Training & Support


Technology Centers

Virginia Tech has developed many services to enhance students' technological development. Below are centers that can greatly augment your computing and learning experience.

University Libraries
The University Libraries' website, http://www.lib.vt.edu/, provides you with access to books, journals, and information about all the libraries' collections and services. Addison is the online catalog of library holdings for Virginia Tech. The physical collection consists of more than 2 million books, 6 million microforms and 4 million government documents, and over 8000 videos. The online collection includes more than 200 electronic indexes plus approximately 68,000 electronic books. There are nearly 40,000 journal titles available in either paper or electronic formats.

For assistance in finding information that you need for your classes see the Library staff at service points on the first floor of Newman Library, in the library tower (adjacent to the bridge to Torgersen Hall), and at the branch libraries. There are maps of the library and regularly scheduled tours to help you become familiar with the resources that are available to you. You can also use your computer to access LiveRef for real-time contact with a reference librarian. Your college librarian is available should you need help using resources specific to your major. In addition, there are subject specialists for every discipline on campus.

InnovationSpace
The Virginia Tech InnovationSpace (formerly called New Media Center) is a multimedia computer lab open to the students, faculty, and staff of Virginia Tech, as well as the local general public, with the mission of providing assistance through free and open access to software, hardware, and specially-trained staff. InnovationSpace offers a 28 station open lab, 3 special use classrooms, video project room, and 3 A/V bays equipped with the latest in multimedia hardware and software. Digital still cameras and standard-definition digital video cameras may be checked out on a first-come, first-served basis. Call or come by the InnovationSpace to check for availability. Well-trained staff members offer support in web development, desktop publishing, graphics, video, audio, and much more.

Computing Labs
Campus labs offer an opportunity to use specialized software that the student may not wish to purchase, but may need to use for a specific assignment. Contact your college or department for more information on computing resources they offer. In addition, the Computing Center operates several computer labs for the faculty and students. Many of the labs offer both PCs and Macintosh machines, and many of them have scanners and other equipment.