Library and Learning Resources (FYI)
THE FYI
ABOUT US
The FYi is our fully-equipped Library and Learning Resource Centre
Our state-of-the-art facilities have been carefully designed to aid your learning in a modern and comfortable environment. You will find a quiet, welcoming library stocked with all the books and magazines you’ll need, both for your courses and for leisure reading – we have lots of comfy chairs! We also have lots of computers and study space so you can complete your work in peace.
what we have
- Fully stocked library: Every genre fiction section
- Full range of nonfiction and course books
- Silent Study Area
- Black and white/colour printers
- Comfy chairs for reading/reflection
- 60 mac computers
- Own device area with chargers
- Online resources
what we offer
- Advice and guidance with studies
- Workshops
- Revision techniques
- Book recommendations
- One to one sessions with staff
- Research and referencing support
- Literary Champs Program
- Student Librarian Program
- So much more…..
We provide you with the best print and online content to help you with your studies and research
Meet the FYi staff

Debbi Hodson
Head of Learning Resources and Careers (Career Lead)
Qualification: Post Graduate Certificate in Careers Leadership. I also hold a National Professional Qualification for Middle Leadership and a Level 4 NVQ in Childcare and Education.
My current role involves managing both the FYi and Futures team and I am also one of the Student Safety and Wellbeing team members.
My favourite book is Desperation by Stephen King and I love climbing of any kind.

Helen Crowther
Library Manager
Qualification: BA Librarianship and MA Literature and the History of Ideas
I have been working at Blackpool sixth for over 30 years and have
I specialise in reading recommendations, research skills, essay-writing, study support, EPQ, learning conversations and so much more.
My interests include fungi, wild plants, veganism, how conspiracy theories develop and evolve, science, linguistics, textual studies, and developing students’ discursive skills.
Outside of college I am currently reading Great Hatred, Little Room - a history of the Good Friday Agreement in Northern Ireland.

Lyndsay Davies
FYi Study Advisor
Qualification: BA Honours Degree in History: Medieval to Modern. I went on to qualify as a Teacher of English as a second language.
I have worked at Blackpool sixth since 2019.
I currently specialise in critical analysis, essay writing and Research, and Referencing and provide support for students with revision. I also work with Helen to deliver workshops to classes around the college and I teach basic makaton to students.
Out of work, I love camping with my family and spending as much time outdoors as possible. I like to test my limits on a regular basis and I am a total movie and reading buff.

Julie Halliwell
FYi Study Advisor
Qualification: Certificate for Secretarial Linguists.
I have worked at Blackpool Sixth since 2000. In 2021 achieved an Open Awards Level 3 National Certificate in Cultural Awareness of the LGBTQ+ Community.
I attended training courses on Transgender Awareness and Working with LGBT Young People which has developed my understanding and skills, enabling me to lead the student LGBT+ Group since 2015. The group provides support and a safe space for the LGBT+ community as well as raising awareness.
Outside of college I play table tennis, and enjoy reading, as well as the occasional camping trip.

Gill Hellewell
FYi Study Advisor.
Qualification: BSc International Business & French from Aston University.
I have worked at Blackpool Sixth since 2006, but prior to that worked in major brands including Mars Confectionery and Bass Brewers. I love helping students to get organised and set study goals. I also recruit and train the Student Librarian and Youth Literacy Champ teams, who work alongside the staff to help us deliver our outstanding library service and get more students reading for pleasure.
Outside of college, I love travelling, reading and TikTok.
- E-resources
Free to all our students and staff!
24-hour access to all our e-resources, including:
- Hundreds of fiction and audiobooks
- Newspaper archives
- Philip Allan subject magazines
- New Scientist
- Vogue
- And much more!
All are available at Fyi Central.
- Study Skills
Find our Classroom in your mailbox for weekly activities
- Wellbeing
- Research
- Referencing
- Revision – Click here for some handy tips!
- Essay-writing
- Getting organised
- Time management
- Literacy for work and next steps
Come and see us in the Fyi for advice and support.
- Student Librarians
We have a team of Librarians who help us to provide our outstanding FYi service
If you are interested in volunteering an hour of your week email Gill Hellewell gill.hellewell@blackpoolsixth.ac.uk for more information.
- Useful Links
LGBT group
For more information click here
Email Julie Halliwell for more details: julie.halliwell@blackpoolsixth.ac.uk
Futures Careers advice and guidance at college:
www.blackpoolsixth.ac.uk/careers/
Email Futures for more details: futures@blackpoolsixth.ac.uk
Local Libraries
Need your local public library? Find them here:
- Opening times & contact
Monday to Thursday: 8.00am to 5.00pm
Friday: 8.00am to 5.00pm
Email: fyi@blackpoolsixth.ac.uk
Follow us on socials: @FyiBlackpool6th