Library | Western Technical College

Student Life

Library

About the Library

Empowering learners. Building community. Fueling curiosity.

At Western’s Library, discovery meets support. We connect you with tools, resources, and people who help you succeed in class, grow your curiosity, engage with your community, and learn for life.

The Library is part of the Learning Commons, located in Room 201 of the Student Success Center. Whether you're studying in La Crosse or taking classes online, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

What We Offer

Resources & Research Tools

  • A vast collection of electronic articles, ebooks, journals, and more
  • Powerful, easy-to-use database search tools for your assignments
  • Digital resource guides to link you to the resources you need or help you navigate college-level research
  • Open Educational Resources (OER) to reduce textbook costs and support student success
  • A variety of print books and physical materials you can borrow for free

Personalized Support

  • Friendly librarians ready to help with research, navigating resources, and using sources
  • Guides, tutorials, and workshops to help you build academic skills
  • Assistance wherever you are—online or in-person

Study Spaces & Technology

  • Quiet study areas, group rooms, and collaborative zones
  • Computers, printing, scanning, and device charging
  • Activities for building community, taking a brain break, or trying something new
  • Support with online tools from real people who care about your success

Borrowing & Returns

Search the Library Collection

Most Western library materials are available to borrow for free, with some special collections designated for in-library use only. You can check out materials with your Western ID.

Interlibrary Loan

Western students and employees may also borrow materials from other libraries. Please contact us for more information.

Renewals

If you need to keep borrowed materials for longer than the lending period, they can be renewed. Renewals may be made by phone, by email, or by logging into your account.

Returns

Books and most other materials may be placed in a book drop located outside of the Student Success Center or near the entrance of the Learning Commons. Please return any equipment directly to a staff member. You can also ask front desk staff at any of the regional locations to return items to the Library via interoffice mail.

Patrons will be billed for any items not returned or for items that are returned in a damaged condition.

Suggestions and Requests

We strive to provide the information and resources you need and always welcome ideas and suggestions. Please contact us if you have a suggestion or request.

Library Databases

Access the list of databases

The library provides access to a wide variety of databases and other electronic resources. These resources may be used to find scholarly articles, articles from newspapers and magazines, videos, records, and other kinds of information. If you need help using these resources, reach out to a librarian. We’re happy to help!

LibGuides

Access the list of LibGuides

Librarians and other members of the Learning Commons team create digital research, subject, and resource guides (called LibGuides) to link you to the specific information and resources you need for a course or an assignment. LibGuides are available on a variety of general topics as well as academic subjects.

Open Educational Resources

Learn More About OER

Western is making college more accessible and affordable through Open Educational Resources (OER), and the Library is at the heart of this work. We collaborate with faculty to find, adapt, and create quality OER and this work has saved Western students thousands of dollars while also providing flexible, personalized course materials.

Ask a Librarian

Ask a Librarian

Librarians are available to meet with individuals, small groups, and classes to support them in finding information and the right resources for their needs.

We can help you:

  • Navigate the collections inside the library and on the library’s website
  • Learn how to search efficiently to find the sources you need
  • Choose information and resources to help with assignments, papers, and projects
  • Give attribution and cite your sources accurately
Contact Us

Ready to explore, study, or ask for help?