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Studying in the libraries

Newman and the branch libraries offer a number of different study spaces for individuals and groups. The branch libraries tend to be quiet spaces, while Newman has floors designated for groups to work together.

Learning Commons

The large open space adjacent to the second floor entrance has been designated an Information Commons. In addition to tables for work and study, computers and power outlets for laptops are available throughout the space. Equipment for viewing or listening to media is available for use (checkout headphones from the Circulation Desk). A large screen television is available for viewing news programs. Recent issues of local and national newspapers are shelved here. The English Departments's Writing Center operates a satellite program called Night OWL to give assistance with writing assignments on evenings during the fall and spring semesters.

Quiet floors

The third and fifth floors of Newman Library have been designated quiet study floor. Individual study carrels dominate these floors, though tables are available in limited numbers if you need to spread out. We ask that patrons be self-policing of the quiet policy; often reminding loud groups or individuals is enough to have them quiet down or move to a group study floor.

Group study floors

The second and fourth floors of Newman Library have been designated group study floors. Large tables dominate these floors, though individual carrels are located in the Stacks around the floors. While there is less of an expectation of quiet on these floors, we still ask that phone conversations take place in stairwells to minimize annoying others.

Group study rooms

Group study rooms with conference-style tables and chalkboards are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Two are located on the second floor, and four are located on the fourth floor. The one on the fourth floor closest to the main elevators is equipped with a large screen monitor that users can connect to their laptop to practice presentations or to collaborate on a project with others.

• Study rooms were developed for student study in the library, and are not available for university seminars, meetings, or other activities.
• A group is three or more students.
• Study rooms are not reserved.
• There are no time limits on the use of the study rooms.
• Anybody can use a study room if it is vacant. If a group study room is occupied by one or two people and a study group of three or more arrives later and wishes to use the room, the group has precedence over one or two people for use of the room.
• At times library staff may post signs indicating that a study room is reserved for a special library instruction session that can't be accommodated in the regular classroom.

Graduate study room

Newly renovated, the Graduate Study Room (416 Newman) is a space reserved for graduate students to study and relax. Access is limited through the Hokie Passport, which must be swiped before the door will open. (If your Hokie Passport does not open the door, contact the Graduate School.)

Lockers are available for free checkout. Stop by the Circulation Desk on the 2nd floor to reserve one.

Coming soon: Study café

Now under construction in the former lobby space on the first floor is a study café that is expected to open late in the fall semester or early in the spring.