Based on the principle that knowledge is light, with the library as its source, and within the framework of strengthening academic ties and fostering cultural and research awareness, the Department of English at the College of Education for the Humanities at the University of Kerbala organized an academic visit to the University Library. This visit was conducted under the direct supervision of the esteemed Head of the Department, Asst. Prof. Dheyaa Khaleel Nayel, with the participation of Asst. Lect. Ban Thiyab, instructor of the Guidance and Psychological Health course in the department, and accompanied by students of third-year morning study.
The visit aimed to enhance research culture by familiarizing students with the academic sources and references available in the library, bridging theoretical knowledge with practical application, and providing students with opportunities to benefit from specialized books and journals in English language and world literature. It also sought to promote psychological well-being by highlighting the role of reading in relieving academic stress, in line with the objectives of the Guidance and Psychological Health course. Additionally, the visit aimed to strengthen the relationship between the department and the library as a step towards future collaboration in joint academic activities.
During the tour, students explored the library’s main sections, including the periodicals hall, the rare books section, the electronic resources section, and the research methodologies section, among others.
Ms. Awatif, a staff member of the Central Library at the university presidency, provided a comprehensive explanation of how to navigate the electronic catalog, borrow materials, and utilize digital services. Students were also directed to essential reference books in English literature and literary criticism.
In his address, the esteemed Head of the Department emphasized that the library serves as the heart of the university, where the culture of scientific research is cultivated. He underscored the importance of such visits in refining students’ research skills.
Furthermore, Asst. Lect. Ban Thiyab conducted a discussion session on the role of reading in promoting students’ psychological well-being. She explored how reading can serve as a medium for self-expression and anxiety reduction, emphasizing that “this visit embodies the integration of academic and psychological care, as reading contributes to the development of a well-balanced university student.”
At the conclusion of the visit, students expressed their enthusiasm. Student Zahraa Qasim voiced her admiration for the library’s organization, stating, “I discovered sources I was unaware of, particularly in the field of American literature.”
Meanwhile, student Hussein Alwan remarked, “The discussion session on psychological health and guidance opened new horizons in understanding the role of counselling in our daily lives.”
The visit concluded with the Head of the Department extending gratitude to the library administrators and staff for their warm hospitality. The department reaffirmed its commitment to repeating such initiatives and proposed organizing joint workshops between the library and the college departments to enhance students’ awareness of the library’s significance in academic and scientific development.
