This week's question was submitted by a patron who asked what is being done about noise at our Aspen Drive location during after school hours. Here's the answer from Aspen Drive Library Manager Dave Archer:

Aspen Drive Library staff are dedicated to making the library a welcoming place and providing quality service to everyone in the community.  The Library’s close proximity to Hawthorn Schools makes it an attractive destination for students on weekday afternoons between 2 and 5pm.  Patrons who use the library during these hours know the building is bustling with activity!

Students who visit the library are expected to be respectful of other patrons and library staff and follow behavior expectations we set in our Use of the Library Policy.  Students who misuse the library may be asked to leave, with repeat instances of disruptive behavior resulting in loss of library privileges for a specific amount of time.  Talking in the library is not prohibited, but conversations should be kept at a reasonable level. We have a security monitor on duty during after school hours to assist our staff in enforcing these rules. Please help us keep the library a welcoming place for all by reporting problem behavior to a security monitor, librarian or manager.  

Students in grades 6-12 are encouraged to check out our ‘Homework Café’ on Monday and Wednesday afternoons in the Aspen Drive meeting room. Students can lounge and study, and grab a healthy snack in a relaxed atmosphere.   

Adults seeking a quiet area (no talking) during the post-school afternoon hours are encouraged to use the Reading Room or book a study room (which can be booked up to a week in advance).  When not scheduled for a library program, the Aspen meeting room is open for adult quiet study.  To view upcoming quiet study sessions in the meeting room, please consult Aspen’s Calendar of events.