Five things to ‘check out’ at Durham College libraries

Beyond borrowing books, Durham College’s (DC) libraries are a hub of resources and services to help you excel on assignments and prepare for exams. From finding a quiet place to study to researching information to picking up loaned equipment like a laptop, the college’s libraries are ready to help you succeed.

Perfect study spaces 

The Oshawa Campus Library has four floors and boasts more than 700 study spaces with options ranging from private group study rooms to silent rooms for those concentrating on solo work. The Dixon-Alger Fireside Reading Room is a scenic spot to relax and focus, especially on a chilly winter day. The room features an electric fireplace and a two-storey glass wall overlooking Polonsky Commons and the reflecting pool.

Located next to the Computer Commons on the Whitby Campus, the Whitby Campus Library is the perfect place to go when you need to collaborate with peers or finish an assignment. It has a mix of soft seating, open seating and study carrels ready to welcome you. 

Research and citation help

DC librarians can help you take your assignments to the next level. Simply use the askON chat for research help or help with using citation guides. Click on the ‘click to chat’ button on the library’s website or text 289.460.2275.

Subject librarians can also help students find resources specific to their program of study. Book an appointment online with a subject librarian or check out the research guide listing useful resources for each DC program.

Accessibility services

To support all individuals, Campus Libraries provide equitable access to a full range of services, resources and facilities. For example, our libraries offer more than 15,000 books through the Accessible Content E-Portal as well as access to adaptive technology including Kurzweil 3000 and Zoomtext in the adaptive technology workstation at the Oshawa campus library. There are also adjustable height tables in the quiet study zones. Visit the library’s Accessibility webpage for more information.

Digital resources

The library has a plethora of online resources that can be accessed any time of the day. Dozens of online databases are available to students covering everything from science to business to the culinary arts. Students can also access journals, ebooks and streaming videos via the library’s website. Streaming resources include more than 5,000 documentaries, animations and short films from the National Film Board of Canada as well as video and radio programs from the CBC Archives.

Equipment and course material loans

Forgot a phone charger? Laptop on the fritz?  Dabbling in podcasting? Head to the library. Cables, computer and recording equipment, headphones, 3D printing tools and even board games are among items available for loan from Durham College libraries. Loan times vary by item from three hours for a laptop to two weeks for podcast recording equipment.

Textbooks and other course materials are also available for one to three-day loans.

For more information about DC libraries visit us online.


10 campus spaces every student needs to know

Welcome to Durham College. School isn’t just about classrooms. Here, we have a vibrant campus culture, filled with ways to enhance your college experience. From cozy nooks to bustling social spaces and everything in between, let us show you some of our favourite spots on campus that make DC the place to be.

  • The Library

    Location: Oshawa and Whitby campus
    Whether you're looking for a quiet spot, a group study room, or just want to curl up by the fireplace, DC’s Library is your place. Need help? Knowledgeable staff are available to answer all your questions.

    Learn more

  • Campus Store

    Locations: Oshawa and Whitby campuses
    If you need something DC-related, the Campus Store has you covered. Textbooks, supplies, DC clothing to show your #DCpride and lots of other awesome swag – it’s all there waiting for you.

    Learn more

  • Campus Recreation and Wellness Centre (CRWC)

    Location: Oshawa campus
    Have some time between classes? The state-of-the-art CRWC is where you can find your fit, with features like a fitness centre, dance studio, elevated indoor jogging/walking track and more.

    Learn more

  • Marketplace Lounge

    Location: Oshawa campus
    The newly upgraded Marketplace Lounge is the perfect place to kick back and chill with your pals. Plus, the cozy seating and chic décor create Instagram-worthy backdrops for all your selfies.

  • Computer Learning Commons

    Locations: Oshawa and Whitby campus
    Need a printer? Check. Private tutoring room? Check. Technical support? Double check because our helpful Service Desk staff have you covered.

    Learn more

  • Campus Health and Wellness Centre

    Location: Oshawa campus
    Find ways to keep healthy at the Campus Health and Wellness Centre, located inside the Campus Health and Recreation Centre. Benefit from your own support squad with DC’s comprehensive team of professionals including physicians, nurses, mental health professionals and wellness coaches.

