During the week of midterm exams, the J.V. Fletcher Library is hosting an open study for WA students who would like several types of study spaces, as well as free refreshments such as pizza, candy, drinks, and other snacks located in the Meeting Room in the library’s basement. The program began on Thursday Jan. 18, and will continue on Jan. 21-22 from 2:00-7:45 pm.
This program has been running at the library for several years, and when the previous Young Adult (YA) Librarian Jess Dyment left in May 2024, new YA Librarian, Alexis Chrobak, continued the program with Dyment’s guidance.
“[Dyment] left all kinds of tips and tricks and instructions and shopping lists for me, so I’m just picking up where she left off,” Chrobak said.
Chrobak is responsible for picking out all of the YA and middle grade books, but she also handles all of the programming for the age group as well. Among programs such as different book clubs and events, like the upcoming Felted Boba Tea Patch Making, the midterm open study has also become one of her many responsibilities. All of these programs and events are sponsored by the Friends of the J.V. Fletcher Library. Founded in 1972, the organization is dedicated to raising money raising money to enhance the library’s offerings.
Though one of the main draws is the free food and drinks, the variety of study spaces and opportunities for students to prepare for their exams is another appealing aspect of this program.
For students who desire a quieter space, areas on the upper levels, such as the quiet study room, are extremely helpful when preparing for exams. On the other hand, for those who would like spaces that have background noise, room for study groups, or places to talk with friends, the Meeting Room in the basement gives students this option as well.
“Not only does [the library] provide quiet places for you to study, but it also provides places if you just want to hangout with friends and be able to talk about what you want to study,” sophomore Phillis Lu said. “And also they provide free food, so if you need energy, come here.”
For new high school students who are experiencing their first midterm exam week, finding strategies and tactics to study can be difficult. However, for freshman Austin Kane, the resources provided by the library have aided him in staying focused whilst studying.
“[This program] has been helpful because I feel like I’m able to focus more here than at home, with all the distractions and stuff, and I get to be with my friends too,” Kane said.
After a successful first day of the midterm open study this year, Chrobak is excited to continue providing resources and help for WA students for the rest of exam week.
“I’m so glad that people came, and it’s great to see all the kids studying and all of the study groups together,” Chrobak said. “I love to see people collaborating and getting together and working.”
