Why I Don’t Hate the Library

Upon initial glance of the article so unforgivingly critical of the St Andrews Library, I found myself feeling quite distressed. Despite being a simple second year, I have long enjoyed its wonders for an abundance of reasons. Whether it’s the chance to make the most of the never-ending supply of (albeit sometimes overwhelming) heating, get some actual work done or indulge in some serious people watching, the attraction to the library certainly has multiple facets.

Firstly, I will not accept any kind of critique of the ground floor aficionados, a crowd to which I very much belong. Yes it may be a lovely setting to sit back and ponder last night’s spoils with friends, discussing matters such as exactly how many Sambuca shots were consumed in the Vic last night (at £1.10, can you really say no?), but bring a set of headphones, some calming music and you’re on your way to a great day’s work. If you don’t approve of such a contented crowd then feel free to vacate the area and trundle up to the fourth floor where I’ve heard dreams go to die. (For the record, they are very much made on the ground floor, in case anyone was wondering.)

To the criticism of the library café, I have just one word, nay, one concept for you: the mocha. On sampling the library’s answer to the intelligent idea of a sweet treat and caffeine hit simultaneously, I think you’ll find that they more than come up trumps.

Finally, the silent floors. They can be tough to hack; however comparing the cubicles to prison cells is perhaps taking it a bit too far. It seems to me that they are a less intimidating environment than the open areas, as you most likely won’t find yourself locked into a weary war with your neighbours over who is working harder or typing more loudly, a game that can become pretty vicious during exam season. However, disregarding this, and with the merry combination of the generously sized tables and the excellent chance of a game of one of my favourite past times: people watching (don’t judge me, I know you all do it too), I think we can agree that done correctly, a date with one of the silent floors is the dream.

Love or hate it, labour in it or watch others labour, we all know that we will eventually grace the library’s presence, as reminded to us in the consequential point of the article attacking this sacred institution: “the worst part of this studious hub is that I will inevitably find myself there.” Therefore, the only remaining solution is to embrace your inner library lover and come and join the party. (On the ground floor, of course.)

Image courtesy of: http://goodbooksforyoungsouls.blogspot.co.uk/2011/02/vintage-library.html