Quiet Study Reminder – DML

Posted in Announcements

Now that classes are underway, we are seeing more use of Dahlgren Memorial Library (DML) spaces, primarily for studying. With more people studying, we are also receiving more reports of noise issues.

As a reminder, shared in orientations and past communications: except for the ground floor lobby, most spaces in the library are generally intended to be quiet study areas unless a program has been pre-announced (for example, TBL sessions on the 2nd floor).

Most complaints mention that students asked noisy groups to be quiet, but the noise continued. That is the correct first step. However, instead of coming directly to the IS Desk to tell us where the issue is happening, some are sending emails or chat messages. By the time we see those, it is too late for us to intervene.

Here is how you can help maintain a quiet study environment:

  1. Be considerate. Remember that DML is a graduate-level research library. Please respect your colleagues’ need for quiet study space.
  2. Try resources first. If noise distracts you, earplugs and noise-canceling headphones are available at the IS Desk. If that does not help, politely let the noisy group know they need to lower their voices.
  3. Report promptly. If the problem continues, come to the Information Services Desk immediately and let us know exactly where the noise is happening and what activity is causing it. Without that information in the moment, we cannot effectively address the issue.

Thank you – quiet, safe study space is vital to your education, and we do our best to help meet that need.