comments from save uw physics astronomy library petition updated 3rd may 2014
DESCRIPTION
Comments from our petition to save University of Washington Physics Astronomy Library. The petitionees include students, alumni, faculty from UW, other US universities and from abroad, member of UW President's Club, concerned public and also parents of current students.TRANSCRIPT
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Comments
Name Location Date Comment
Matthew Wingate Haslingfield,
Cambridgeshire, United
Kingdom
2014-04-03 I was a postdoc at UW and made extensive use of the library and reading
room. It's a shame to see it at risk.
Tessa Wilkinson Redmond, WA 2014-04-03 This is my favorite quiet study space on campus. I was disappointed that it was
so quickly being closed. I would like the reading room to be preserved, atleast.
Mila Kunis beverly hills, CA 2014-04-03 it is a good place to read
David Walt Seattle, WA 2014-04-03 This is not only a great library to study in, but i have several times actually
needed to reference materials here that I couldn't find anywhere else.
Maarten van Genabeek Seattle, WA 2014-04-03 i use this space to study
Quinn Bracelen Renton, WA 2014-04-03 It's the quietest, most study-friendly place on campus. Please don't take it away
:(
moataz alghamdi seattle, WA 2014-04-03 Because it is important to have a place where physics and astronomy students
gather and read at a giant university like UW.
Kunal Patel Seattle, WA 2014-04-03 Because its the best place to study and the book selection is amazing
Alexander Zderic Seattle, WA 2014-04-03 I study there
Akshay Ghalsasi Seattle, WA 2014-04-03 Easy access to books and study space.
Igor Tolkov Kirkland, WA 2014-04-03 UW Class of 2013, Mathematics, Physics, Computer Science, Linguistics.
Dylan Taylor Seattle, WA 2014-04-03 We have one of the largest undergraduate bodies, and still growing. With all
the other libraries overflowing with people this is one of the last places of quite
study for the students in our growing physics department.
ben tickman seattle, WA 2014-04-03 i study here and its quiet and its really pretty at sunset. i prefer to do all
nioghters in this libray
Jon Ringuette Seattle, WA 2014-04-03 One of the few QUIET study areas for physics majors/grads
Laura Mayorga Maple Valley, WA 2014-04-03 That library was a quiet, calming, place to work, study, tutor, etc. It was almost
an exclusive club. The views were amazing, the atmosphere calm, and it'd be a
shame to see it go.
from Save UW Physics Astronomy Library PetitionBLOG savingparr.org FB facebook.com/SavingPARR Updated 03 MAY 2014
http://www.change.org/petitions/save-uw-physics-astronomy-library
BLOG http://savingparr.org
FB http://www.facebook.com/SavingPARR
Twitter @savingparr
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Name Location Date Comment
Charles Hagedorn Seattle, WA 2014-04-03 A readily accessible Physics Library (renamed a "reading room", but it remains
a library in substance) is a mark of a department that has its priorities in order
and that makes research and learning a priority. I was very impressed by the
library when I applied to UW, and I regard it as one of our selling points. If the
University wishes to continue to attract Nobel-Prize winning physicists, this is
the kind of facility that can make a difference.
Physicists designed our department's buildings. That they chose the very finest
location in the building for the library should give some insight into the
importance with which they regard the library. They could have installed
beautiful offices or a wonderful meeting room, but instead they chose to honor
knowledge and study. That's what we do.
An aphorism repeated to me by several great physicists, and I find true in my
own work: "Months in the lab can save you literally hours in the library."
The internet brings volumes of content to everyone worldwide, but they cannot
replace the fertile environment and contemplative experience of a library. As
software "eats the world", one physical distinction of great schools and great
departments will be the presence of great libraries.
I thank you for your time and attention, and ask that you carefully consider what
will be lost if our library's accessible resources are stripped from our
department.
Colin LaMont Seattle, WA 2014-04-03 The library is the core of my research. Ordering my books there saves me time,
browsing there introduces me to unexpected insights. It's where I am most
productive. It's part of why I am proud to be a graduate student here. It is an
asset that does more for the strength of the physics department than any other
single physical resource. It is difficult to think of something more cost effective
for the UW's long term commitment to excellence than a strong library system
(and the PAB in particular) to attract and assist researchers of the highest
calibre.
