“Tonight, let’s go to Clem.”
“Ew, why? Let’s go to Alderman.”
This conversation comes up often when my friends and I decide on a place to study. Someone suggests their favorite library, but someone else argues for their preferred study spot. These frequent arguments sparked my interest in why certain people favor one library and what it says about them. Someone’s preference turned into a game to see if their taste in libraries somehow represented who they are.
If the same type of people love the same libraries, then these libraries start to form their own identities. Taking that one step further, libraries are like people, because they each have their unique history and personality. From my observations and personal experience, here’s my rundown of what your favorite library says about you:
Alderman: You adore tradition and grandeur, because the vastness of life — and Alderman — doesn’t intimidate you, but rather invites you to explore its past and everything it has in store for you. That being said, it’s easy for you to fall prey to laziness and fun when you socialize with friends randomly passing by in the main lobby. Lastly, a slight addiction to caffeinated drinks drives your highly ambitious temperament.
Clark: You are a slight introvert and aren’t the most outgoing person ever, but you have a fun weird side to you that many of your close friends cherish. You also enjoy knowing everything around you is in reach, because you’re either lazy and don’t like walking very much or are nervous about treading unknown territory. Finally, unsightly things like naked people running on the Lawn don’t freak you out too much, considering you walk by dozens of naked figures whenever visiting Clark.
Clemons: You are extremely social and love to mingle. Pretending to do work while keeping a not-so-quiet whisper is a hidden talent you possess. In addition to being an extrovert, you need a group of friends with you at all times. This place is perfect for you to procrastinate on a five-page paper assigned two weeks ago with your gregarious group of friends, because you think personal relationships are more important than grades.
Music: You’re either a really big hipster or a music major, but your unique style is what makes you stand out. You love it when people compliment your differences, and you don’t shy away from the spotlight unless it’s mainstream. Finally, it is not only a love of music but also your appreciation for the arts and undervalued things in life that attracts you to the Music Library.
Special Collections: You’re either a UGuide, love history or just want to get away from everything and everyone. The Special Collections Library is a haven for the introvert who loves to read thick, dust-collecting books and learn for the sake of learning. You tend to be nostalgic, your favorite playlist on Spotify is a “throwback” playlist and your favorite book is your high school yearbook.
These are only some of the 15 libraries on grounds, but there is no “right” library, because each one attracts its own characteristic group of people. As a first year, I have hopped from library to library in search of the best fit for me. I figured out I went to Clark in times of loneliness and long hours of studying, Clemons for when I wanted to meet up with friends and stay up late procrastinating and Alderman for when I wanted to grab some coffee while mingling with classmates or delve deep into the stacks.
As my personality and temperament are constantly evolving, my favor toward a library changes as well. So, if you ever want to learn more about someone, you should start off by asking their favorite library, because it may tell a lot about their personality.
Read More
How study abroad taught me to stop studying
By Grace Scott | 3 days agoTurns out, it took attending one of the most prestigious universities in the world for me to realize there's more to life than studying.
Collyn Clark reflects on Space Workforce 2030, building an inclusive space industry
By Carly Stender | 4 days agoClark said programs such as the SWF 2030 internship can serve as launch pads for a career in the aerospace industry.
The White Spot: an iconic diner etched in student nightlife
By Alexa Graham | 5 days agoThe White Spot is a timeless diner for Charlottesville residents and students looking for a greasy spoon infused with University spirit.
