I don't really like the Downing Library. It's nothing personal. I love the architecture (columns were one of the things that drew me to Downing) and it has an actually reasonable amount of books I need. The problem is I can see the bar, or Pizza Express and I am physically incapable of not talking to people that I even vaguely recognise. So I have ventured to find alternate places for me to revise, where I won't see friends or anyone that I have ever spoken to. Hopefully.* I will add to this post if any more spring to mine.
*Although sharing them here will obviously reduce the likelihood of solitude dramatically. Damn it.
*Although sharing them here will obviously reduce the likelihood of solitude dramatically. Damn it.
The University Library
To many the UL can seem a daunting place - with over 9 million books and counting, it is a big place but that to me is one of it's attractions. If you are claustrophobic, the Reading Room is the best indoor space you could pick. Then again, for the agoraphobes amongst you, the UL is the best place to find a tiny nook where you can curl up between shelves and not see another human being potentially for hours. Perfect.
To many the UL can seem a daunting place - with over 9 million books and counting, it is a big place but that to me is one of it's attractions. If you are claustrophobic, the Reading Room is the best indoor space you could pick. Then again, for the agoraphobes amongst you, the UL is the best place to find a tiny nook where you can curl up between shelves and not see another human being potentially for hours. Perfect.
Indigo Coffee House
Definitely not one for the claustrophobes, but this teeny tiny cafe provides not only a cosy corner for a read but also really good hot chocolate, cake and bagels. Just down from the Corpus Playrooms in St. Edward's Passage, this is an ideal place to escape to from revision or a place to focus in. Two highlights for me include the Wall of Money - a display of currencies from around the world - and a sign which warns you of a £1 levy for the incorrect use of the word literally in a sentence.
The Seat Alongside Senate House
If you have ever walked down Senate House Passage, between Trinity Hall and King's Parade you may have noticed that in the wall of Gonville and Caius there is a seat built into the wall. One particularly intimidating book review, I found myself unable to continue reading at home. I wandered the city to find somewhere to sit and read, and this was the perfect place. It is protected from the rain and wind and there is enough room to recline or to just sit comfortably. However, be warned - this seat will make you perfectly posed for tourists to take pictures of you looking studenty.
If you have ever walked down Senate House Passage, between Trinity Hall and King's Parade you may have noticed that in the wall of Gonville and Caius there is a seat built into the wall. One particularly intimidating book review, I found myself unable to continue reading at home. I wandered the city to find somewhere to sit and read, and this was the perfect place. It is protected from the rain and wind and there is enough room to recline or to just sit comfortably. However, be warned - this seat will make you perfectly posed for tourists to take pictures of you looking studenty.
And if all else fails, I will retreat once more under my desk (pre-existing photographic evidence for this is currently unlocatable).
Georgina Phillips
Georgina Phillips