Derek Chance Seattle, WA 2014-04-03 The Physics Library is the best place to do work for physics majors.
Jeffrey Schueler New York, NY 2014-04-03 A dedicated former patron to UW libraries who has spent countless hours in
this library.
Adam Richie-Halford Seattle, WA 2014-04-03 It's a quiet place with a nice selection.
John Fuini Seattle, WA 2014-04-03 Quiet and inspiring place to think and check out physics books.
Andrew Simonetti Puyallup, WA 2014-04-03 For me, the PARR has been the most quite, humble, and relaxing library at the
UW and continues to be my favorite place to study on campus. The resources
and space the PARR provides is invaluable.
Denise Schmitz Lynnwood, WA 2014-04-03 This is the best study area on campus for physics majors. It's quiet and
provides easy access to the books and resources we need.
Sungwon Kwak 2014-04-03 Okay, April fool is over.
Kelsey Funkhouser Seattle, WA 2014-04-03 There aren't a lot of places for students to comfortably study in the PAB and the
reading room/library is a valuable space for that reason.
Olga Afichuk Federal Way, WA 2014-04-03 It is a nice quiet place to study which is so difficult to find at UW.
Sungwon Kwak 2014-04-03 Okay, April fool is over.
Tiffany Jansen Edmonds, WA 2014-04-03 This library is the quietest library of all, and I can really focus here.
Maria Steinrueck Seattle, WA 2014-04-03 This is my favorite place to study, it has a great atmosphere and usually I can
focus there best.
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Name Location Date Comment
Laura Chipman Bainbridge Island, WA 2014-04-03 The Physics library is a wonderful place to study and a south campus gem!
Kenton Nakamura Seattle, WA 2014-04-03 One of the BEST places to study on campus. A very quiet, inviting place to
spend time. Wish they didn't close at 5, but I'm very productive there
Adam Remesnik Seattle, WA 2014-04-03 The reading room is one of the few perks to being a physics major. If this
change occurs I will be extremely reluctant to offer ANY donations to the
University or University affiliated foundations after graduation. No
communication or debate with the undergrads over this change. The
administration has not informed us over how a "Data Science Studio" will be an
improvement over what we currently have or why I needs to be housed in the
Physics Building instead of in the Paul Allen Building or another location more
central to campus and appropriate to the users.
This really feels like a big "F U" from the administration.
Ching McBride Rutherford, CA 2014-04-03 My daughter goes to the UW
Kevin Jorissen Seattle, WA 2014-04-03 I often use the library for work purposes as part of my scientific research, and
to consult the literature on the shelves there.
Roy Taylor Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 As a Physics student, I recognize the reading room as a vital part of the major's
community, and as a part of the STEM community as a whole.
Alex Thompson Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 This library provides an inspirational and distraction - free place to study. I visit
many times a week, and do my best work in the PARR. Please save this
valuable space!
Anthony Hall Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 The physics-astronomy reading room adds a sense of humanity and
appreciation to what, at times, can seem rigid and static. It's closure would be
not only the end of a beautiful space for students to learn but also the end of a
space of quiet contemplation amidst the rush of a college education.
Karl Vyhmeister Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 I have used this library and enjoy the wonderful, peaceful view from the reading
room. It also is a great resource for finding materials specific to Physics and
Astronomy.
Zhizhen Zhou Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 This library makes people love science.
Jeremy Holt Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 It is a valuable space for students, research assistants, and professors to
conveniently access a wide-range of important scientific literature.
John Schaibley Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 I use the library frequently. It is a valuable resource to the department.
kaija reinelt Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 perfect study spot
Breana Murphy Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 The Physics Library is one of the most beautiful places on campus to view west
campus and Portage Bay. There is no alternative public venue on campus that
has the same atmosphere or the scanning resources. The book scanning
station is a great resource - the only resource of its kind on that half of campus.
Yu-hsuan Ting Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 I like to study here too
Emily Anderson Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 Favorite place to study on campus. The combination of natural lighting,
beautiful views, and peaceful atmosphere create a space more conducive to
learning than anywhere else I've found. Save the physics library please!
Thomas Vo Pasadena, CA 2014-04-04 A peaceful place to work on difficult physics problems.
