There is an ongoing issue with students talking in pairs (and on mobile phones etc.) in many of the library "Quiet Study" zones. This happens so frequently that one single student in an area could not possibly reprimand all the students without being hated by a good number of people in the zone. This issue has become more pressing as mobile phones etc. invaded the earth, and the pontential for distraction is higher in libraries. Other university and public libraries have strict rules and signage so this is a public issue that affects many people.

Does the UQ library agree that this is an issue?

In this case I might suggest that the signage been changed to "Silent Individual study" and "No Mobile Phones", because it is clear that a significant number of students incorrectly misinterpret the "Quiet Study" signage as "It's ok we talk as long as we talk quietly". Better signage means that no misinterpretation can occur.

However, if I have incorrectly misinterpreted the signage, and it actually means "Quiet study", which actually 'little to no noise' - and is of course open to interpretation, where does this leave students who want to study in complete silence?

Are we able have some strictly silent zones?

Thankyou for any comments/suggestions.

A library is more than a place to study or an archive for books and journals. It is the foundation of any university campus for the support that it provides for both staff and students.

To this end, I would like to congratulate the Ipswich library staff on a library that ticks all the boxes:
* Acts as a central hub for the Ipswich university community
* The staff are always available to provide assistance on a range of research, teaching and learning and referencing questions.
* The library is a pleasant environment to work in - and the Ipswich staff are always thinking of ways they can improve their space and make it more conducive to independent and group study.
* Staff help students to feel that they are a valuable part of the university community, and not just a number.

Thank you, Ipswich staff, for your invaluable help throughout the years I've been both student and academic staff. I will continue to be one of your most frequent visitors:)