Newbie 101: Unlock Library Power

More than bookshelves and silent floors, RMIT Library gives you access to academic databases, study spaces, research support, and tools designed to make assignments easier and less time-consuming. Learning how to use these resources early can save you hours of stress and help you feel more confident throughout the semester.

One of the biggest mistakes new students make while researching is relying on Google and Wikipedia. However, finding reliable academic sources among countless search results can be time-consuming and overwhelming.

As one of the largest English language libraries in Vietnam, RMIT Vietnam library gives you access to over 700,000 books, peer-reviewed journals, and course readings that your lecturers expect you to reference in assignments. 
For research papers and reports in particular, the library also provides access to specialised databases such as Euromonitor (Passport), Statista, and WARC, which offer credible up-to-date industry data and reports that can help you gain higher marks in the Research and Referencing rubric.

To get the most out of these tools, start with LibrarySearch, which works like a smarter search engine built for academic research. If you’re getting too many or too few results, use Advanced Search to refine your focus by keywords, titles, or language and find relevant sources more efficiently. You can also expand your results by searching through RMIT Library Australia for additional academic resources.

Strong academic work requires accurate referencing and an understanding of copyright to use materials ethically. When you’re unsure how to cite the RMIT Harvard style, which type of sources to cite, or if the Easy Cite guide still feels confusing, just ask the experts - our librarians, who know their books and citations inside out. 

You can book a face-to-face consultation, drop by the consultation desk, or simply chat online for quick advice.

For students in the School of Communication and Design, referencing can feel especially confusing when assignments involve artworks, photographs, or visual figures that don’t always fit standard referencing rules. To support this, the library has created a dedicated referencing tutorial tailored specifically for you: Referencing tutorial for School of Communication and Design

Regarding the usage of AI tools in your studies, the same principles apply as when using library resources: use them to support your learning, not replace it. Combined with credible sources from the library and correct referencing, responsible AI use can support stronger, more ethical academic work.

Ready to build your personal academic library? RMIT Library offers an impressive 25-book borrowing limit with a full month to explore each title. Simply visit your registered campus library, browse the shelves, and check out your selections in person, your student ID is all you need to get started.

But remember, loans can only be made in person from the library where you register.

If the book you’re searching for isn’t available, your reading journey doesn’t end there. Beyond the on-campus collection, the library lets you borrow from other university libraries, request titles from offsite storage, or even suggest new books to be added. Go to Getting resources from other libraries and submit a free request, because good reading is always worth tracking down.

Each RMIT Library site is equipped with devices connected to the RMIT printing system, allowing you to print, scan, and photocopy your documents. This is especially useful when you need to submit hard copies, scan signed forms, or quickly duplicate study materials. 

Every student receives 50,000 VND of free printing credit in their printing account. Once this credit is used up, you can easily top up your balance as needed. 

When you need a space to focus or collaborate without worrying about disturbing others, sitting at the computer rolls or booking a study room at the library can make a big difference. Whether it’s for group discussions, presentation practice, or last-minute assignment prep, study rooms give you a dedicated space to work more effectively.

You can book a study room online in advance through the library system, choosing a time slot that fits your schedule. During busy weeks, rooms fill up quickly, so booking early is a smart move.

The RMIT Vietnam Library regularly runs practical online workshops with hands-on activities to help you build essential academic skills for a successful semester. These sessions cover research, referencing, academic integrity, evaluating information, and using reference management tools that you can apply directly to your assignments.

Beyond academic support, the library also hosts a range of engaging events in collaboration with student clubs. From hands-on workshops like The Lost Fortune of Daruma, to cultural and creative initiatives such as the Words That Inspire writing contest and Library Pride Week 2025, these events show that the library is more than just a study space, it’s also a place to learn, connect, and create.

Your RMIT journey doesn't have to be a solo struggle. With RMIT Library as your academic ally, you're equipped with millions of resources, expert guidance, and study spaces designed for success. Start exploring these tools today because the difference between struggling and thriving at university often comes down to knowing where to find the right support.

Story: Tram Hoang, a Professional Communication student at RMIT Vietnam. This article does not reflect the views of RMIT Vietnam.