Over the past few weeks, I have been spending more hours than I can count in the library. It’s just that time of the year. Reports are due, exams are coming up, everyone is trying to catch up on the weeks of readings they pushed off (whoops) (don’t worry mom, I’m obviously not talking about myself).
Growing up, my parents, teachers, and principals have always instilled and taught me the importance of a few basic library etiquette rules. Unfortunately, it has come to my attention that not everyone is as familiar with these rules as I expected them to be. So here I am trying to lay out some of the unspoken rules for you so that everyone’s library experience can be a little less stressful.
Rule #1: Chewing Gum
There is nothing more aggravating than trying to read and take notes from your textbook when all of a sudden, the person next to you starts to chew, snap and crack their gum. Loudly chewing your gum is not only distracting to everyone around you, but the sound is pretty nauseating as well. Next time, maybe try some mints.
Rule #2: Listening to Music
Walking through the library, one can find rows and rows of people with their earphones plugged in while they tackle their assignments.
There is absolutely nothing wrong with listening to music in the library, but when I’m sitting 5 people away from you and feel like I’m at the Rihanna concert because your volume is on max, it may be time to turn the sound down a bit.
Rule #3: Talking / Whispering
Typically, a normal day at the library consists of bumping into 5-8 people that you know. It is always great to see your friends, but there is a time and a place to start gossiping with your besties, and unfortunately, the quiet section of the library is not the place.
On that note, whispering is a great way to be respectful when in the library, but “loud whispering” definitely does not count. If you wish to talk, simply move to a different study area.
Rule #4: Eating
If you spend hours on end in the library, you are bound to get hungry, but there are some foods that a person should avoid while studying in the quiet section. Foods like chips, celery, and even carrots are crunchy and simply cannot be eaten in silence. Opt for foods that are less crunchy, and overall, less distracting to everyone around you.
Rule #5: Sniffling
Around this time of year, it seems like every other person has a stuffy nose. If you happen to be one of those people who is running down with a cold, I promise nobody will be mad if you blow out your nose. Next time you go to the library, bring some tissues!
Overall, one of the most important rules while in the library is to be respectful. Everyone is there for a reason, and many people rely on the library to be a quiet place to get their work and studying done. So, on your next trip to the library, remember to be mindful of those around you and help make everyone’s experience in the library a little more enjoyable!