
Top 10 Study Spaces in UW Libraries
Layne J.
Published October 09, 2023
4 Minute Read
INTRODUCTION
With midterms and finals fast approaching, finding a great place to study can be challenging. 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, lie 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 features 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!
- STEP Tutoring is open Monday through Thursday, 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. To get the help you need, book an appointment through the Penji app!
- The Writing Center focuses 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!
- You can schedule a consultation through The Writing Center on their website.
- Library Coaches are available in person and online to help you find your research topics in the library
and library databases.
- Library Coaches are available via appointment. Desk hours for the Library Coaches are Monday and Wednesday, 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday, 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., or schedule an appointment online!
6. The Book & Bean
If you're looking for a place to grab a snack or get caffeinated, The Book & Bean
is the perfect spot! 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 feature 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 completing online classwork. 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 available for studying.
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.