Atlantis writes...

"I am having a difficult time finding a place to study in quiet. Even at the library in the quiet area I still find myself distracted by students talking. I have been looking at earplugs and even noise cancelling headphones. Do you have any suggestions?"

Gunnar responds below...

I can sympathize with your frustration and I have two suggestions. As I mention in the book, I certainly do recommend noise-cancelling headphones. The brand I suggest is Bose, but those are pretty expensive. Sony has also recently introduced some, and the Sharper Image carried a pair for a few years now. Do some quick shopping around and try them on if you can. Earplugs are certainly cheaper but I don't enjoy the sensation of wearing them, nor do I find them as effective.

My other suggestion is that you (and perhaps one or more like-minded students who can corroborate one another's experiences) confer with your librarian about your problem. If the quiet area is not being maintained, request (politely demand) supervision of the area. It's not your job to maintain quiet so don't fall into the trap of becoming The Sillence Police. You've got studying to do.

It is your right to have a place to study in the library. If you are not receiving quiet, that's like not receiving books. Would any credible college library not have books? Remember, you are a client of your school, and the school should be pressured to supply your needs. If a diplomatic approach doesn't help, you might write a quick letter to your school newspaper. You can do it anonymously. But I would urge you to get over any bashfulness and take it to the next level: ask professors whether they would be willing to co-sign the letter with you. Surely they would be disappointed and even indignant to know that students have no comfortable place to study. At a minimum, ask for their advice. They may have particular stroke with the library.

I would also suggest that -- if it doesn't have already them -- that the library create a couple of free-standing signs that say:

The new signs should reinforce the quiet area rules. See how the chatty Cathys like them apples.

Best,
Gunnar