Students at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa are now enjoying a cutting-edge addition to their study spaces at Hamilton Library with the introduction of Pillar Booths. These soundproof phone booths are modern study pods that have become a popular choice for students seeking a quiet and focused environment with all of them frequently filled.
“It’s more comfortable than studying outside, mostly because I don’t like the idea of plugging in earphones all the time, so I can just listen directly,” said Gaurav “Grey” Kodeyogesh, a sophomore psychology major.
Installed in the summer of 2023, the 11 Pillar Booths are located on the first floor of Hamilton Library.
In addition to its sound-muffling capabilities, the booths feature LED lighting, fans for air circulation that automatically activate upon entry, height adjustable desks for sitting or standing, and versatile connectivity options such as USB A+C ports, outlets and an ethernet port.
Sydney Hirayama, a biology and Chinese language student said, “I can really focus on what I’m doing and not have the distractions of the outside. I like that it’s soundproof and that there’s charging ports. I enjoy it!”
University Librarian Clem Guthro initiated the idea to introduce Pillar Booths, responding to the growing demand for private Zoom spaces on campus. Jan Gouveia, UH vice president for administration, approved funding of approximately $80,000 to acquire these innovative booths.
Unlike other reservable spaces in the library, the Pillar Booths operate on a first-come, first-served basis, allowing the library to gauge their use before implementing a reservation system.
Additional study areas available
The Pillar Booths join a series of recent upgrades to the library’s study spaces.
Seating currently includes large booths and study tables, and lounge seating for the first floor, made available in summer 2021. In addition, furniture from Sinclair Library was transferred to Hamilton Library, which included individual study pods and larger tables.
“The variety of different study spaces has been great for the students,” said Vicky Lebbin, interim associate university librarian. “There’s something that caters to each of their needs to help them enhance their academic experience and be successful.”
View the various library spaces throughout Hamilton Library, and sort by features (comfy seating, quiet zone, reservable, group study, etc).