Caitlin Schaefer Burien, WA 2014-04-04 It's the best place on campus to study and provides lots of resources for
Physics and Astronomy majors like myself. It's important resources like libraries
stay alive to keep students like me focused and prepared for their future
careers in school and the job market.
Alvin Lieu Lynnwood, WA 2014-04-04 This is the quietest and nicest place study area on campus with some of the
nicest views. You can put computers anywhere.
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Name Location Date Comment
Natalie Briggs Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 This is an amazing study space for students. It is convenient, small, quiet, and
has great views. By far my favorite place to study on campus.
Mike Murray Waco, TX 2014-04-04 I like this library
Andrew Newill Belfair, WA 2014-04-04 The Physics Reading Room was one of my touchstones during my
undergraduate time. I utilized many environments for study and inspiration,
ranging from Finn MacCool's Irish Pub to a closet. Yes, a closet. The PARR
was the most perfect place for inspiring contemplation, and was one of my
favorite places on the planet (I've seen a lot of the planet, by the way). Closing
this space would be a severe blow to the academic experience of every person
on campus, and for a dubious and unsubstantiated benefit. Please keep the
PARR alive, and uphold the tradition of excellence that is synonymous with UW
Physics.
yujung kim Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 This is the most beautiful place in the UW!! No way to close this beautiful
place.. I love this place so much....
Martin Bickeboeller Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 As a Physics graduate and member of The President's Club of the UW I
request to continue to use this space for its designed purpose of intense study
and learning.
Harlin Wood Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 A beautiful place to study in peace and quiet and escape normal hustle and
bustle
Anna MacCamy Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 This is the most beautiful place to study on campus or to just sit back and relax
away from the hustle and bustle of campus. SAVE THIS LIBRARY!
Dawn Liang Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 This library is the best library.
Mochamad Prananda Everett, WA 2014-04-04 Very unique place that makes UW stand out as seen by students.
Teresa Jiang Sammamish, WA 2014-04-04 It's my favorite place to study on campus!
Carlos E Boston, MA 2014-04-04 I am a UW grad and I studied in this library many times. This is a very special
location that brings peace to many students, day after day. It would be a real
loss to the UW community to lose this very special library.
Stephen Wu Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 I love this place, I come study all the time, and I think people in the future can
enjoy it as much as I do.
Elli Novatcheva Redmond, WA 2014-04-04 One of the only remaining truly quiet library spots on campus! Moreover, this is
used by many people outside the Physics department, and is therefore a
campus resource, meaning that the decision to remove it should have involved
consultation of all students.
Elizabeth Pring Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 The view from this library is GORGEOUS. You should also consult with
students before a decision like this occurs.
Quinn Oksoktaruk Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 This library is silent but not an eerie silent, it has a comfortable silence to it
unlike Suzzallo. This library is where I am most concentrated and productive.
Micah Berg Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 best view tho
Lovely Taidy Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 No library should be closed. Period. Doesn't the school want more areas that
encourage studying and reading??
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Name Location Date Comment
Pearl Nguyen Renton, WA 2014-04-04 The different perspectives and hypothetical situations required of students
enrolled in Physics courses isquite difficult to grasp. As I waited for Physics
class to begin over the duration of three quarter I would review the material
in the Physics-Astronomy library. After class, I would head back to the same
place I was an hour before. The Physics-Astronomy library isnt a typical library.
Its quaint and comfortable, and caused me to appreciate Physics much more.
Even if I didnt have Physics, I would make my way to this very library for the
view. There is nothing more therapeutic during exams than looking up from
notes - taken meticulously throughout the quarter to a beautiful panoramic
view. This library is filled with literature, but also the memories of many
students before me who indubitably can relate to what I said above.
Ill be graduating this June, and I would very much like for future students to
enjoy a special kind of ambience only to be found in the Physics-Astronomy
library.
Alex Tiffin Federal Way, WA 2014-04-04 Alum of the Physics program. This was an invaluable resource for my studies.
Sam Maylor Kenmore, WA 2014-04-04 This gem of a library is one of the most beautiful spots on all of UW's amazing
campus. Such a quiet, inspiring work environment cannot be found anywhere
else.
