How busy is the Library?

The Library can be used by more than 2000 students at a time. We have a mix of silent and group study areas, bookable rooms, and computer labs.

We understand some people prefer to use the Library when it is very quiet. We looked at library occupancy data for the last academic year to see when were our quietest and busiest times.

 

During semesters

Quietest times during semesters

During semesters, but outwith 24-hour opening, our quietest times are usually:

• From 7am until 10am;
• From 8pm until midnight.

The quietest hour is typically from 7am to 8am.

Busiest times during semesters

During semesters, but outwith 24-hour opening, our busiest times are usually:

• From 11am until 8pm, with a peak between 1pm and 4pm.

The busiest hour is typically from 3pm to 4pm.

 

 

During 24-hour opening

24-hour opening begins in the weeks before and during formal assessment periods. This is usually from late November until Christmas vacation in Semester 1, and from April to May in Semester 2.

Quietest times during 24-hour opening

During 24-hour opening, our quietest times are usually from 11pm until 9am.

The quietest hour is typically from 5am to 6am.

The last few days of each period of 24-hour opening are usually very quiet, as by this time many students have completed their studies for the semester and choose to take a well-earned break!

Busiest times during 24-hour opening

During 24-hour opening, our busiest times are usually between midday and 5pm.

The busiest time is typically from 2pm to 4pm.

 

During vacations

The quietest time to visit the Library is during vacations and in the last few days of formal assessment periods. Library occupancy can vary during vacations, but our quietest times are usually:

• From 7am to 10am;
• From 6pm to closing.

Our busiest times tend to be between 1pm and 4pm, with a peak between 2pm and 3pm.