Graphic By Brian Yip ’24/The Choate News
I would assume that most Choate students have a favorite spot on campus, whether it’s a spot to study independently or to hang out with friends. For me, this coveted location is the Andrew Mellon Library.
Libraries have always been one of my favorite places. I grew up in my local library, spending every weekend picking out and reading books. I have always felt comfortable spending time there, surrounded by all the books and kind librarians. In fact, I spent so much time in the library that the librarians and I were practically on a first-name basis.
Now, as a Choate student, my love for the library hasn’t dimmed a bit. However, my relationship with the library here is completely different. For convenience, I mostly read books on my Kindle now, so I don’t really go to borrow physical books. Instead, I spend most of my time in the library studying and doing homework. After taking on the workload of a sixth class in the winter term, I started to spend more time there, quickly familiarizing myself with the staff and resources. Getting used to the demanding workload was difficult at first, but I quickly discovered that I needed a quiet place to focus and get all of my work done. Just like that, the Andrew Mellon Library became my favorite spot.
In the library, there are two spots where I absolutely love to do my homework. The first is in the Quiet Study Area, which contains a side room with several desks. Fully immersing myself in the quiet of the room, I always choose the same desk: it’s near a window and houses an iMac computer. The natural sunlight, along with the silence, helps me focus and get my work done. This is a stark contrast to other spots on campus, such as Lanphier Commons or the SAC, which tend to be busy and noisy during the school day.
I also like to study in the library basement in one of the small rooms with two desks that you see right after coming down the stairs. Although I love the library basement, I prefer studying in the first floor location. Something about the lack of windows in the basement makes me feel tired and trapped, making it difficult to be productive. After all, a basement isn’t exactly the most engaging learning environment.
To sum it all up, I truly love the library. It’s a cozy environment for studying and relaxing, complete with a multitude of books to read. As a day student, the library kind of serves as a home base for me. I can take a second to unwind in one of the comfortable arm chairs, but I can also use it as a productive workspace — the library is my happy medium. If you haven’t before, I encourage you to use the library. Though it’s a large physical building, I feel as though it’s one of the School’s hidden gems. If you ever see me in the library, at my favorite desk or in the basement, feel free to wave, and I’ll be sure to return the favor.