Kimberly Johnson Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 I'm going to be in the biology department at UW and this would be an amazing
space for me to utilize.
Alex Vaschillo Redmond, WA 2014-04-04 As a senior student of mathematics, physics, and chemistry I believe that the
Physics Reading Room is one of very few remaining serene studying sites on
campus. The studious environment has proven invaluable to me in the last
three years, and the library's collection of physics literature makes it a pleasure
to browse the shelves, offering a connection to physicists past that cannot be
found at any other library on campus. I am disturbed by the secrecy and
suddenness of the closure of the PARR and, at the very least, would have liked
to hear discussion about reasons for the closure and alternative solutions to
whatever problems the closure aims to solve.
Alexa Erdogan Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 This library is a gorgeous and serene resource that is not only utilized by
physics students but by many other UW students from a range of disciplines.
Losing this place would be a significant loss to the campus and its students.
Elana Voigt Bremerton, WA 2014-04-04 The lack of student representation in this decision is highly disturbing. That
student spaces should be removed without student input is counter to a
productive academic environment.
Kaleb Smith Redmond, WA 2014-04-04 I study there often.
Loren Hart Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 It's a beautiful library and I love studying there
Haley Wofford Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 This is an amazing space and great for studying!
Elizabeth Muntean Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 This is my favorite library on campus! It has the most beautiful views and I go
there all the time. I even wish it was open more often.
Andrew Wilmington Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 I study here extremely often and it would be a shame to close this beautiful
library down.
Taylor Posey Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 My absolute favorite library on campus
Juliana Borges Lake Stevens, WA 2014-04-04 This is a beautiful space for students from all disciplines to be productive.
There are precious few locations like this one on campus - please don't take it
away.
Julianne Sloane Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 This is one of the best library on campuses. A personal favorite to study and a
key place that makes UW great.
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Name Location Date Comment
Kaia Barth Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 I am a junior biochemistry major who uses the physics reading room several
times a week because it is a beautiful, quiet and peaceful setting in which to
focus on difficult assignments. It is also one of the only places on campus
where students have access to the beautiful mountain views surrounding UW,
and is the only nice study space on the west side of campus, so a perfect
destination for short study breaks between classes.
Emily Fowler Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 Truly peaceful study space, with calming views and a variety of different topics
of interest. Though I didn't end up majoring in Physics or Astronomy, I loved the
atmosphere of this library and it's convenient location to the science buildings
as well.
Mitchell Harper Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 The library is one of the best spaces on campus to study, and losing it would be
a significant blow to the student community.
Aera Shin Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 I studied here when I was most stressed and it really calmed me down. I love
the atmosphere and this place has been really special to me.
Benjamin Brosseau Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 I am a writer and as such I truly appreciate a quiet space. After visiting all of the
libraries on campus I have found this to be one of a select few that is
consistently quiet, which makes it great for people like me who cannot handle
over stimulating environments. I think that this library's use transcends just
science and business majors and it is approachable to anyone who really
needs some quiet space. As such, since I believe that UW lacks true "quiet"
reading areas, it would be great if this library could remain open. The UW is a
big school and it needs to have some nooks and crannies to help tone down
the hustle and bustle.
Alex Burner Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 Beautiful & peaceful areas are important for inspired reading & learning.
Breathtaking spaces such as the Physics and Astronomy Reading Room help
students develop an attitude of reverence and respect for both the physical and
academic world.
Nicholas Cutlip Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 This library is an amazing place and should be kept open to the community.
vyvy pham Burien, WA 2014-04-04 I feel that closing of ANY library on the UW campus would be a great loss.
August Glover Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 This is easily the best study spot on campus. Why would one repurpose it to
contain a mass of computers for 'eScience'? The view is inspiring and it makes
the Physics Pavilion a destination for more than just engineering students.
Alex Hardison Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 I love Astronomy and this is a great place to study.
Ryan Russell Seattle, WA 2014-04-04 I am a UW student that uses the PARR often.
Rachel Ryan Seattle, WA 2014-04-05 The physics astronomy library is a quiet workspace within the physics building
and houses valuable books and journals.
Jenny Stein Seattle, WA 2014-04-05 I utilize the resources in the Physics/Astronomy library and it'd be a huge
shame to close it down.
