Which library should you be studying at for finals?
We’ll help you find which library should be your new study spot
It’s finals again, the time when students are struggling and aim to remember ten weeks worth of material. To complete this task you should find the ideal study spot for you. Here is a list and description of libraries on campus to help you make that decision.
Don’t fear the basement: Science Library
Glass study rooms are the highlight of this library
Make your way down to the lower level of the Onyx Bridge and enjoy the cool brightly lit ambiance of the Science Library. Study between the books, in one of the study rooms or the quiet areas.
Location: Onyx Bridge, Lower Level
Pros: The Science libraries glass study rooms were created to promote groups to meet, study and work on projects. White boards are plentiful within the library and charging outlets are quite accessible. I would also rate the chairs at a high level of comfort.
Cons: If you fear being underground or are looking for a library for a nice view the science library will be hard to study in. The low hum of the air conditioner might be an annoyance if you don’t block it out with headphones or if white noise bothers you in general.
Explore the maze: Architecture and Allied Arts Library
Beyond the books and second story of the library there is a maze of secrete study spaces and stairwells.
For one thing the Architecture Building knows a thing or two about building a library. The main area features two levels but as you continue to explore this library you will find a third floor above it with many more study areas. The library almost feels like a maze if you can find all of the stairwells and nooks within this intricate library.
Location: 200 Lawrence Hall
Pros: It is a fun place to explore and discover new hidden away study areas among the books. The few group study rooms they have are tucked away from the rest of the library so you won’t feel as if a bunch of people are watching you. In general it has a nice library aesthetic, and also fairly quiet.
Cons: Certain parts of the library feel confined or even cramped and is not conducive to group work.
Feel like a lawyer: John E. Jaqua Law Library
If you are feeling upscale and study in a suit then this might be the place for you. The law library, on the second floor of the law building, is retrofitted with tables and chairs to make you feel as if you’re in the court room. The library in general has a professional feeling that will hopefully put you in the mood to get down to business.
Even the tables make you feel as important as a lawyer.
Location: 270 Law Center
Pros: Warm aesthetic feel with chairs and tables that make you feel important. If you’re looking for a place that is open and generally quiet then this is the place for you.
Cons: Study rooms and the fourth floor are reserved for law students only; when the law students are in the library they can get carried away with their work and be louder than expected.
Enjoy the openness: Global Scholars Hall Library
The openness of the GSH library is conducive to a louder environment.
This little open library near the entrance of the Global Scholars Hall (GSH) provides a nice atmosphere to gather with groups and feel unashamed of making noise. The natural light also allows for a nice open atmosphere. The second level also allows for some extra study space above the noise.
Location: 1710 E. 15th Avenue
Pros: Groups can meet and talk without worrying about disrupting others as the space is generally loud. The second level is a great place to study while looking down on the peasantry. I would also highly recommend the cushioned chairs. Also the family that lives next door are known to treat students to desserts and food on finals week of studying.
Cons: The noise level may make it difficult to concentrate. There are also few nooks and crannies so individual studying can tend to be difficult. If you don’t get the cushioned chairs you might be disappointed in the quality of the other chairs you are relegated to.
Find your floor: Knight Library
The natural light in the first floor is a nice aesthetic to add to your study experience
If none of the smaller libraries fit your fancy then you can always rely on the Knight Library to have a spot for you. With four floors there is always a place for you to go; the expansive windows on the south side allows for natural light to stimulate your study session. And if you can’t find an open spot at first, continue to scour the floors and stumble upon a nook to plop down and study.
The Knight Library is large place so find the floor that best suits you
Location: 1501 Kincaid Street
Pros: There is a floor for almost everyone. There are also writing tutors on the top floor to help you with your essays if you are in need. The first floor most of the other floors are quieter with not a lot of noise.
Cons: If you’re looking for a place to work as a group this is probably not the place unless you have reserved or can get your hands on an open room. The Knight Library is also a fairly busy place as it is frequented by many students daily so going back to your “normal” study area may not always be an option.
Hopefully this has helped you know where to find your new cozy corner or group meet up spot to help you excel in these times of suffering. Figure out which one of these fits you best and hit the books. Good luck on your studies!
Other information on the University Oregon Libraries can be found here.