If you are anything like me, when the semester starts, you hit the library hard. Before class, after practice, on the weekends—you are there. Your commitment to the library is on a steady upward trajectory…until you hit a wall. Now, the thought of stepping foot in the library brings you sadness and maybe a bit of pain. To avoid this much-dreaded library burnout, here are three study spot alternatives to help mix up your daily routine.
- Your local coffee shop.
Not only is there an endless supply of coffee and tea, but your local coffee shop will have the perfect balance of white noise and privacy. Sure, there is a chance that you will run into a friend or professor, but when you have your headphones on and are completely focused on your upcoming essay, everybody will recognize that now is not the time to bother you. Plus, when you get tired, you can always hop back in line for a delicious muffin.
- A nearby art museum.
At Williams College, this art museum is the Clark. Free to all Williams students, the Clark boasts beautiful, quaint indoor and outdoor study locations that are nestled between creations from some of the most famous artists in the world. A place like the Clark will naturally be a great place to study, as it already commands a quiet environment from those viewing the art. The Clark is located about 10 minutes from campus, so the short walk provides a nice escape from the campus we see every day. After a long day of studying, I always like to treat myself to a walk through the exhibits, seeing what has been added since my last visit.
- Outside
With winter finally coming to an end, I could not be more excited to finally get back outside. To find an acceptable balance between my desire to sit under the sun and my need to study, I like to finish any class readings at the picnic tables near my dorm. Not only does the time pass quickly, but I also get to see plants, squirrels, birds—everything that hasn’t been available for the past 4 months. One note of warning I will give you, however, is to wear sunscreen. There is nothing worse than returning to your dorm after a long day of work to find your entire body burned to a crisp.
The library serves a very unique, important purpose. If you need to start and finish a ten-page essay in one night, it’s the place for you. I have found, however, that when I overdue my time in the library, I dread going back. To help the library keep its allure, I mix these three locations into my daily routine.