The best Cambridge University libraries for all your revision needs this Easter term

Easter term, for many people, can be an intense and frantic rush to try and revise three years worth of content in three weeks. Work/life balance can swing out of control, especially if you are eating, sleeping, revising, and socialising in your room. If you need to revise somewhere other than inside those same four walls, here is a list of suggestions of libraries to revise in:

If you want somewhere cosy: University Library South Reading Room

If you are someone who wants to curl up somewhere on a sofa with a nice cup of tea, this is the study space for you.

Whilst the University Library overall may at first appear to be an intimidating fortress, it turns out that it is possible to find comfort there, and there is always the cafe to fuel your caffeine addiction. This quiet haven is perfect for those days where classic English weather gives you pouring rain in May.

Opening times: 9.00-19.00 on weekdays, 9.00-16.45 on Saturdays, closed on Sundays.

If you want lots of sunlight: Zoology Library

Despite Easter term being the only term where we get the joys of British Summer Time, week five will often find many students hibernating under the covers, surrounded by flashcards and abandoned revision timetables, having not seen daylight in weeks.

If you find yourself in dire need of sunlight and Vitamin D (much like those plants you’ve been trying to keep alive), the large bay windows of the Zoology Library and its circular layout will have you thriving in no time. This library is accessible to any University of Cambridge students, but you may need to kindly ask the librarian to let you through as most student cards will not grant you access.

Opening times: 8:30-17:00 Monday-Thursday, 8:30-16:30 on Fridays, closed on weekends.

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Image Credits: Eleanor Wallace

If you came to Cambridge to romaticise your life: Haddon Library

When you tell people to imagine a Cambridge library, this is what they will picture. The Haddon Library, located on Downing Site, is comprised of a gorgeous blend of rustic wooden bookshelves, desks for studying, beautiful bay windows and the general aura of academic grandeur.

The large desks are perfect for silent study alone or with friends, although the only slight issue is that these often get filled up quickly, particularly in exam term, but overall a beautiful library.

Opening times: 9.00-17.00 Monday-Friday, closed on weekends.

Image Credits: Eleanor Wallace

If you need a caffeine or sugar boost: University Library Tea Room

I am not going to promise a culinary masterpiece or a transcendent cup of coffee that changes your life forever, and if that is what you are looking for then you are probably going to need to spend a lot more money.

But if you want a good value panini or cake to help you through those last minute cramming sessions, or if background chatter helps you to concentrate, this is the place for you. You are also very welcome to bring your own food in here if you just want a change of scene or break from studying that still feels somewhat studious.

Opening times: 9.00-18.30 Monday-Friday, 9.00-16.20 Saturday, closed on Sunday. The cafe is only open 9.00-15.00.

If you are ready for the corporate life: Squire Law Library

Found in the centre of Sidgwick Site, this geometric glass structure screams corporate lifestyle. The library has multiple floors, and can be loud at times, but generally has a very studious atmosphere that will hopefully motivate you to get that essay done.

It is open to all Cambridge University students, but often seems quite imposing. Just walk with confidence and you will be fine!

Opening times: 9.00-20.45 Monday-Friday, 9.00-17.45 Saturday, closed on Sundays.

Image Credits: Eleanor Wallace

If you want to be surrounded by plants: Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies Library (FAMES)

This library may not be insanely incredible at any one thing, but it does everything pretty well, and also has some beautiful plants.

It is a relatively large library so there is usually plenty of space, ranging from large shared desks to comfy sofas, and a massive added bonus is that they give out free tea, coffee and biscuits during exam term!

Opening times: 9.00-19.00 Monday-Friday, closed on weekends.

If you need a nap: English Faculty Library

After all that studying, you are bound to be tired. The ideal spot for a nap is the beanbags found in the English Faculty library. You’ve earned it.

Opening times: 9.30-19.00 Monday-Friday, 11.00-17.00 on Saturday, closed on Sundays.

Feature Image Credits: Leah Whiting

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