A recent article in The Arka Tech gave a few misconceptions about the new cell phone and noise policy in the Pendergraft Library & Technology Center. We would like clarify a few points and invite all students and faculty of Tech to take a closer look at the new policy as we believe it will benefit everyone.

After much consideration, the Library Cell & Noise Policy Committee has decided to allow minimal cell phone use and noise within certain areas of the building to accommodate student communication needs. In the past, cell phones were not permitted at all and group study was preferred within private study rooms only.

To make things easier, the Library & Technology Center has posted color-coded maps for all patrons, as well as color-coded squares on the walls to differentiate between noise areas and quiet areas. Blue zones represent quiet study areas in which noise should be kept to a minimum and cell phones are not permitted. Green zones represent active learning areas for group study in which moderate conversation and minimal cell phone use is permitted. However, all cell phones should always be set to silent or vibrate within the building.

We hope that a relaxed cell phone policy along with established quiet study areas will serve everyone’s interests, though we will continue to rely on individuals to be courteous and respectful of the needs of others at all times regardless of zone.

For more information and to read the full policy or view color-coded maps, visit the Library website http://library.atu.edu/ and click the purple cell phone at the bottom of the page.
Sincerely,

The Library Cell & Noise Policy Committee