This Spring, UTA Libraries is inviting students to participate in one-hour focus group sessions to understand how we can improve our spaces, services, and collections. Session participants will be provided with a free lunch and will have the opportunity to opt into a prize drawing, with chances to win UTA gear or a massage at the MAC. To be eligible, students must attend and participate in the whole session. 
 
“The focus groups are really an expansion of the conversation we started in the fall,” Jennifer Lane, Director of Grants and Assessment, said. “We heard a lot through the survey, and now we want to dive deeper into that feedback so our Libraries leadership can make informed, impactful decisions.” 

 How to Get Involved 

 Students can sign up for a session through the UTA Libraries Student Focus Group Sessions form. 

 At its heart, “Your Voice Matters” is exactly what its name promises, a commitment to listening, learning, and growing together. 

 “We really hope students see this as a chance to create meaningful change,” Lane said. 

 UTA Libraries looks forward to continuing the conversation and to welcoming students to the table this spring. 

From Survey Responses to Real Conversations 

During Phase One, students, faculty, staff, and members of the public shared valuable insights through the “Your Voice Matters” questionnaire. That feedback revealed clear themes, areas where many respondents shared similar experiences, needs, or concerns. Phase Two is designed to explore those themes in a more personal and conversational way. 

Each session will bring together a small group of students in a welcoming environment, featuring guided discussions and opportunities for open sharing of ideas. The goal is not just to collect opinions, but to learn how UTA Libraries can better support researchers, learners, and innovators across campus. 

Sessions Designed with Students in Mind 

 
UTA Libraries will host four in-person student focus group sessions at the Central Library, all beginning at Noon and lasting one hour. Lunch will be provided, making it an easy way for students to take a well-deserved study break while making their voices heard. 

 Session dates include: 

• Undergraduate Student Session 1: Jan. 21
• Undergraduate Student Session 2: Jan. 28
• Graduate Student Session 1: Feb. 4
• Graduate Student Session 2: Feb. 11 
   

All undergraduate and graduate students from any college, department, or school are welcome to participate. Spots are limited; students are encouraged to sign up quickly. 

“Ultimately, this process helps us answer important questions,” Lane said. “Where are the opportunities for meaningful change? What makes certain issues important to our users? And how can we respond in ways that truly serve our community?”