Last semester we received several complaints about noise levels and food consumption in the library. We have consulted with HWUSA and have their agreement that the following guidelines will start from Monday 4 March:
1) The whole of the Library is for quiet work and study.
2) You have a right to favourable working conditions: please do point out distracting or inappropriate behaviour or noise levels in the areas in which you work.
3) If you are asked to make less noise you should observe this request. Those creating unacceptable noise or behaving inappropriately may be asked to leave the building.
4) New signage will indicate acceptable noise levels:
- Red: silent working
- Orange: quiet work-related discussion that does not disturb others working and studying in that area
- Green: normal talking permitted, bearing in mind that people around you are working. During exam study quiet talking will be requested
The new signage for noise levels will apply in the following areas:
- Green: Entrance floor
- Orange: Top floor and stairwells
- Red: Books floor and basement
5) Mobile phones should be switched to 'silent' within the library. Calls should only be made/ taken in Green areas. Only play music/videos on a PC or mobile device when using earphones. Skype calls should be made only in Green areas, and while using earphones.
6) Drinks (hot or cold) are permitted in securely lidded containers. Dewey's café and vending machines will now provide lids for all cups. Please ensure that you use them. Food may be consumed only on the Entrance level (Level 1), either in the café, or in the designated area adjacent.
As all food may now only be consumed on the Entrance level, we thought we should remind you that you may reserve your seat on the study floors for up to two hours. This should give you sufficient time to go to the Entrance level for a quick break. Please note that you should not leave anything valuable when you do go for a break; the University cannot be held liable for any loss or damage.
7) Everyone should leave their study space/table clean and tidy and is responsible for putting waste into appropriate bins
With the current configuration of the library building it is simply not possible to provide any more 'social' areas. These areas are available elsewhere in the University – for example in the Hugh Nisbet Building – but few other places are designated for quiet study. We need your help therefore to ensure that the Library's prime function is maintained.
Students requested these changes. Please do adhere to them.