Exam survival kits
The Bodleian Health Care Libraries would like to wish medical students the very best of luck in their upcoming Finals. We hope the library can provide a supportive and peaceful study space over the coming weeks, and to show our support, we’ve prepared a limited number of “exam survival kits”. These goody bags are available for finalists to collect free of charge from the Cairns Library helpdesk during staffed hours, on a first-come, first-served basis.
Examination couches
Preparing for OSCEs? The Cairns Library has two examination couches that medical students and other members of the University can use for practice. For details, email hcl-enquiries@bodleian.ox.ac.uk or ask at the library helpdesk.
Information skills workshops
The Bodleian continues to offer free information skills workshops to members of the University. These workshops feature courses specifically designed for students, researchers and staff in MSD, covering topics such as literature searching, science communication, systematic reviews, conference posters and reference management software. Sign up today.
Silent piano
In case you missed our previous update, the Cairns Library at the John Radcliffe Hospital has acquired a silent piano, available to play 24/7, with no advance booking required. Headphones and sheet music are provided, so why not give it a go!
Book clubs
Start the new year with a good book. The Bodleian Health Care Libraries run free book clubs at the JR and Horton General, and all MSD staff and students are welcome to attend.
All Oxford University Hospital NHS Trust and MSD staff and students are welcome to attend!
The next book club meetings will be:
- Monday 9 February – ‘Wuthering Heights’ by Emily Brontë
- Monday 9 March – ‘The Everlasting’ by Alix E. Harrow
Meetings are usually once a month on the third Monday of each month (excluding February and March 2026).
You can attend either in-person 12-1pm in the Beeson Room at the Cairns Library (Level 3, Academic Centre, JR Hospital) or 1-2pm online via Teams. The same book will be discussed at both sessions, so you will not be missing out by joining remotely. Visit the library’s events calendar for more information and to sign up.