With midterms and finals fast approaching, finding a great place to study can be challenging
at times. At UW Libraries there are many places to catch up on your classes and get
ready for upcoming exams. This list of the top 10 spaces to study will help you find
the perfect space, whether you are studying with friends, needing a quiet space, or
maybe even studying with some help from a mentor!
1. Study Pods
These fun little spaceship pods on level 3 and 4 of Coe Library are meant for quiet
studying. Enjoy some privacy and relax in comfy chairs for a peaceful and productive
study session! Pro-tip: bring your headphones and listen to a lo-fi study playlist to keep you going.
2. McMurry Reading Room
Whether you like to sit in a nice rocking chair, lay in the window bay, or need an
aesthetically pleasing study space, the McMurry Reading Room has you covered. This
room is on a group study floor of Coe Library (level 2) but incorporates comfort and
beautiful lighting to give your study sesh some dark academia vibes.
3. Geology Library
If you have never visited the Geology Library I would suggest doing so. Normally a
very quiet space, this library houses two study rooms, computers, tables, and comfy
chairs. This is a fantastic space for a quiet study space, especially if you need
to switch it up a bit! It’s located near the Classroom Building, so it’s a great spot
if you have classes on that side of campus. Hours for the Geology Library are from
8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.
4. Group Study Areas
Coe Library Levels 1, 2 and 5 have great areas to study with friends as these are
all group study floors. These have multiple seating arrangements, such as tables,
booths, and rooms to fit everyone’s needs. Not only do you not have to worry about
finding a place to sit, but talking with friends or peers is not a problem.
5. Student Learning Commons
STEP Tutoring, The Writing Center and Library Coaches are all part of the Student
Learning Commons in Coe Library.
- STEP Tutoring gives specific tutoring for specific classes. These are in person sessions to help
you understand your classes better!
- The Writing Center focusses on making you a better writer. Whether you need help starting a new paper
or just some editing done, the staff are there to help!
- Library Coaches are available in person and online to help you find your research topics in the library
and library databases.
6. The Book & Bean
If you are looking for a place to get a snack or get caffeinated, The Book & Bean
is the place to go! Located at the main entrance of Coe Library, this space has multiple
tables to relax and enjoy your snack while knocking out some homework or a good book.
The Book & Bean is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
7. Study Rooms
Every level in Coe Library has multiple study rooms. These come equipped with a whiteboard
and tables to accommodate any studying. Some of the rooms also include webcams, computers,
large screen monitors and videoconferencing software. You can reserve a room online or head to the Help Desk on Level 2 for more details.
8. Computer Labs
Levels 1, 2, and 3 house computer labs for all students to access and use. These are
great for research, printing, or getting some online classwork done. They can be used
individually, and a handful are set up for group use! This is a great way to knock
out those group papers or projects for the semester.
9. Tables
A great simple way to study is to sit at a table and utilize the space completely.
Throughout the stacks and levels, there are multiple tables to study at! Both quiet
and group study floors utilize these old-school study spaces.
10. Private Carrel
If you don’t know what a carrel is, it’s a quiet study cubicle with a desk and a great
place to sit at on Coe Library levels 3 and 4. Not only are they very private, but
they can block out distractions! Perfect for folks looking for something to help get
in the concentration zone!
Conclusion
Whether you need a computer, group study area, or a quiet workplace, the Libraries
has many options to suit your needs. From the McMurry Reading Room to the Private
Carrels these are all great places to have your next study session in! Coe Library
is open later than regular business hours, and open on weekends. There will also be
extended hours for the Coe Library before and through Finals Week starting December 4th.
