By Olivia Lewis, Contributing Writer
With the weather freezing cold, and finals rapidly approaching, students of every major seem to end up in the same place: the library.
Melissa Peterson, director of the RIC and library services for ten years, said that during extreme temperatures, Daemen students can be found hunkering down in the library with blankets and snacks. She also said that students who visit the library in the winter often stay for long periods of time.
“The entire campus was shut down because of the weather, but they [Daemen students] wanted the library open,” Kara McGuire, assistant director of the RIC/circulation librarian, stated, remembering a time when Daemen students emailed President Gary A. Olson about the library being open in frigid temperatures.
Students understand the importance of their education. However, during months when sunlight is minimal, it’s not uncommon to lose interest in staying active, struggle with daily routines, feel drained of energy, or even find it difficult to concentrate.
“Walking to the library helps me stay focused and motivated to finish my work,” said Steller Firestone-Smith, a First-year physician assistant major.
She recalled many times when she could have stayed in bed, but going to the library with friends motivated her to keep pursuing her goals.
Even commuters are utilizing the library during colder days. Zachary Ulatowski, a first-year student and physical therapy major, said that after every class, he can be found in the library. No matter how bad the weather is, he tries to accomplish his work, but being in the library greatly helps him stay on task.
“It [being in the library] allows me to see people I don’t see anywhere else on campus,” Ulatowski said.
This has been monumental in helping him form new connections with fellow students.
Some students involved in extracurricular activities, however, do not have allotted time in their busy schedules to go to the library during the winter.
D’Naesha Quicksey, a junior accountant major, track and field athlete, residence assistant, academic and outside coach said that she doesn’t use the library much.
“I really only go to the library for printing and my coaching sessions,” said Quicksey.
Even though she does not frequent the library, when she does go, she says that the study rooms help her with scattered focus. This is especially helpful due to the frigid weather.
As students continue to adapt and persevere through the winter months, librarians stress that they are not doing it alone. The library staff is there to guide, assist and make studying easier for all students.