Research Commons: Research Commons

The Research Commons opening hours are from 08H00 - 05H00 pm, Monday - Friday.

Public holidays and Weekends remain closed.

Libguides are created by librarians to help you find library resources on your subject. These guides give you a starting point for research, and some guides contain extensive information about various topics of the research process.

Every effort has been made to point to library services and resources to guide users through the various stages of the research process.

The Research Commons laptops are now been issued for in-library use only. 

The Library recognizes the varied needs of different scholarly audiences. The  Research Commons aims to balance those needs and conveniences with a host of opportunities from a quiet research space to collaboration and interaction. Located in the William Cullen library the Research Commons provides quality services, expert help and seamless access to research information

The facility can comfortably seat 50 people with varied seating. The Research Commons includes the availability of laptops, convenient with WiFi, desks equipped with data/power points and research support.

Swipe card access grants entry to Wits staff engaged in research as well as postgraduate students at Masters and Doctoral level.

Services:

Research support services available to researchers include:

• One-on-one consultations with skilled research librarians.
• Print and web based information finding.
• Education and training in library research and application of related technologies to enhance independent information finding.
• Bibliographic management software support to ease the management and compilation of references.
• Interlibrary loans to access materials available at other higher education institutions and libraries.
• Borrowing and use of laptops in the Research Commons.
• Printing.
• Advice on research publications, including institutional repositories, and dissemination of research results.
• Regular updates on training and workshop opportunities on campus.

 Facilities:

 Researchers have access to:

• State of the art technology including wireless network, access to software such as Microsoft office applications and hardware facilities such as laptops and laser printing.
• An inspiring workspace for contemplation and research.
• Comfortable seating.

Note: Users are free to bring their own laptops and are responsible for the safekeeping of their equipment. The user who checks out library equipment is solely responsible for its safe return in good condition and will be held liable for theft, loss or damage. Equipment will be checked in by the RC library staff member. Library staff will verify that the equipment was returned in good condition.

All students are required to submit their theses or dissertation electronically to contribute to the development of the University's Institutional Repository WiredSpace. The Research Commons offers support in the preparation of an electronic format of theses by converting it to PDF and writing it to CD. Students who need assistance with this process are welcome to contact the Research Commons to make an appointment with Andrew Chakane.

• Your thesis must be in completed and final form.
• Student must bring their theses/dissertation in electronic format (memory stick, external hard drive).
• 2 Empty CD's.
• The FINAL SUBMISSION OF THESES, DISSERTATION OR RESEARCH REPORT/PROJECT form completed by supervisor and student.
• Copy of fees office payment receipt.
• A copy of the payment receipt and the thesis/dissertation CD must be submitted to the Faculty.

The William Cullen Library, Wits East Campus, where the Research Commons is located.