The first thing that comes to mind is the library; however, the library has a variety of different study spots in its building alone. There’s something for everyone, but what spot is the best?
The Gathering Place
The Gathering Place is located on the first floor of the library next to Starbucks. It has many seating options, including high-top tables, couches and comfortable chairs. This spot has a unique perk unlike other places in the library — it’s open 24/7, giving students a study spot at all times.
This tends to be a popular spot, especially if you’re grabbing a quick drink to go along with your study session. Because it’s right next to Starbucks, it can get noisy when business is busy. This space is great if you’re studying with a group. The ambiance cannot be beaten; one wall is full of windows while the other has mosaic wall art.
First Floor
The first floor of the library is lively as well. It has an almost completely open floor plan, with different forms of seating, adjustable for anyone. There’s a large study area with big windows that provides comfortable seating such as bean-bag chairs and cushioned chairs, as well as regular wooden chairs paired with numerous tables.
Outside of this room is the general library area, consisting of tables and chairs for everyone to use. There are also printers provided on this floor, giving students easy access if needed. It’s common for groups to study here, so it’s typical for there to be more chatting. There’s one study room on this floor; it’s hidden by the microfilm section and labeled study room 130.
Second Floor
The second floor is still a social area. With a wide-open “sunroom” with stained-glass art windows, there are tables and chairs with space to be with groups or on your own. There are several study rooms, all somewhat different regarding size and what the room contains. For example, one has a screen you can connect your computer to, and one has a sink. The computer lab is also located on this floor; however, there are many computers throughout the library.
Third Floor
The third floor is the most experimental in the entire library. It consists of a variety of different spots you can reserve, including large study rooms that are great for groups, as well as smaller study rooms. This also includes glass cubicles, which aren’t as private due to the lack of a ceiling. This can get distracting; however, it is an interesting mix of private and social study.
Fourth Floor
The fourth floor has many unique qualities compared to the rest of the building. The entire floor is designated a “quiet zone” and “no cell phone zone.” Going up to the fourth floor is almost eerie with how quiet it is, and you want to be sure not to be noisy. It is incredibly secluded.
The best spot can vary depending on what kind of environment you’re looking for. On a personal note, the best study spot in the library has to be the room with the stained-glass windows at just the right time. It has ambiance, is open enough so you don’t feel secluded, and at the right time provides enough privacy to limit distractions.
