Library Etiquette

Posted this on VMD and thought I'd pass it along.  I have also nominated myself as the unofficial library sheriff, since there are so many infractions going on, especially from the first semester class.  I don't think I'll actually enforce anything, but I still want the badge.  So here you go:


I thought I'd lay out some constructive ideas about how to make the library more peaceful and efficient. So here we go:

1. SEATING:

Most people sit in opposite corners of a table, giving each person the maximum amount of room to create a work space.

X X O
_____
_____
O X X

Referring to the diagram above, please sit in the O designated spots. In the highly unlikely event that every table has 2 people on it, please begin filling the table at opposite corners. When one individual has begun studying in a corner, please do NOT sit directly across or diagonal. This dramatically reduces work space for you and the other person. Sitting on the same side is also discouraged, although not as offensive.

2. FOOD AND DRINKS:

Please do not bring crunchy foods as snacks. The library has a strict (unenforced) rule against food and drinks in the reading room. Stick to canned or bottled drinks and soft snacks. If you must, please eat crunchy snacks in the hallway. Also, do not bring meals into the library and proceed to chomp down while studying. Step outside, enjoy your meal, then come back in. Trust me, your books will not run away.

3. TALKING:

This is not a group study environment. Please do not talk and minimize whispering. The ICM rooms are great places to engage in group studies; the reading room is not. A quick 1 minute low-voiced chat with a friend is acceptable, but don't drag it on for 5 minutes. If you have a tendency to speak to your friends while studying, try sitting at a different table or using Skype to keep a conversation going.

4. CELL PHONES:

If you have a cell phone, please put it on silent or have it readily accessible in case it does ring. One or two rings is acceptable, but I really don't want to the hear "All the Single Ladies" for 3 minutes because you left your phone in your bag while you stepped out. Please be more considerate.

If you do take a call, please wait until you've reached the door to start using your "outdoor" voice. Whoever is on the phone can wait 4 seconds for you to make it to the door. They most likely won't hang up on you and if they do, it probably wasn't that important anyways.

5. UNATTENDED ITEMS

I believe leaving your stuff to step out for an hour or two is acceptable, even if the library does not. There is no pressing need to pack all your items every time you go to eat or relax for a bit. That being said, seat saving is a malicious and selfish act. It puts you above others and ruins all good will in our society. A kitten dies every time you save a seat for yourself and then peace out for 6 hours.

Secondly, if someone steals your precious seat next to the window or your favorite painting, life will go on. But some people are neurotic, so I'll let that one be.


I hope you all have a wonderful and pleasant experience in the library.

Thank you.