Himmelfarb Library strives to offer study environments that meet the needs of all of our users. Sometimes space is needed to gather a group for study or collaboration. Sometimes a table with space to spread out is best and sometimes a cubicle in deep quiet is necessary for focus and intense study. You can find all these options in Himmelfarb Library.
First Floor = Group Study and Collaboration Zone
On the first floor you’ll find mostly open tables and some lounge areas. Because our main service desks are on this floor, the accepted noise level is quiet conversation. There are white boards on wheels for group activities and collaborations. There are also some public computer workstations as well as printers and scanners.
Second Floor = Quiet Study Zone
The second floor is the deep quiet zone. Even whispering is discouraged. There are mostly open cubicles for individual study on this floor and some open tables if you need space to spread out. If you are listening to music with headphones, please be mindful that they are set to a level that only you can hear. The second floor also has a number of study rooms for study groups. These rooms should be booked in advance and activities in the study rooms should not disturb others on the second floor; please be mindful of the noise level in study rooms.
Third Floor = Mixed Use Zone
The third floor has segregated spaces with separate uses. The main zone when you step off the elevator is a quiet study area with a mix of open and closed cubicles and study tables. To the right is the Bloedorn Technology Center and computer classroom space. This area is glassed in and though quiet is encouraged, there are activities occurring there that require conversation including the Body Viz Workstation and anatomical models. You’ll also find the School of Medicine IT help desk in this area. The third floor also has study rooms that can be reserved in advance.
If you find our quiet zones are not being respected and would like our staff to remind users, please reach out to us via IM, email, or phone (202-994-2962) during Monday-Friday business hours, or reach out to the Circulation Desk staff during other hours (in person or phone listed above).
