The build-up to exams can be a very stressful time. To help with this, the University has an ‘Exam Wellbeing’ webpage full of helpful tips and advice, and offers support to address any challenges you may face.
The webpage includes a range of workshops available from the University Counselling Service & supportive resources, such as Podcasts.
Want to talk to someone during this stressful period? Take a look at the University’s Welfare & Support webpage, for information on how to contact:
Try one of our Mindful Activities
Take a break from studying in the SSL and try one of our mindful activities:
- We’ve got supplies for mindful colouring and origami on a table in our entrance area.
- There is a jigsaw on the table in our comfy seating area (behind the library PCs). Stop for a break and put in a few pieces.
Bodleian Libraries Wellbeing in Trinity Term Events
Take a look at the Bodleian Libraries Wellbeing in Trinity Term webpage for other libraries offering mindful activities and events taking place this term.
Photo copyright of Bodleian Libraries
Alpacas at the Radcliffe Camera, Wednesday 17 May, 1–4pm
As part of our initiative to support wellbeing across the University, the Bodleian Libraries will be hosting a small herd of alpacas (and a llama) on the Radcliffe Camera lawn, on the afternoon of Wednesday of Fourth Week (17 May). Go along and pet them, it’s a great way to de-stress and take a break from your desk!
Open to all Oxford University staff and students and Bodleian Reader cardholders – no need to book, just turn up.
Take regular breaks
There are plenty of places to get food and drink close to the library:
Manor Road Café
Serves hot food and drink:
Mon – Fri, 8:30am to 3:30pm
Vending Machines & Microwave
Café closed? There are vending machines located at the back of the balcony on the First Floor. There is also a microwave available for you to use there.
Water Fountain
Located behind the main building Reception desk.
Missing Bean Cafe
Serves hot drinks, pizza, sandwiches, pastries and homemade cakes.
Level 2, St Cross Building
Mon – Fri, 8:30am to 5pm
Manor Road picnic benches
Picnic benches are located at the front of the building, if you wish to sit outside.
Want to eat & drink while you study?
Although food is not allowed in the library, you can bring in bottled water and also hot drinks (as long as they are in a reusable cup with a lid).
Pop-Up Book Display
We’ve also got a pop-up book display, around the corner from our issue desk. The display focusses on beating stress & encourages you to take a study break & get outdoors.
Find inspiration for local walks via books & flyers (some are directly from the SSL & some around Oxfordshire). There are also titles exploring how nature heals us.
All the books are library use only, so please return them to the display after browsing.
Take a break outside
Above are some examples of green spaces close to the SSL. Want to take a trip out of Oxford for a walk? See below for some inspiration.
Woodland Walks close to Oxford
Two contrasting woods are a short bus journey away – with a single ticket fare of £2 on all buses until 30 June 2023:
- Harcourt Arboretum – beautiful woodland glades, wildflowers, and peacocks.
(Free entrance with your University Card.)Cross the road with care as it can be very busy, and follow the footpath into the Arboretum.
Wytham Woods – 1000 acres, 500 species of plants, and great views across Oxford.
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Turn back up the road the bus has travelled down, and walk into the village.Before you reach The White Hart Pub, turn right and then right again.Follow the private road up the hill until you reach the main entrance into the Woods.