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Study Space
Study Space
Study Space

Study Space

Jump to:

  • Study Space at Beacon Street
  • Study Space FAQ
  • Places to Study Off Campus

Study Space at Beacon Street

We have a number of different types of study space on campus. Some spaces must be reserved in advance. Study space is zoned by noise levels:

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Silent Study: No conversation is permitted in Silent Study zones.
  • Reserve a spot in the Kamens Center
  • Charles Side (upstairs)
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Quiet Study: Quiet conversation is permitted and expected, but volume must be kept low.
  • First Floor Library (Clausen, Lower Library, and Soltes Room)
  • Beacon Side (upstairs)
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Collaborative Study: Conversation is permitted and expected. These spaces are only available when not previously reserved; please check the digital calendars outside of the rooms.
  • Room 2501
  • Room 3202

Study Space FAQ

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What’s the difference between silent, quiet, and collaborative zones?

Silent Study zones (Upper Library, Kamens Center) are spaces where conversation - even whispering - is not allowed.

Quiet Study zones (Lower Library, Soltes Room, Study Rooms A and B) are spaces where whispered conversation is allowed, but volume should be kept low.  If you're listening to a lecture, then you need to have headphones in.

Collaborative Study zones (Rooms 2501 and 3202) are spaces where conversation is expected. However, we do ask that you use your "inside voices."

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There’s stuff in a study spot, but I haven’t seen a person there in awhile. What do I do?

“Camping out” to save a study space is not permitted. Library staff reserve the right to remove items that have been abandoned for more than 15 minutes. Please let a library staff member know, either via library@neco.edu, the chat at the lower right of this page, or in person, if this is a problem.

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I left my things at a study space to [eat / go to class / etc.] and they’re gone. Help!

“Camping out” to save a study space is not permitted. Library staff reserve the right to remove items that have been abandoned for more than 15 minutes. Please see a library staff member to retrieve your items. If after business hours, please see the College security desk.

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During exams, will all spaces be silent?

For all exams and exam study periods, ALL spaces will become silent study spaces, with the exception of room 2501, which will remain collaborative.

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Can I eat and drink in study spaces?

You may have quick bites and sips, but please do NOT have full meals in study spaces. The Community Commons is the best place for this.

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Which study spaces can be reserved?

As of right now, The only study spaces that can be reserved in advance are spots in the Kamens Center. All other spots are first come, first served.

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If I have a reservation at the end of the day, why can’t I stay until the building closes?

Our custodians and security personnel work hard to keep the spaces clean and safe for all of us. Please respect their time, and leave when your reservation ends and no later.

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I can’t make my reservation. What should I do?

Please cancel a forthcoming reservation if you know you won't be able to make it.  The confirmation email you received includes a link to use if you need to cancel.  If you cannot find it, or it's too close to your reservation start time, please email us at library@neco.edu to let us know, and we will cancel it on your behalf.

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How do I cancel a reservation?

The confirmation email you received includes a link to use if you need to cancel.  If you cannot find it, or it's too close to your reservation start time, please email us at library@neco.edu to let us know, and we will cancel it on your behalf.

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Who do I contact if I have a question or problem with my reservation?

Please email us at library@neco.edu, or use the chat at the lower right of this page.

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Someone is in my reserved spot. What do I do?

Please email us at library@neco.edu, use the chat at the lower right of this page, or talk to a library staff member in person to let us know, and we will ensure the spot is vacated for you.

Got a question that wasn’t answered here? Email us at library@neco.edu, or use the chat at the lower right of this page.

Places to Study Off Campus

In addition to the NECO Library, there are a number of other local libraries at which you can study.

The NECO Library is a member of the Fenway Library Organization (FLO), which means you can study at any of the other member libraries. Libraries include but are not limited to:

  • Emerson College - Iwasaki Library
  • Emmanuel College - Cardinal Cushing Library
  • Lesley University - Sherrill and Moriarty Libraries
  • Wentworth Institute of Technology - Schumann Library
  • Simmons University Library

Please note: Hours are subject to change without notice, and FLO member libraries may on occasion restrict access to their students only. Check member websites or call before visiting.

The Boston Public Library has 25 branches throughout Boston, including the Central Library, which is close to NECO's Beacon St. campus.