Library Diaries

At Penn State’s one and only Pattee and Paterno Library, your study spot isn’t just a place to lock in — it’s a full-blown statement about who you really are. Whether you study best in noise, silence, between bookshelves or in a glowing computer lab, Pattee and Paterno has got you covered. As finals week creeps up, let’s discuss what your study spot really means. 

First up: the Starbucks seating area and the lively room next to it. You’re signing up for noise, long lines, Christmas tunes on repeat and absolutely zero cell service. And of course, that addicting smell of a $7 coffee and a $6 panini. Starbucks caters to the multitaskers — the people who somehow work best in complete chaos. Maybe you’ll crank out some mindless busywork here, but a thesis paper? Absolutely not.

Switching things up, we have the infamous Stacks — complete with spiderwebs in the corners, jarring silence and the feeling that a murder mystery could unfold at any moment. The Stacks are not welcome to a bestie study sesh or taking a Zoom call.  The only thing you may hear is flipping pages, fingers typing and pencils writing. This location is home to the dedicated student immersed in literature. 

Maybe, just maybe, you’re a reserved-room type of person. An enclosed space with luxury spinning chairs, “soundproof” walls and a giant whiteboard with absolutely no Expo markers included. These rooms are usually booked by a group of friends who will spend 70% of the time chatting and spiraling. Maybe there’s a group project happening … maybe not. Reserved rooms attract the social students who want to be productive, but in reality, they desperately need silence.

Ah, the Harry Potter room. Tucked away on the second floor, it transforms Penn State into a Harvard-inspired fantasy: green lamps glowing, shelves stacked with books and a study vibe straight out of a movie. This room blends the intense focus of future doctors with the creative energy of art majors. It’s a diverse space — some might even call it the “ultimate study spot.” The Harry Potter room makes studying feel chic and elegant, creating the perfect vibe for a chilly-weather study session.

No matter where you land — in chaos, silence, spinning chairs or under green lamps — your study spot says more about you than you think. Each nook in the library has its own personality, one that might just align with yours. As finals week approaches, choose the place that matches your vibe, supports your grind and reminds you you’re not alone in the vast Pattee and Paterno maze.

Where’s your go-to study spot in the library? Let us know on Instagram, @VALLEYMag!

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