Libraries

Graduate Commons

The Graduate Commons is a space dedicated solely to graduate students and post-docs. Located on the 5th floor of the Du Bois Library, it is intended to be a quiet, scholarly workplace for graduate students and post-docs to work. The Graduate Commons is open and accessible to graduate students and post-docs all hours the Du Bois Library is open.

Eligibility

Only currently registered graduate students and post-docs are eligible to use the Graduate Commons.

Access

Entry requires a valid UMass Amherst graduate student or post-doc UCard. Please submit an access request if you need access or are having problems accessing the space with your UCard..  Those using the space must not provide access to unauthorized users (i.e., anyone who is not a registered graduate student or post-doc). The Libraries have the right to suspend access privileges for people who provide access to unauthorized users.

General Guidelines

  • Graduate students and post-docs using the Commons are expected to be considerate of their peers. Anyone disrupting the work of others may be asked by their colleagues to cease activity or leave.
  • Noise should be kept to a minimum. Cell phone booths are available in the Library on floors 2 and 3 and the Lower Level.
  • Earphones should be used when listening to audio, at a volume that is inaudible to others.
  • The Libraries are not responsible for personal items. Please do not leave them unattended.
  • Be considerate of others. Avoid bringing odiferous food into the Commons. Clean up after yourself when you leave the Commons.
  • Library materials left in the Commons will be removed and reshelved daily.

Group study rooms

There are two group study rooms that can accommodate up to 6 graduate students.  These group study rooms can be reserved by registered graduate students for a maximum of 2 hours per day, 2 times per week (total of 4 hours per week).

There are additional study spaces available for reservation in the Learning Commons at Du Bois and on the second floor of the Science & Engineering Library. A reservation is required.

Printing

  • Graduate students can send remote print jobs to the copier near the Commons. The remote print client may be downloaded and installed from the links on the right.
  • The cost for printing is the same as the printing in the Learning Commons.
  • To report printer problems, please contact the Du Bois Library Information Desk (413.577.0840).

Emergency and personal safety

  • You are required to leave the building when the fire alarm is activated.
  • Report threatening behavior to the Du Bois Library Information Desk (413.577.0840).
  • Emergencies: Call 911 from a campus phone or 413.545.3111 from a cell phone.

For questions about this policy and use of the space, please contact Jennifer Friedman.