Utica University recently announced that the library will no longer remain open past 10 p.m., Sunday through Thursday, until further notice.
Katie Spires, coordinator of access services, said there are a myriad of reasons behind the decision.
“Usage was low between the hours of 10:00 and midnight, so when staffing issues became critical, it seemed the logical choice to shorten hours,” Spires said.
At this time, there are no plans to extend hours, even during finals week. However, if that changes the community will be made aware.
Although the building will close earlier, library resources remain available online.
“In terms of library resources, our collection of online databases containing both articles and e-books is great, and available at any time using the links on our library website, ” Spires said. “If a librarian’s help is needed, AskUs 24/7 is a text chat-based reference service available any time of the day and also linked on our homepage.”
Many students expressed disappointment with the change, particularly student-athletes whose schedules often prevent them from visiting the library during the day.
Emma Parker, a sophomore special education major and member of the field hockey team, shared her frustration.
“I’m an athlete, so we don’t really have much time,” Parker said. “I know a lot of football players go, and we do too—we go to the library at night because it’s the only time we get.”
Parker kept her request simple: “I love the library, keep it open,” she said.
Deanna Jackson, a junior health and physical education major and fellow field hockey player, said there is value to the late-night study environment.
“A lot of people are able to focus better in the library,” Jackson said. “It’s a quiet space that you don’t get in other places.”
Looking ahead to finals, Jackson hopes administrators will reconsider.
“They should at least open back up during the final season because that is when most people go to the library in the first place to study,” Jackson said. “If they don’t have a place to study, well then that’s not good.”
