Study Breaks: Unwind With These Student Sponsored Events

As the countdown to the final exam period begins, the number of students found studying in the library is quickly increasing. Deadlines are approaching, and the stress of finals may be starting to set in amongst many.

Staying motivated, however, also requires you to take some breaks from studying from time to time. To encourage this, the McGill Library will be hosting Study Breaks. Sponsored by different clubs and associations here at McGill, Study Breaks will provide a snack and/or refreshment break for the community, allowing you to step away from your work and unwind for a bit.

Two upcoming Study Breaks will be taking place this semester, both taking place in the Innovation Commons in the McLennan-Redpath Complex.

The first, sponsored by the Chinese Students and Scholars Association, will take place from 12pm-2pm on Thursday, November 30th.

Sponsored by the Science Undergraduate Society, the second Study Break will take place from 12pm-2pm on Friday, December 1st.

Study Breaks are a great opportunity for everyone to unwind with a snack, so be sure to take full advantage of these events while you’re at the library!

Discovering “Home is Where the Heart is” a Redpath Library Book Display

Hey book lovers! If you’ve been to the Redpath Library Building recently, you might have noticed a fantastic new book display called “Home is Where the Heart is.” This display is a literary journey into the many facets of home and belonging, featuring some of the amazing titles below.

1. The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan: A poignant dive into the immigrant experience, unravelling the cultural clashes and familial bonds of Chinese-American women and their daughters.

2. Burnt Sugar by Avni Doshi: Avni Doshi’s exploration of mother-daughter dynamics weaves through the complexities of memory and identity, delivering a thought-provoking narrative.

3. I Am Homeless If This Is Not My Home by David J. Cherrington: Cherrington’s honest portrayal challenges perceptions of home, offering a poignant glimpse into the lives of the homeless and inviting readers to empathize with those on the margins of society.

4. The Long Road Home by Danielle Steel:  A compelling journey through the challenges of war and separation, Danielle Steel’s narrative underscores the resilience of a family and the enduring power of love.

5. Home Is Not a Country by Safia Elhillo: Safia Elhillo prompts readers to reconsider the concept of home, exploring the intricate landscapes of identity and belonging beyond geographical boundaries.

6. Our Town by Thornton Wilder: Thornton Wilder’s timeless classic transcends its small-town setting, inviting readers to reflect on the universal aspects of human existence and the notion of home as a place where one truly belongs.

7. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott: Louisa May Alcott’s beloved classic celebrates the enduring power of sisterhood against the backdrop of the Civil War, offering a glimpse into the strength and resilience of the March sisters as they navigate the challenges of growing up.

This collection is more than just books on a shelf—it’s an invitation to reflect on what “home” really means. So, next time you’re in the Redpath Library Building, grab one of these novels and scan the QR code to explore the profound concept of home in all its rich, diverse glory. Happy reading!

Exploring McGill University’s Study Guides


As you embark on your academic journey at McGill University, having the right resources at your fingertips can significantly impact your success. In this blog, we’ll introduce you to a selection of recommended books available at the McGill Libraries. These resources cover various aspects of academic writing, research, and presentation skills, making them valuable assets for your educational pursuits.

Recommended Books

1. “100 Tips to Avoid Mistakes in Academic Writing and Presenting” by Adrian Wallwork and Anna Southern:
This book is an indispensable guide to academic writing and presentation skills. With 100 practical tips, it offers insights to help you avoid common mistakes and enhance your writing and presentation abilities. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced scholar, this resource will help you craft more polished and professional academic work.

2. “A Student’s Writing Guide: How to Plan and Write Successful Essays” by Gordon Taylor:
Gordon Taylor’s guide is a comprehensive approach to essay writing. It provides valuable insights on how to plan, structure, and write successful essays. Whether you’re tackling essays as assignments or part of your research, this book offers essential guidance to excel in your academic writing.

3. “EndNote 1-2-3 Easy!: Reference Management for the Professional” by Abha Agrawal and Majid Rasouli:
Proper reference management is vital for academic research and writing. This book simplifies the use of EndNote, a popular reference management software. It helps streamline your research process, ensuring you can cite your sources correctly and efficiently.

4. “Stylish Academic Writing” by Helen Sword:
Academic writing doesn’t have to be dull and dry. Helen Sword’s book explores the art of crafting stylish and engaging academic prose. It offers practical tips and examples to make your academic writing more accessible and appealing to readers.

5. “Writing the Research Paper: Multicultural Perspectives for Writing in English as a Second Language” by Philip M. McCarthy and Khawlah Ahmed:
For non-native English speakers, this book is an excellent resource for improving research paper writing skills. It provides multicultural perspectives and guidance to help ESL students excel in academic writing. Whether you’re writing research papers or working on academic projects, this resource offers insights into effective writing in English as a second language.

These recommended books, available at the McGill Libraries, offer valuable guidance and tips to help you excel in academic writing, research, and presentation. Whether you’re looking to improve your writing skills, manage references efficiently, or make your academic writing more engaging, these resources can empower your academic journey. Explore these books and enhance your academic success at McGill!