Admittedly, I spend an unhealthy amount of time in the Walsh library—I’m basically there every day. Honestly, I can’t even remember the last day I didn’t make a trip there. It’s gotten out of hand, to the point where those who know me best can almost predict where to find me at any given time. “Shocker,” they’ll say when I tell them I’m there.
But following the announcement about the Walsh Library renovation, I figured there was no better time to share why I believe the library is the best place to be on campus, coming from someone who practically lives there.
I’m almost always on the second floor of the library—it's like my second home. What appeals to me the most about it in comparison to the others is how open it is. Already cramped by due dates for assignments, projects, and everything in between, the spaciousness of the library is something I really appreciate—I feel that it allows me to do my best work. Furthermore, as an English major who is constantly writing, I also find the monitors on the second floor to be so helpful for my schoolwork. The larger screens make managing tabs, documents, and files much easier than on the school-provided laptops, and the keyboard makes writing long essays feel seamless.
Although I’m rarely on the third and fourth floors, they are nice options as well. When I don’t feel like seeing anyone I know, or when I really need to “lock in” on my schoolwork, the quieter, higher-level floors are perfect for that. In addition, (when they’re not fully booked) the library’s study rooms are also really nice, especially when working with friends.
When I’m not being an “academic weapon,” the library is also where I enjoy socializing with people. Some of my fondest memories have been in the library, whether they’re on the second floor or in a study room. I have also met new people and made friends while being in the library, and I always enjoy catching up with people I don’t see regularly.
Of course, it would be wrong to talk about how great the Walsh Library is without mentioning the Dunkin’ that’s connected to it. Whenever I’m in the library, there’s a good chance that I’ve had something from Dunkin’—and I’m not the only one. After all, it only makes sense that the best coffee option on campus is connected to the best place on campus (don’t come after me, Starbucks lovers, but it's the truth). Regardless of where you stand on the Dunkin’ versus Starbucks debate (or if you, for whatever reason, swear by Jersey Mike's), having a food option so close to the library is definitely a bonus.
Take it from someone who spends countless hours in the library: it’s the best place on campus for much more than just studying and schoolwork. I am so grateful for the Walsh Library, and even feel that I would not be who I am today without it (hyperbole, of course, but you get the point).
Zachary Mawby is the head editor for The Setonian’s Sports section. He can be reached at zachary.mawby@student.shu.edu.
