This page provides a general overview of MPAL’s study and research spaces throughout the Library. The Library has two floors and a variety of work spaces where you can study quietly or work together with a group. Click to expand the panes to learn more about a particular area.
First Floor
On the first floor, you’ll find a public computer area and our reading room. The first floor is also where our service desk is located – stop by to check out materials, get recommendations, or learn tips to help you navigate the Library!
The computer area is located on the first floor of the Library, opposite the service desk. It’s a mixed-use space where people can talk, browse materials online, print, and scan. You’ll find:
- 4 computers that require a valid NetID to log-in. These are equipped with the following software: Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office Suite, Assistive Software, and media players.
- 4 docking stations that allow you to connect your personal laptop, tablet, or phone to a larger monitor with keyboard and mouse via USB-C cable.
- 4 open spaces with charging blocks.
- 2 public computers (1 on each floor) that do not require a log-in. These are equipped with web browsers and scanning software.
If you need specialized software, check out the Main Library’s Computers and Software List to find additional, specialized technology on campus.
The reading room is a quiet study space located along the north side of the Library. There are large windows, tables with moveable chairs, and armchairs with low tables. Power outlets can be found on the floor and along the wall by the windows.
Not sure how to find materials in the Library? Need help with your research?
Staff are available to help during all open hours! If the student staff working the desk can’t answer your question, they will seek assistance from trained reference staff. The service desk is also where you should go to pick up materials you have requested – if you request an item, Library staff will pull materials for you and hold them for pickup behind the desk.
Second Floor
The second floor has long tables near the stairs and stand-alone desks along the north windows. There is also an alcove in the far north-east corner for group work with a large table and chairs. If you want a more quiet, private space, be sure to check out our reservable study rooms!
There are desks for individual study along the far north wall of the second floor along with an alcove with a large table for group study and collaboration. Neither require reservations and are available to all first-come, first-serve.
You’ll also find three listening carrels on the second floor equipped with a variety of listening equipment including turntables, cassette playback units, and compact disc players.
MPAL has 6 rooms available to reserve for group study or as a quiet space for individual work. Bring your i-card to the service desk to check out a key!
The group rooms all have a large table and movable chairs, and rooms 3, 4, 5, 6 also have a variety of listening and viewing equipment. To keep these spaces available for all, these group rooms are not intended for recurring meetings or course instruction.
For more information about room use policies and the reservation process, click to reserve a room. For a detailed list of what equipment is available in each room, click on the “Info” button next to each room name.
Need a place to store your books and Library materials when you’re out of the Library? Working on a long-term project and don’t want to carry around all of your materials?
MPAL has research lockers located on the second floor that you can reserve to keep your materials in the Library. Preference is given to students working on theses and dissertations.
Contact Josh Hankemeier (hankemer@illinois.edu) for more details and to request a locker.
