Wellbeing in the summer vacation

Many of our libraries have set up a quiet corner with activities to help you take a break whenever you need it, including colouring, jigsaws and origami. Find them at the following library sites:

  • Bodleian Old Library: in the Reader Common Room.
  • Education Library: on the coffee table.
  • Girdlestone Memorial Library at the NOC: on the wellbeing trolley.
  • Japanese Library: on the entrance level.
  • KB Chen China Centre Library.
  • Law Library: coffee table by exit.
  • Social Science Library: at the entrance.

The ‘Space for Reading’ is also available for everyone, in the public atrium of the Weston Library (Monday to Friday: 9am – 5pm; Saturday: 10am – 5pm; Sunday: 11am – 4pm).

A table display of books

Book swap at the Bodleian Old Library

 

Free guided tour of Harcourt Arboretum, Wednesday 27th September 12–1pm

Did you know Oxford University has its very own Arboretum?

Join Dr Lauren Baker for a relaxed and free guided tour of Harcourt Arboretum in all its autumnal glory. Discover rare trees from around the world within the 130 acre site (including some of the oldest redwoods in the country!) and keep your eyes peeled for fungi.

Whether driving or taking the X40 bus from Oxford’s Westgate (further directions to the Arboretum) join us for a free guided tour to stop, look and engage with nature.

Places are limited so early booking is recommended – sign up for your free ticket.

A view of trees showing autumnal coloured leaves - red, orange and brown

Harcourt Arboretum

Coffee Morning, every Friday at 10.30–11.30am

Join library staff, students and researchers at this lively and welcoming weekly event, held in the Centre for the Study of the Book inside the Weston Library. After time for chatting, there is a ‘show and tell’ of one or more of the fascinating items in the Library’s special collections. Tea and coffee provided.

Take a GLAM break

If you need a longer break, why not use your University card to visit a museum or garden? Wander round the Botanic Garden, immerse yourself in art at the Ashmolean, hang out with the dinosaurs at the Museum of Natural History, hunt for tucked away items at the Pitt Rivers Museum or marvel at the astrolabes at the History of Science Museum.

 

More upcoming wellbeing events will be posted on this page.

 


Wellbeing at the Bodleian Libraries

The Bodleian Libraries have run a wide range of activities to help support wellbeing for staff, students and readers. Check back to this page to find out about upcoming wellbeing sessions.

A border of colourful flowers

 

More support

More help and support is available during your time at Oxford: