Press Release: October 12, 2012
Harvard Undergraduate Council announces new library schedule
Cambridge, MA - The Harvard Undergraduate Council, Harvard College Dean Evelynn M. Hammonds, and Interim Librarian of Harvard College Susan Fliss announced today that Lamont Library will be open 24/7 during reading period and final exams this academic year.
The announcement follows a yearlong effort by the Undergraduate Council and the College to extend Lamont Library hours. The issue was first brought to the UC Student Life Committee last fall by Rep. Seth A. Riddley ’12 who worked at the library and saw how many people he had to turn away from the library at night.
Then Chair of the UC Student Life Committee, Rep. Christopher A. Devine ’13, followed up with the College and library administration. “When Seth told me how many students he would have to turn away and how they asked him where else they could study, I knew this was a problem,” said Devine. “It just makes sense – people should have a place where they can study comfortably on the weekends. I am so excited to see this project succeed.”
Current Chair of the UC Student Life Committee, Rep. Michael George ’14, said, “This is a perfect example of how students and the administration can work together to better student life on campus. I am so proud of our committee’s work, and look forward to working with more students to address student concerns.”
The UC conducted a survey of Harvard College students with over 1800 respondents. After analyzing the findings, the UC worked with the library administration to establish a trial run during the reading and finals period last spring. Data taken from that trial was used by to further advocate for the transition this academic year.
This semester, Lamont Library will be open from 9 a.m. December 2 through 5 p.m. December 21.
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