Subject librarians guided students through the open-stack areas, introduced the collection layout and book classification, and shared practical tips for finding books. Students also learned how to reserve seats and use the self-service facilities, gaining a better understanding of the library’s day-to-day operations. At the Music Library, they discovered another side of the Library and experienced the blend of science and art.
North Library: Exploring Study Spaces and Services
At the North Library (Mochtar Riady Library), students learned about the study spaces and services available to them. The Library offers group study rooms, and individual study rooms for a range of needs, from quiet reading and independent study to group discussions and collaboration. The visit gave students a clearer understanding of the facilities and services available and how to choose spaces that best suit their learning needs.
Old Library: Experience the History and Heritage of Tsinghua University Library
The final stop was the Old Library, where students experienced the rich history of Tsinghua University Library amid its elegant architecture and tranquil reading environment. The subject librarian introduced the Library’s history and distinctive collections, including early Western-language books, as well as works by Tsinghua faculty members and alumni housed in Tsinghua Wenku. Through the visit, students gained a deeper understanding of the Library’s heritage and the campus memories and academic traditions embodied in this century-old building.
From modern learning spaces to a historic building rich in memories, the three libraries showcase the rich collections, diverse functions and cultural heritage of Tsinghua University Library.
Hear from Our International Freshmen
“It was amazing! I loved it. Thanks so much for the time.”
“Thorough, easy to understand, and useful for becoming familiar with the library resources!”
More International Services
In addition to English-language tours for international freshmen, Tsinghua University Library has also offered guided tours for international scholars and IMPA participants this semester. These tours introduce the Library’s spaces, collections, and services to visitors from diverse backgrounds. Through ongoing English-language tours, the Library continues to strengthen connections with its international community, helping more international students and scholars become familiar with the Library and make the most of its resources and services. Looking ahead, the Library will launch a series of cultural and academic activities to help readers explore its academic and cultural resources in greater depth, contributing its unique strengths to Tsinghua University’s efforts to become a world-class university. Stay tuned!
