UW Libraries Blog

March 23, 2021

Individual Study at Research Commons Open 3/30!

UW Libraries

What to Know Before You Go:

UW Libraries is excited to announce that Individual Study Space @ the Research Commons (on the ground floor of Alllen Library South) will officially open for spring quarter on Tuesday March 30th!  –  in a limited capacity to start – Tuesdays 9-5 and Wednesdays 1-5. As this is the first Libraries space to open, reduced hours/days will provide essential time for learning and observing how the space is working, and inform any adjustments that may need to be made as we work to expand hours, services, and spaces as staffing permits.

A New Space, A New Experience

The original Research Commons (RC) has been completely reconfigured for individual study (not collaborative study) and COVID safety standards, so before you go, get familiar with the changes and know what to expect: 

  • See new RC Policies. This new space is for quiet, individual study vs. collaboration/group study and the space cannot be used during active verbal discussions in online classes, meetings, or other online activities, or to engage in phone conversations.
  • Reservations must be made in advance through the Libraries online reservation system. (1 reservation per user, per day, 2 hours max). 
  • A Husky Card is required for entry (space is only available to current UW students, staff, and faculty).
  • All public health safety protocols for cleaning, social distancing, and face coverings will be followed. Study stations will be cleaned between each use.
  • WIFI will be available.
  • No printing, scanning, or library computer stations at this time; however Libraries will consider adding more services and equipment based on assessment of student needs , after the space is opened.
  • No food or drink.
  • Books/physical materials are not available in the RC, but you can continue to request items through Libraries No-Contact Pick-UP service.
  • Research help is not available in the RC, but you can continue to get help using our AskUs Service or by contacting your subject librarian.

A First Step

This is the next step in the Libraries reopening plan. As we observe and test how this space is working to meet student needs, additional hours and resources may be added.  Health and safety remain our number one priority, and the efforts of each of us are critical in protecting ourselves and each other. This first step will inform the Libraries approach for opening additional spaces with more complex requirements. 

Why Research Commons?

  • The size, ground floor location, and floorplan is conducive for managing COVID protocols in a way that prioritizes the health and safety of all users.
  • The Research Commons space does not have access to physical books that would conflict with resource terms of service that expand access to electronic materials critical for remote learning at this time.
  • Starting with a smaller space as a “first step” provides a manageable and safe way to evaluate student needs and health and safety requirements.

We look forward to welcoming students back into the Libraries! As we evaluate next steps in the Libraries reopening plan, the Libraries continues to offer a wide range of tools, resources and online help to support remote and hybrid learning. Let us know how we can help! Just ASK US! 

The most current information and updates on Libraries re-opening plans can be found on the Libraries COVID update page. 

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