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Law Library Suggestions and Feedback Spring 2022 : Food and Noise

Food and Noise

Food in the Law Library:

We often get an equal amount of requests for both allowing food/snacks in the library and requesting we keep the policy of 'no food' in place. We will be keeping this policy in place for several reasons:

1. We have found that eating in the library is often a major distraction for others that are studying. Loud crunching, sipping, and odors have all been the source of complaints reported to the Law Library staff. Even a snack as innocuous as an apple can be very loud when eaten in the library while something like Doritos has a strong smell that affects the ability of others to study.

2. Trash and food leftovers attract bugs and mice. These are the enemies of a print collection and a welcome and attractive study environment. By keeping food out of the library, we keep the space much nicer for everyone.

3. We also obviously want to avoid spills and accidents.

There were some suggestions for a single area allowing food within the library. We continue to explore this option.

Noise near the Quarles and Brady Room:

Several students noted that the hallways and stairwell near the Quarles and Brady room can get loud with people passing by. We'll address this by adding additional signage that this is a quiet area and that the sound carries. We also offer free earplugs at the Circulation Desk - just ask and the staff will provide a pair for you.