Issue link: http://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/119308
University Libraries Park Library 407 Mount Pleasant, MI 48859 Late nights extraordinary Expansion Pro c to r i n g center ca ter s to s t u d ent s ��� need s It���s 1:35 a.m. and junior Hannah Opperman gulps an energy drink while glancing down at the green and blue highlighted page of her biology textbook. The glimpse of laptop light shines on her face, and the only sound filling the room is her fingers striking the keys.�� She is solving chemistry equations while most students are nestled in their beds. The biology major from Vassar finds studying late at the library a relaxing escape from the busy library environment during normal hours. Opperman says she is fortunate the university recognizes the need to have a quiet place to accommodate the night owls. ���There are fewer distractions, and it���s just me and my book,��� she says. ���I just operate better at night.����� Park Library responds to SGA extended hours request Student Government Association President Justin Gawronski says SGA conducted a survey that found students wanted the library open later. ���Many students just don���t have time to study until late in the evening,��� Gawronksi says. ���It���s great that CMU can accommodate those students.��� Crunch-time accommodations Associate Dean of Libraries Richard Cochran says he is grateful for Provost Gary Shapiro and President George Ross enthusiastically endorsing the initiative and providing added funding. ���In my view, the chief benefit of keeping the first floor of Park Library open until 2 a.m. is that a safe, convenient and comfortable study space for students is available when most other public buildings on campus are closed,��� he says. Access Services Specialist Laquodra Simmons says serving the students��� needs is rewarding. ���The students who are staying that late seem to be very appreciative, and that makes it worth it to me,��� she says.�� Junior Kevin White from St. Clair Shores says working at the Library Information Desk until 2 a.m. to accommodate students��� needs is a benefit for him as well. He utilizes the relaxed, quiet atmosphere to study. White says more than 100 students fill the first floor and extended hours study room after midnight. Nearly half are graduate students, and usually the same students are there each night. When mid-term and exam weeks hit, more students take advantage of the space to get their work done. ���When it���s crunch time, students use it,��� White says. Even if it���s until 2 a.m. in Park Library. ��