Esher’s LRC: A Hub of Resources, Support and Expertise
For the past 20 years, Jo Canessa has led the Learning Resource Centre (LRC) at Esher Sixth Form College, bringing her experience from the Army Library Service. Under her guidance, the LRC has become an indispensable resource for both students and staff.
With a dedicated team of eight staff members, the LRC is more than just a place for borrowing books. It’s a vibrant centre for study and research, housing 205 PCs across LRC1 and LRC2, offering students space to quietly work.
Students have access to academic articles and journals through Library Search (the LRC’s Online Public Access Catalogue), which connects them to resources available in print or through online databases like JSTOR, ProQuest, and Learning on Screen. The LRCs virtual library is accessible both on and off-campus.
Jo and her friendly team are always available for one-on-one research support, guiding students to the best resources and suggesting helpful materials.
Jo said “If we don’t have a book or resource students need, they can always put in a request. We often buy in books which students request. This helps us grow the library with books our students are interested in and save the students some money buying the book themselves!”
For tougher questions, Jo provides expert advice and research assistance, ensuring students have what they need. Students can reach her easily via Teams or email.
The LRC also provides photocopying, scanning, and binding services, as well as a small stationery shop for everyday needs.
Jo has encountered all kinds of requests over the years, including one English student asking, “Do I have to read the whole book?” Regardless of the question, Jo’s goal is always the same: to help students access the resources and guidance they need to succeed.
