This opinion article is in response to Courtney Holmes’ article “Ablah Library is not the best place to study.”

We are in the home stretch – one week until we are free of classes for the semester and will have to face finals.

In preparation for my finals, I know where I will be going: Ablah Library.

Sometimes I need to study in a quite environment without the distractions of home. I get more accomplished when I’m in a different, neutral space.

Every time I have been to the library, usually later afternoon to late, I have pleasant encounters with friends and strangers, students and non-students.

I’m fine making my way from my car to the library because of my awareness of vehicles traveling through the parking lot, although some drivers tend to be a little reckless.

I’m definitely not saying we should make the library students only, but I think all library visitors should review the standing guidelines on proper library use.

I know that student workers don’t allow non-students to use the library after 10:30 p.m. and check IDs to make sure only students can utilize the library during the last two weeks of school; non-students are encourage to use the 24-hour study room.

As for regulations for who gets in the 24-hour study room, “The room is available on a first-come, first-served basis and contains eight workstations, six study tables and vending facilities. For your safety, the room has been equipped with video surveillance and two emergency phones with direct connections to the Campus Police station” (libraries.wichita.edu) so it’s anyone’s game on who gets a computer or table.

If they are sleeping (due to exhaustion I would presume), I would suggest either letting them rest, or politely asking them to move to an available table so you could use that computer.

I find it easy to focus on my studies at the library, although others may goof off. When I listen to my music, it helps tune out the surroundings, although sometimes, I study on the third floor when I need that earth-shattering silence.

I’m all about helping those in need and providing a space to study, research and work on assignments is the best way to help.

Bottom line is, everyone in the campus community and outlying Wichita community should be glad that the Ablah Library offers not only great Internet access, study rooms with white/chalk boards (if reserved) and comfortable lounge spaces, but also resources that some students and community members would not have otherwise (try doing an online assignment without reliable internet, or a computer for that matter). It’s good to know that Wichita State University serves the Wichita community by making Ablah library a PUBLIC library.