The public libraries of Singapore (visit www.nlb.gov.sg for more information) are the most known and popular to Singaporeans. Opened daily from morning/afternoon till 9pm at night (with exception of public holidays), the public libraries would make a good place for studying too. Once upon a time, studying was not allowed in the public libraries. Genuine users of the libraries had complained that with these studying students conquering the libraries, they were hindered from making good use of the library materials and resources. Alternative areas for studying were recommended to students, like the community centres. Today, the public libraries have accommodated these studying students. However, the priority for the use of tables, chairs and other items in the library would be given to genuine library users who need to refer to the library materials.

The fee to become a member is affordable, in fact, very affordable. Membership fee is only S$10.50 per year. To register, bring along your passport and student pass (with at least a remaining validity for 3 months). Then you can borrow 4 books for a period of 21 days. If you would like to borrow DVDs, VCDs, CDs, video tapes and CD ROMs home, you would be required to pay an additional fee of S$21.00 per year. As a Premium member, you will be allowed to borrow 4 such audio-visual materials for 7 days.

Foreign students who give the public libraries a miss are simply missing out on a huge opportunity to a world of good books and places for research. Yet it is unfortunate that many foreign students do not take full advantage of the public libraries in Singapore. So my advice to you is simply this - if you are going to study in Singapore, for heavens’ sake, be a member of the National library. (visit www.nlb.gov.sg) (PS. By the way, I am not getting paid by the library board for this article. Just want you guys to study smart and effectively.)