Whether you’re preparing for midterms, working on a group project, researching an assignment, or looking for a quiet place to focus, finding the right study environment can make all the difference.
Here’s your guide to finding the perfect place to study at our Ottawa and Pembroke campuses!
Ottawa Campus Library: Find a Space That Works for You
The Ottawa Campus Library offers several study environments, whether you prefer studying independently or working with classmates.
Collaborative Space – Room C350
The Collaborative Space is designed for group work and low-volume conversations.
Individual study areas are also available, but keep in mind that this is not a silent study space. To help everyone stay comfortable and focused, audible audio is not permitted. Please use headphones and be considerate of those around you.
Need complete silence to concentrate?
Silent Study Room – Room C365
If you prefer a distraction-free environment, the Silent Study Room is the perfect place to settle in and focus.
This space is dedicated to individual study, and talking is not permitted. Even better, it’s accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week, making it a great option for early birds, night owls, and students with busy schedules.
Prefer a quieter study environment?
Collection Room II – Room C361
Collection Room II offers a quiet study environment with both individual and group seating. It’s also home to the library’s Reference, law, ESL, and children’s book collections.
A few things to remember:
- This is a quiet study space.
- Food is not permitted.
- Open Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Need your own desk?
Drop-in Carrels
Looking for a dedicated spot to work independently? Drop-in carrels provide individual desks for focused study.
They’re equipped with dedicated power outlets and USB-C charging, so you can keep your devices powered while working through assignments or studying for exams.
These spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Need access to computers and printing?
Technology-Equipped Areas
The library also offers technology-equipped spaces with desktop computers, printers, and charging stations.
These areas are convenient when you need access to campus technology for research, printing assignments, or completing coursework.
Looking for an accessible workspace?
Accessible Desks and Desktops
The library is committed to creating an inclusive learning environment.
Accessible workstations feature adjustable-height desks, ergonomic furnishings, and assistive technologies to support a wide range of accessibility needs.
These spaces help promote equitable access to studying, research, and other academic activities.
Working on a group project?
Student Meeting Rooms
Sometimes, the best way to get through a group assignment is to work together in person.
The Ottawa Campus Library offers bookable student meeting rooms on the second and third floors of the DARE District (Building C). These rooms provide an opportunity to collaborate, share ideas, and work through projects with classmates.
Check availability and find booking instructions through the library’s meeting room booking page.
Pembroke Campus Library: Spaces for Every Study Style
Pembroke students also have access to a variety of study spaces designed for individual work, quiet study, and group collaboration. If you have specific study space requirements, don’t hesitate to speak with Library staff. They’re happy to help you find a suitable space.
Prefer a quieter atmosphere?
Quiet Study – Main and Upper Levels
If you like a calm environment but don’t mind occasional quiet conversations, the library’s Quiet Study areas are a great option.
You’ll find Quiet Study seating along the window walls on the Main Level, as well as dedicated Quiet Study carrels on the Upper Level.
Low-level discussions are permitted, but audible audio is not. Remember to bring your headphones!
Need a completely silent space?
Silent Study – Main Level, Room 145
For students who need minimal distractions, the Silent Study carrels on the Main Level offer a dedicated space for focused, individual work.
No talking is permitted, making this an ideal spot for reading, reviewing notes, preparing for exams, or completing assignments that require extra concentration.
Looking for an accessible meeting space?
Assistive Technology Meeting Room – Main Level, Room 145c
The Assistive Technology Meeting Room is a Quiet Study space designed to support students with a variety of study needs.
Priority access is given to students registered with the Centre for Accessible Learning (CAL), although any student may book the room.
The space can be reserved for individual or group use and allows low-level discussions. To inquire about availability, speak with staff at the Library’s Main Desk.
Please note that bookings are tentative and handled on a first-come, first-served basis.
Need space to work with your classmates?
Group Study Rooms – Upper Level, Rooms 203, 204, and 205
Group assignments are easier when everyone has a place to meet!
The Pembroke Campus Library has three bookable Group Study Rooms on the Upper Level. These rooms are designed for group work and low-level discussions.
Whether you’re preparing a group presentation, reviewing course material, or brainstorming ideas for an upcoming project, these spaces offer an opportunity to work together.
Please note that these rooms are intended for group use, and single occupants are not permitted.
Check availability and find booking instructions through the library’s Group Study Room booking page.
Make the Most of Your Campus Library
With so many study options available, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your library experience:
- Choose your environment: Decide whether you need silence, a quiet atmosphere, or a collaborative space before settling in.
- Bring your essentials: Pack your laptop, charger, headphones, notebooks, and anything else you’ll need.
- Plan ahead: Book meeting rooms in advance when possible.
- Be considerate: Respect the noise expectations of each space and remember that everyone is working towards their own academic goals.
- Ask for help: Library staff can help you find a suitable study area or answer questions about available spaces.
Your study environment can have a big impact on your productivity, focus, and overall campus experience. Whether you’re studying solo, collaborating with classmates, or preparing for your next big presentation, the Ottawa and Pembroke Campus Libraries have spaces to help you succeed.
So, grab your study materials, find a spot that works for you, and make the most of your campus library this November!
