In earlier times, the College librarian patrolled the premises, quick to reprimand anyone bold enough to put his feet up on a wooden chair.  Comfort, like technology, has gotten a big upgrade, thanks to the Class of 2004 and their gift of new furniture for the Mudd Library Lounge.

"We were looking for a family-room type of look, something like the Langbo living room," says circulation services coordinator Michelle Gerry, who helped choose the furniture for the library.  "We do plan to add lamps, side tables and a rug eventually."

The furniture is located near that other sign of the new times, vending machines in the corner near the library's video and DVD collection.  And while it's clearly intended to give patrons a welcoming and comfortable break space, Gerry notes that the lounge is not just for relaxation. 

"The amount of group study sessions held in the library has really increased," Gerry explains, "and this space encourages groups to get together and talk."  She notes that professors who bring a class session to the library also prefer meeting with students in the lounge, rather than a small classroom or conference room.

Still, comfortable couches aren't available everywhere on campus. "People seem to enjoy being able to be comfortable here," says assistant director of libraries Mike VanHouten. 

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