Study Zones
We realise that students need different study environments. Some like to work with their friends whilst others prefer complete silence.
Therefore we have divided the library into distinct zones.
Please respect the guidelines for each zone. Occasionally we may suggest you move to a different zone if the nature of your study doesn't suit the area you have chosen.
Social Learning Zone
The Archibald Hay Mess has been designed with flexible and social working in mind. Here you can grab a coffee and work together with friends in a relaxed and informal environment. If you wish to connect to the internet or use MS Office applications, pick up one of the netbooks which are available for anyone to borrow and use within the library.
Food and drink is served from 10.30am until 7.30pm Monday to Thursday and 10am to 5.30pm on Friday. You are also welcome to consume your own food just so long as it’s cold. Sorry, but no takeaways or hot food is permitted. Outside of the catering hours the area is still open and hot/cold drinks and snacks are available from the vending machines.
Who was Archibald Hay?
A poignant story surrounds the naming of the cafe. On the evening of 3 September 1917, the Drill Hall was bombed. It was devastating and the bomb claimed the lives of 135 men; the largest single loss of life in an air raid within the UK during the First World War. At the tender age of 17½ years Archibald Hay was the youngest person to be killed. Read more about his story here.
Group Zone
This zone is located to the right of the reception area (as you walk into the library) and also includes the mezzanine area above reception and the upper level at this end of the library. Access to the rooms on the upper level is either via the stairs or the mezzanine.
Choose this zone if you wish to work with your friends.
In this zone you can expect:
- To work here in small groups
- To engage in normal conversation
- To use your mobile phone for short calls (ringtone set to silent)
Remember, if you want to practice a presentation or work as a larger group you can book one of our Practice Presentation rooms at the reception desk.
Quiet Zone
This zone is located in the central section of the library, from the reception area to the 2nd mezzanine.
Choose this zone if you wish to study in moderate noise levels.
In this zone you can expect:
- To work together in twos or threes
- To engage in short, quiet conversations
- To use your mobile phone for short calls (ringtone set to silent)
Silent Zone
This zone is located at the far end of the library towards the Pilkington building. The silent zone starts at and includes the 2nd mezzanine.
Choose this zone if you wish to work in complete silence.
In this zone you can expect:
- A silent place for individual study
- Others to respect your need for silence
- No use of mobile phones
