As a part of Albion College’s Together Safely plan for the Fall 2020 semester, administration made many adjustments to promote social distancing on campus. One of these adjustments includes socially distant study areas. .
Whether it is an old space that has been updated or a new space that has just been introduced, there are numerous spaces on campus where students can get out of their dorm, put on a mask and get some studying done.
Science Complex Atrium
At the crossroads of what used to be four individual buildings, Norris, Putnam, Kresge and Palenske make up the Science Complex Atrium. The atrium offers multiple spaces for students to study safely with its large open space and natural lighting.. In addition to large gaps between study spaces, chairs and tables are placed against walls to limit the number of close passerby.
The Science Complex, including the atrium, is open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Sunday.
Kresge Hallway Lounges
In addition to the atrium, the Science Complex has other study spaces to offer, some of which can be found in the hallways connecting Kresge to Putnam. Like the atrium, these spaces existed before the Fall 2020 but have been slightly adjusted to reflect social distancing.
Though these lounges receive heavier passerby traffic than the atrium and offer less space to socially distance, the cozy atmosphere and scenic view of campus offer a peaceful spot to get work done. The available outlets in the lab table also gives students the opportunity to work while plugged in.
The Science Complex, including the hallway lounges, is open 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Sunday.
The Stockwell-Mudd Library Bridge
The bridge connecting Stockwell Memorial to Mudd in the Stockwell-Mudd Library was previously a site supporting both group and solo study sessions. In the age of COVID-19, the bridge looks much different
In the spaces where four person booths used to occupy, there are now single booth seats facing the wall to limit any potential contact between studying students and passerby. Similarly, tables that once held two chairs now only host one seat.
In addition to these adjusted seats is the isolated study pod, which was moved from Mudd to the bridge. The pod contains a seat surrounded by plastic barriers to minimize distractions, an adjustable table top, a desk lamp and outlets.
The Mudd library, including the bridge, is open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Mudd Library First Floor
Another classic study space that has been adjusted to reflect social distancing is the first floor of the Mudd library. Like the bridge, this space was previously an area suitable for large group study and individual study.
For the Fall 2020 semester, seating options have been removed and furniture has been distanced to accommodate secluded studying. A set of four campus computers are still available for use but are offset on table islands from each other to maximize distance between students.
Though this is a popular space for studying, the large space and distanced furniture ensures safety while studying, even during the library’s busiest times.
The Mudd library is open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Serra Dow Center
New to campus this semester is the Serra Dow Expansion of the Dow Center. In addition to a new fitness center, wellness center and multi-purpose gym, the Dow now houses a study lounge consisting of tables and chairs, booths and lounge chairs.
Stickers are placed onto sofas to indicate that they are off limits, a single chair is placed for every table and only two students are allowed per booth to facilitate social distancing.
Though the space offers easy access to study areas for athletes active at the Dow, all students are welcome to take advantage of the new resources.
The Serra Dow Center, including the study spaces, is open Monday through Thursday from 6 a.m. to 12 a.m.; Friday from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
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