Study Carrel Information

To apply for a study carrel, stop by the Library Privileges Office located adjacent to the Circulation Services counter on the first floor of the Main Library.

Library Privileges Office Hours: 8:30am - 5:00pm, Monday through Friday
Phone: (847) 491-7617
Email: Show e-mail

Study Carrel Policy

The Library maintains a number of closed rooms and open desks as assigned study carrels. Carrels are assigned to allow books to be charged to a desk within the library for an extended period. Library study carrels are reserved primarily for graduate students and faculty.

The demand for closed room study carrels far exceeds supply, and waiting lists are maintained in the Privileges Office. Only current faculty and PhD candidates may apply for closed room carrels. The average wait for a closed room study carrel is 8 months, but actual time may vary. Students must already be admitted to candidacy before they may be placed on the waiting list for a closed room study carrel.

Open desk study carrels are available to any graduate student or faculty member. Honors undergraduates currently writing a thesis may apply for an open desk study carrel only, on a space available basis, with a letter of request from their department or advisor.

Applications for new carrels, or for the waiting list, may be obtained from the Library Privileges office.

Regulations for the use of study carrels:

1. Assignments normally cover the academic year. In any case, all assignments must be renewed yearly. Failure to renew may result in removal from the carrel.
   
   
2. The carrels are for reading and research only and are not intended to provide office or conference space. Names must not be posted on doors. Mail and messages, other than overdue notices, will not be delivered to the studies by library staff members.
   
   
3. Keys for closed carrels will be issued upon receipt of a deposit of $25.00.
   
   
4. Studies are not soundproof and therefore should not be used for long conversations. Please use the available faculty and student lounges.
   
   
5. No furniture or equipment is to be moved from or introduced into a study, except by arrangement with the assistant university librarian for public services. Heating and cooling ducts must not be covered.
   
   
6. Damage to furniture or equipment and necessary repairs or replacements should be reported immediately to the library privileges office.
   
   
7. Smoking is not allowed anywhere in the library. Food and beverages are allowed only in the faculty and student lounges.
   
   
8. The university library cannot guarantee the security of personal belongings in any study space.