Josh and I met with Rachel Cheng, the University Librarian today to discuss options for extending the Library hours offered during fall and winter terms.  The “24 hour library” issue has been brought up by several administrations and we’ve seen minimal change over the past few years.  The most recent attempt that can be noted is a 24 hour extension that was given 3 years ago during exam week.

Despite the personal need I have found for a study space available 24 hours a day, Student Government has heard the demand for a 24 hour study space for many years.  For those that have utilized the 24 hour lab in the late hours know that the space as well as the environment do not meet the current demand, and I see no reason why any student should have to go to Denny’s to have free wi-fi 24 hours a day.

I left the meeting today incredibly hopeful that we will be able to have the basement of the Library open 24 hours the week before and during exams.  We are currently waiting to get cost estimates from the Library as well as ICT to determine exactly how much this will cost, and how much Student Government will need to contribute.

If we are given these two weeks (which I believe we will be) it will be our job to promote the heck out of the new extended hours.  If we can show administration that there is a need for this, then it will provide the proper leverage for us to obtain a 24 hour facility throughout the semester.

This campaign fits perfectly with the University’s goal to change the campus climate and get students back at EMU when they are not in classes.  If this effort proves successful we can push for other facilities like the Rec IM to have longer hours as well.