The Chronicle: Colloquy: Responses

I'm somewhat disappointed that with the many topics worthy of debate within the article on declining use of library buildings this colloquy is directed to allowing food and drinks in the building. Under the right circumstances, it might make the library somewhat more inviting, but the value of allowing food and beverages is outweighed by the real damage it can do to the building and collection. Spilled drinks cause stains, liquids discarded in trash cans leak through, food waste invites bugs and rodents -- both of which are dangerous to book collections, and vermin can invade staff work areas. I like to have a snack handy when I'm studying so I understand why students like cafes in the building. But once you go in that direction, you can expect to soon have pizzas being delivered to the library.

: -- Steven Bell, Director of the Library, Philadelphia University (posted 11/14, 9:55 a.m., U.S. Eastern time)

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