1. Brody Learning Commons Quiet Reading Room
Known for its silent environment, the Brody Reading Room offers a place where you can concentrate on work. I love the high ceilings and natural lighting, which help the room feel calm. If you ever need a break, you can step out of the room and walk a few feet to grab a drink from Brody Cafe. This is my go-to spot when I’m studying for exams because it feels like everyone around you is equally as focused, and I find that motivating!
2. Gilman Hall Hutzler Reading Room
This cozy spot is perfect for late-night study sessions, with comfy chairs that look out through stained glass windows. It’s open all night for those days when you have long work hours, and I’ve seen people fall asleep here. I like that there are different sections of the room with tables and cubbies that add variety to the seating options.
3. Mudd Atrium
Mudd Atrium is bright and inviting, thanks to plenty of natural light and a convenient café. The Daily Grind Cafe serves locally roasted coffee, and my personal favorite is their milky way latte. It’s easy to find a quiet nook for studying, especially at the end of the hall near the Bascom Undergraduate Teaching Labs.
4. Olin Hall
Olin Hall offers a secluded and calming environment on the edge of campus. The Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences works here, so it’s decorated with indoor plants. My first time going to Olin was for my Biomaterials final review session. I liked the atmosphere so much, I just stayed the rest of the day to study. It is slightly further than most of the other buildings but the walk around San Martin Drive is very peaceful, especially in autumn.
5. Levering Lounge
Levering Lounge provides a variety of seating options in a comfortable and welcoming space. There’s a cabinet that includes board games, a Nintendo switch, and more that you can borrow. There’s even a pool table, making it a great place to balance relaxing with studying. I love coming here with friends to grab dinner from Levering Kitchens and then heading upstairs to the lounge for a quieter place to eat and do work.
6. Imagine Center
The Imagine Center caters to different study needs, offering both quiet booths, larger study rooms, and collaborative areas. I like working and having quick video calls in the telephone booth room, which only fits one person on a stool. Plus, with free drinks available in the kitchen, why wouldn’t you want to study here? The Life Design Lab also hosts many events here and you can stop by to discuss your career goals with Life Design Educators who are happy to connect you with the resources you need. There’s even a free photobooth you can use to take a new headshot.
7. George Peabody Library
If you’re only studying on Homewood campus, then you’re missing out! Take the JHMI Shuttle to the George Peabody Library, which opened in 1878 and is ornately decorated. It offers a unique, historic ambiance with quiet tables in the stacks for focused study sessions. If I’m coming here to study, I like to bring a friend so we can walk around the Mount Vernon neighborhood to clear our minds.
8. Bird in Hand (Honorable Mention)
While not technically on campus, this bookstore and café, located a block away from Homewood, is a convenient change of scenery. You can enjoy a cup of coffee while you study or catch up with a friend. You’re bound to run into other students or even professors that you know here! I’ve finished their free coffee punch card more times than I’d like to admit and am on my way to becoming a regular.