    Learn more

  • Esports Arena

    Location: Oshawa campus
    Player 1 has entered the game! Try the latest games and consoles with friends between classes in the state-of-the-art Esports Arena.

    Learn more

  • DC Spa

    Location: Oshawa campus
    We all deserve some pampering once and a while. At the DC Spa, you can relax and recharge with a massage therapy treatment, makeup application or esthetic service and support student learning!

    Learn more

  • Pantry

    Location: Whitby campus
    With delicious, ready-made assortments prepared by DC culinary staff and students, Pantry is about to be your new favourite stop at the W. Galen Weston Centre for Food.

    Learn more

  • Outdoor Classroom

    Location: Whitby campus
    Who says learning has to be indoors? This interactive space inspires creative learning in the fresh air. Located alongside DC’s fields, its also a common area for meeting and social gatherings.

    Learn more

Ready to discover more of DC? Book an in-person or virtual tour today.


Five ways to get involved on campus this fall

Fall is an exciting time at Durham College (DC). It’s an opportunity to get involved in the campus community, make new friends and discover everything the Oshawa and Whitby campuses have to offer. Here are a few ideas to get you started and make the most of your campus experience.

  • 1. Fall Orientation

    New to DC? Throughout the month of September, there are several activities and events scheduled to welcome you to campus. DCFest, movie night and the Get Involved and Services Fair are just a few of the fun ways you can immerse yourself in DC’s campus community and meet other new students.

    Still learning the campus? Keep an eye out for ASK ME volunteers wearing branded T-shirts who are stationed throughout both campuses to help you with directions.

    Learn more

  • 2. Varsity Sports

    Gather a few new friends and cheer on the Durham Lords! From softball and volleyball to basketball and rugby, there are many opportunities to show your #DCPride courtside.

    Don’t miss the annual Campus Cup on September 5 as the men’s and women’s soccer teams take on Ontario Tech!

    Learn more

  • 3. DC Crew

    Get involved and contribute to the campus community, while gaining practical work experience and developing their skills! Made up of student volunteers, the DC Crew supports a variety of areas – from helping incoming students at Orientation to sharing their experience on DC’s social media channels as student content creators.

    Learn more

  • 4. Campus Recreation

    When you feel great it helps improve your studies. Explore all the options available to you through the Campus Health and Wellness Centre, including intramural teams, sports clubs, health programs and services and even free fitness classes!

    Learn more

  • 5. Student Clubs

    With more than 60 student clubs at DC, you are bound to find one that is a fit for you. From gaming to the arts to cheerleading and philanthropy, these clubs are created and managed by students just like you who are looking to connect with others who have similar interests.

    Learn more

Need more ideas? Check out this extensive list of ways to get involved at DC.


Have questions about student life at DC? Our student ambassadors are here to help.

Whether you’re starting a new educational journey or returning to school to boost your skills, you probably have questions about what life is like at Durham College (DC). To help, we’ve lined up a number of current students who can answer your questions about campus life, the best study spaces on campus, opportunities to get involved in extracurricular activities, support services available to students or even academic workloads in different programs.

Our ambassadors offer valuable insights and guidance and can help you make an informed decision about your educational journey. By connecting with them, you’ll gain a better understanding of what it’s like to be a student at DC, discover the resources and opportunities available to you and get a sense of the vibrant and inclusive community that awaits you.

Who is it for?

The Student Ambassador program is for anyone considering DC. We understand that making a decision about your education involves multiple perspectives, so our ambassadors are here to provide authentic insights and answer any questions you may have.

Who are the ambassadors?

Our team of student ambassadors is made up of more than a dozen current students from various Faculties and programs at DC. They represent DC’s diverse student population and they are enthusiastic, knowledgeable and ready to share their unique perspectives and experiences with you.

How does it work?

Connecting with an ambassador is easy!

Step 1: Set up your account online.
Step 2: Choose an ambassador.
Step 3: Send a message!

Let us show you how you belong at DC. Connect with a student ambassador today!