US Academic Commons Now Open

The highly anticipated Upper School Academic Commons in Taub Library was opened to the public Wednesday morning. Originally scheduled to be completed in early 2019, the renovated space opened its doors ahead of schedule, just in time for final exam prep. As soon as the blue tape was removed, students immediately took over the space and began utilizing its many new features, including:

• Twelve group study rooms: you can write on the tables with erasable markers, and by January there will be marker boards on the walls
• Silent Reading Room: a quiet room for individual studying with hardwood floors and a beautiful stained glass window
• A selection of different types of table seating for individual or group work
• Many comfy chairs for studying or enjoying a good book
• Individual study carrels: a specific request from 2016-2017 Student Affairs Council representatives who were consulted in the original design plans
• Genius Desk with both research and technology help
• Standing desk area (with stools) for those who need to print something or are tired of sitting
• Atrium: bleacher-style area in the Science Building, which is not yet open but should be available for classes, club meetings, and studying in when students return after winter break

Click on the video for a visual tour of the new Academic Commons.