COVID-19 has left many students without adequate access to technology for online classes for this upcoming school year. In New York City, many students, whether attending school in-state or out-state, will likely face implications from their home environments and can struggle to keep up with the demands of their classes. Additionally, the time difference for those attending schools in different time-zones has added additional obstacles in being able to attend class live and ask instructors questions. The difficulties students are facing have adversely affected many students’ focus and performance.

           We, the students of New York City, propose that public libraries remain open pass their regular operating hours to create a student study hall for the many whose home environments are not suitable for learning. As the new school year begins as early as August, the same challenges from March remain. Access to technology and appropriate learning environment being the top voiced concerns from students of all academic levels. Our proposed study hall will follow CDC guidelines and only allow students to remain (i.e. check for student ID), much like what is already done within college libraries. Having a study hall will also allow students who still do not have access to technology to have assurance in a place that can provide the tools that they need.

We understand that for this to be a practical and functional, the following conditions must be taken into consideration:  

1. Reconfiguration of spaces and sanitation - To adhere to CDC guidelines, we understand that reconfiguration is necessary to maintain and practice social distancing. Additionally, masks will be worn at all times and sanitation wipes should be provided for areas to be cleaned after use.

2. ID system using students’ school email address – The study hall is solely for the propose of providing a safe space for students to study after regular hours. An ID system using a student’s .edu/.schools@nyc.gov address is essential to ensure that only students are permitted into the study hall area.

3. Remove or Increase timed sessions from library computers – Class time can vary heavily from 45 mins to 3 hours. Limiting interruptions like automatic sign-offs will enable students to focus and complete their work at their own pace.

4. Hiring/Volunteering of student staff – We understand that staffing for library branches is limited and cannot meet the increase of operating hours. Hiring student staff can help close this gap. As many students have lost their work-study jobs, working at a library will help students pay for their university-related costs while contributing to their communities. Students may have worked in campus libraries and so training may not be necessary. Essentially, we are creating a system by students for students.

5. Extension of Libraries’ Services for Local Residents – To limit overloading libraries’ regular staff, we would like to extend hours for hold pickups and returns using a checkpoint system within libraries.

The essence of this proposal is the fill the blanks left by the administrator left by our private and public educational institutions. Going virtual has hindered many of us but we want to learn, and we want to succeed. The establishment of a study hall will be a healthy middle ground for all of us and we now ask you, the education and library administration, to help us learn.

Sincerely,

The Students of New York