Following his chat with an Academic Support Librarian, Matt sat down with two Library Stewards to talk about patrolling, noise levels and Lana Del Rey!
By Matt Munnelly
I recently had a chat with two Stewards at the Library to hear a little about their role in the Library. I spoke to Pietro and another anonymous member of the team.
What are a Steward’s responsibilities?
Their primary role is patrolling the Library. Their presence helps ensure that noise levels are observed, that library users are safe and that no other rules are being broken, like being a space hog! They maintain standards that help make the library one of the most popular spots on campus for our students, that provides a positive academic environment!
They also help to maintain and manage some on-site facilities, like the turnstiles at the entrance and lifts, along with the campus Estates team.
The Stewards have little phones that tell them of noise complaints that have been submitted, and they go to sort them out when these messages are received. To send a noise complaint, text NOISE to 07920531153 along with the location the noise is coming from – that might be the number on a desk or the numbers on the library shelves.
How are noise levels maintained?
Fortunately, students seem to be pretty observant of the levels, so the Stewards can take a fairly relaxed approach to this. However, when there are complaints, they tend to operate on a 3 warnings system – as well as encouraging students to go to a group-study zone, like Floors 1 and 2, so they can carry on their discussion (or chat).
How can you keep your space clean?
As the phrase goes, a cluttered desk is a cluttered mind. Keep your space clear! Put away any work you’re not doing at the moment and give your workspace structure.
This goes for your devices too! Closing documents for essays you’re not working on and tabs for sites you don’t currently need can help you stay focussed on the task at hand.
What do responsible students need to keep in mind?
The Stewards tell me that there have been a small number of thefts, so when you do step away from your workspace for whatever reason, be sure to keep valuables safe.
Another thing to keep in mind is that, being a shared space, you need to be considerate of those around you. That means no space hogging and paying attention to what Noise Zone you’re in
What is your karaoke song?
Pietro: Seven Rings by Arianna Grande
Anonymous Steward: Something by Lana Del Rey, though they weren’t sure which song!
How have you found the Stewards team helpful at the Library? Let us know on Twitter @warwicklibrary, on Instagram @warwicklibrary, or by emailing us at libraryblogs@warwick.ac.uk
If you want to read Matt’s spotlight interview with an Academic Support Librarian, then take a look here.
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