A Conclusive Plan for Navigating the Floors of Mann
We all have our favorite libraries on Cornell’s campus. The places that make it just a little bit easier to get in that study groove and really grind out your work. For me, that place has always been Mann Library. As a proud Communication major and CALS student, Mann has always felt like home- as homey as a public library could feel. With that said, I do remember the intimidation I felt at the beginning of my freshman year when I walked through the double glass doors and had no idea where to go. Four floors, all full of chairs, couches, booths, desks, computers labs, private study rooms, study pods– how would anyone decide? Well, luckily, as a self-proclaimed expert on Mann Library, I am here to provide my comprehensive, two-and-a-half years in the making, review of all the different places to sit in Mann Library.
My favorite place of all time to study in Mann Library is the Comm hub on the fourth floor. I know this is an unpopular opinion, and I know that I am probably a little biased, but if you have never been, trust me, you need to. Don’t let the fact that it is called the Comm hub deter you. It is usually pretty empty, meaning there is always an open seat, and since it is only open during the day, it gets the best natural lighting. It gives cafe vibes, so it’s definitely a little more social and probably not the best place to go if you're looking for silence, but it is my top choice for a great atmosphere to hang out in between classes, to meet with a project group, or to get some busy work done.
But if the Comm hub is closed, which, unfortunately, it more often than not is, then my second choice would be the second floor. I personally love how social it can be, especially on a Sunday afternoon or weeknights. It is so motivating to be surrounded by other motivated people. It is also a great place to go study with friends. Loving the second floor of Mann is a pretty universally shared sentiment, and for good reason. With comfy chairs and good vibes, you really can’t go wrong here! Notable mentions are in order for the group study pods and private rooms (when you can snag one!).
Another place to study in Mann that is near and dear to my heart, that I feel not nearly enough people know about, is the balcony on the third floor. If you want the feeling of the second floor but are looking for a little bit more peace and quiet, this is the best spot for you. It literally overlooks the second-floor Dean’s Room but is so underhyped. It is always empty, making it all the better for focus and getting a lot of work done. However, if even that is too much noise, I promise you can hear a pin drop in the study areas on the third floor. The third floor can be intense, and be careful because people will be quick to shush you and throw you a glance for making too much noise. Usually, it is a little too quiet for me, but I would be lying if I said I did not knock out some great essays or some hardcore study hours at those desks.
One place you will never find me studying is on the first floor. I cannot really put my finger on why I am so against studying there, but I do know that, at least among my friends, we all agree that the first floor is a no-go. First, the desks and chairs seem significantly less comfortable than all other options. Second, I can only imagine how distracted I would get watching every single person as they walk by. The first floor is always relatively populated, so I guess many people disagree with me here, but I truly will never understand how someone could effectively get work done on the first floor.
My final spot, the Mann lobby, comes with a huge caveat. I love working in the Mann lobby but only for late-night grind sessions after the library has closed. Some people don’t know this, but even after the library closes, the lobby is open 24/7, making it a great place to go when you need a few more hours but don’t feel like mobilizing. There have been countless times when I have sat in the lobby until the wee hours of the night and have not a single complaint. A fun tip I have is if you're planning on moving to the lobby after Mann closes, try to head down a few minutes early to grab a good table. People watching the mass exodus that occurs right at 10 p.m. makes for the best study break entertainment.
While this review of Mann Library study spots is incredibly subjective and based solely on my opinions and experiences, I stand by it wholeheartedly and will defend it forever.
