Laney College Library Spring 2026 Newsletter

Welcome! Here’s your Spring 2026 library update—full of helpful services, new books, and free online classes designed to support our students' success this semester.

Free Tax Assistance for Students & Employees

Laney College Library is partnering with EBALDC to offer free VITA tax-prep appointments. IRS-certified volunteers can help you prepare and e-file your taxes at no cost! Book an appointment: www.ebaldc.org/vita-for-laney-college.

Free Online Library Research Classes (Open Entry All Semester)

All classes are self-paced, non-credit, and great for first-gen students, ESL/multilingual learners, returning students, or anyone who wants stronger research skills and to strengthen digital literacy.

LIS 511 — Research Basics: learn how to search smarter using library tools, keywords, and strategies to find credible sources fast.

LIS 512 — Evaluating Sources & Citing: spot reliable, up-to-date sources, integrate them ethically, and build confidence with MLA/APA citations.

LIS 513 — Advanced Search & AI Literacy: use subject databases, advanced filters, and learn responsible ways to use AI for brainstorming and research.

How to Enroll & Get Help

Register through Campus Solutions. If you need help, just email the library!

Meet Our Spring 2026 Library Interns

Meet our new intern, Linnea Patterson! Linnea comes to us from San José State University's MLIS program and brings a wealth of experience from her work with Project Literacy at the San Leandro Public Library. She is eager to help cultivate a library environment at Laney that is both inclusive and inspiring for all learners. A true Bay Area local, Linnea spends her free time hiking, practicing various fiber arts, and hanging out with her two cats.

We are thrilled to welcome Gina Mik to the Laney College Library team! A former middle school English teacher, Gina is currently completing her final semester of the Master’s in Library and Information Science program at San José State University. In addition to her studies, she serves as a project manager for the Kenya Libraries Project, supporting school librarians abroad. Gina is eager to bring her passion for education and literacy to Laney this semester to support our students' success.

Hello everyone! My name is Kim Lin, and I’m excited to join Laney College as a Library Intern this semester.

I am currently pursuing my Master’s in Library and Information Science at San José State University. Fun fact about me: I began my higher education journey at City College of San Francisco, where I earned an associate's degree before transferring to complete my bachelor’s degree at San Francisco State University, all while working full-time. The affordability, support, and strong course offerings at community colleges played a major role in my academic path, and I am grateful for the opportunity to now give back in a community college setting and meet other students and faculty within the Laney community.

In my free time, I enjoy exploring the Bay Area’s culinary scene and traveling in search of new adventures and experiences. Feel free to say hello if you see me around campus!

Books Display — Come Visit!

We’ve added lots of new titles and different monthly theme displays all over the library—great reads, academic resources, and more. Stop by to see what’s new!