It would be nice to have vending machines in the library. When it is late at night, the last thing someone wants to do is have to walk outside at 3 AM to Alpine. I know the NYU library has this feature, and it’s nice.
ANSWER PERSON RESPONDS: Ostensibly, drinks are supposed to be in spill-proof containers, and, ostensibly, there’s a no-food policy in the library. (I know, I know ….) The greasy and sugary food damages library materials, and the organic debris attracts pests that also damage library materials. However, we don’t have any bouncers or police — or even wannabe police — on the library staff.
I think that until this policy is done away with on paper as well as in actuality, or until a student lounge area is designated where feasts are officially permitted instead of just actually permitted, then we won’t have any food vending machines in the building. The middle of the West Campus quad should be one place that’s pretty safe for a late night stroll and study break to the vending machines in the Union hallway, although I can understand some trepidation at 3:00 AM.
I don’t know what the long-term plans are for the old Perk area next to the Gothic Reading Room, but once the ground floor of Perkins is renovated later this year, that area will once again be accessible without leaving the building. Perhaps it once again could become a lounge area and include some vending machines. It seems to me it would be ideal for this purpose: inside the building, but outside the library.
Thanks for the suggestion; I’ll share it with others.