Finding the Perfect Study Spot at Penn State Libraries
Read time: 3 minutes
Author: Megan Neely
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Introduction
The success of your study session can often rely on where the study session is held. Penn State Libraries are perfect because there are a multitude of study spaces that allow you to find a spot that fits your needs. These recommended and not recommended spaces are ranked based on three factors: Privacy, Noise Level, and Availability of Outlets. All of these spaces can be found at the Pattee and Paterno Library (Note: the Pattee and Paterno Library is one building and the differentiations indicate which side the of the library a space is located).
Why the Library is Better than Other Spaces
As previously stated, the library has a multitude of spaces that will fit your unique needs. When these needs are met, results will improve. Take time to consider what need when you study, try a few spaces, and decide which one is best for you.
Worst Spaces to Hold a Study Session
1. Schreyer Business Library: This space, found on the third floor of Paterno, is always incredibly busy and noisy. People often leave their trash everywhere. For these reasons, it may be hard to concentrate.
2. Starbucks: Starbucks is located on the first floor of the Paterno Library. This space is incredibly crowded at all hours of the day. There is also a lot of movement, which can be distracting.
Best Places for a Solo Study Session
1. Reading Room (Harry Potter Room): This is arguably the quietest place in the library. Not only this but there are tons of seating and plugs at every table. I don’t recommend this space for group study because it is so quiet. You may disturb other people’s study sessions.
2. Stacks: Every floor of the stacks, located in the Pattee Library, has single-person desks along the windows. This is a great space to study during the day. You can gaze out on campus as you flip through flashcards. Unfortunately, they do not have adequate seating for a group.
3. Education and Children’s Library: This space is not well known and is not very busy. Because of this, the space is very quiet. However, there is limited seating.
Best Places for a Group Study Session
1. Arts Library: This space is located on the third floor of Pattee West. There are a lot of large tables that are great for group study. If you don’t have to plug in your laptop, I recommend this space. Otherwise, I would find somewhere else to go.
2. Social Sciences Library and the Life Sciences Library: The Social Sciences Library (located on Paterno 2) and the Life Sciences Library (located on Paterno 4) have more seating and plugs than Paterno 3 and 5. While these spaces are not silent, they are quieter than Paterno 3 and 5.
3. Collaboration Commons: The collaboration commons are located on the basement level of Pattee. This space has ample seating and outlets but does tend to be busy during the day. The seating is also arranged for groups and you don’t have to be quiet in this space. If you can find a seat, I highly recommend this space.
Best Overall Study Space
Private Study Room: Private study rooms are the best place for any study session. They all have outlets, they’re all quiet, and they’re all private. This means there will be no distractions or technical difficulties. (To book a room, follow this link: https://libraries.psu.edu/services/rooms-spaces)
Other Libraries:
On Penn State’s University Park’s campus, there are four additional libraries: The Architecture and Landscape Architecture Library, the Earth and Mineral Sciences Libraries, the Engineering Library, and the Physical and Mathematical Sciences Library. Depending on the subject, these libraries may offer a more optimal study space.
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