What do we think of when we think “library?” For many, the image of people fastidiously reading or studying or a librarian shushing a group of people that are talking often come to mind. However, for students of OHS, the library has come to be a hangout spot. It is the type of place where kids can sit at a table and do homework while talking to their friends, play math games on the computers; a place where the books are rarely taken out or even touched. Both scenarios are acceptable for a library, especially a High School one. The question is… Which is best for the students?

It can be said that if OHS had a more classic library, it would be relatively empty compared to one where students have the ability chat and relax. In the cafeteria at OHS, students find it hard to locate seats or hear conversations over the blasting music. Thus, they need a place where they can sit and actually talk. If students had nowhere to go, people would be causing trouble somewhere around the school. A centralized, communal place helps students release restlessness that has accumulated over the day in a healthy, safe manor. Unfortunately, a more casual setting might lead to less work being done. With kids at all the computers playing games, it is hard to find a spot where one can log-on and finish an essay. With all the tables and chairs occupied, one can’t casually walk in during the middle of the period and expect to study for a quiz.

The library at OHS has its pros and cons, and nothing can ever be ideal. However, it’s interesting to think about how a change as simple as the environment of a library can affect the entire school. Also, it can show the nature of the students; are you the one actually doing work in the library? Or are you doing it at home and using your library time to hang?