Susan Dolland Federal Way, WA 2014-04-05 Both my daughters, current students at the UW value the relative solitude,
serenity and beauty of this space for success in their studies.
Beck Pang Seattle, WA 2014-04-05 I believe that the students have our right to choose the library they want to
keep. Library is a place that need time to accumulate its taste, and we should
be very careful when we need to turn it down.
Diana Landro Bremerton, WA 2014-04-05 I study there
Andrew Melvin Seattle, WA 2014-04-05 I love this library! I have spent time in it many times since I was a freshman.
Always quiet, and the most beautiful view of any campus library.
Karel Reeves Seattle, WA 2014-04-05 A beautiful, peaceful reading space. We need more of them.
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Name Location Date Comment
Susie Dobkins Seattle, WA 2014-04-05 It's important that all different areas of knowledge are represented on our
campus, and that students have a quiet, distraction-free space to concentrate.
Jennifer Ginn Seattle, WA 2014-04-05 I study here and the view is exceptional. Its a fond part of my UW experience. I
have found books here such as A Brief History of Time that have expanded my
mind and engaged me in learning about subjects beyond my major.
Wick Haxton Lake Forest Park, WA 2014-04-06 I frequently use the library during my two-month summer visits to the INT: it is
often the only nearby location for quiet study.
Gordon Watts seattle, WA 2014-04-07 At the very least keep it as useful space for the physics department... Surely
there should be more common goals here.
Charity Coppedge Vancouver, WA 2014-04-08 This is a great, beautiful place to study!
Michelle Haywood Seattle, WA 2014-04-08 This library is important for all physic and astronomy majors to keep their
resources in one spot and a place to study.
BO ZHAO Seattle, WA 2014-04-08 I am a grad student in Physics and Materials Science Department. This library
has been my to go place for literature reading and studying room. There hasn't
been another place like physics library on campus with its quietness. After
many years it already became part of my graduate study pattern and second
home. I couldn't imagine it's being taken away. Please save UW physics library.
Michael Wagman providence, RI 2014-04-08 Quiet, visually appealing spaces are a necessity for serious study. The PARR is
an exemplary example of such a spaced and is used by students from across
disciplines. I know of no similar location that could take its place for us.
William Reinhardt Seattle, WA 2014-04-08 This specialty library is a heart of all collegiality in physics, as it was designed
to be when this new Physics Complex was built. Were it just an "annex," it
would not matter, but it is far, far more than that.
Dustin Chiang Seattle, WA 2014-04-08 This is one of the few places that still works as a library at UW; its's got peace
and quiet and a good environment for focused study. It works as a great place
for facilitating important meetings and tops it all off with the best view for Mt.
Rainier on a bright sunny day. Having the H-bar directly downstairs helps too.
Alan Jamison Seattle, WA 2014-04-08 The library is a beautiful, peaceful space for work, which has helped my work
many times in my nearly seven years as a graduate student at UW. It's also
quiet valuable to have physics books right on hand, both because I frequently
find I need a specific book in the course of my research, and because browsing
at random leads me to books I might never have heard of. The fact that the
number of physics books is slated to be starkly reduced in their being moved to
Suzzallo makes this all the more painful.
Adam Easter Seattle, WA 2014-04-08 This is a beautiful space that would be a shame to lose
William Detmold 2014-04-08 I found the space very useful when I was at UW and in visits since then. It is a
rare space in its tranquility.
Brian Ross Seattle, WA 2014-04-09 This is a great quiet study area in one of the only scenic publicly accessible
spots on campus. If the amount of PUBLIC window space goes down due to
the renovation then I am against it!
David Hertzog Lake Forest Park, WA 2014-04-09 Good for students to study and to see reserve materials in their "home"
department
Alejandro Castro Seattle, WA 2014-04-09 Its a wonderful place to relax and read
Meagan Albright Seattle, WA 2014-04-09 This is the most inspiring place to study on campus. It would be a huge loss to
lose this resource.
Alexander Novokhodko Redmond, WA 2014-04-09 I am a UW student, who intends to major in a science and engineering related
field (probably CE). I believe that the petition and commentary made here
adequately reflects my concerns on this issue.
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Name Location Date Comment
Niklas Mueller Germany 2014-04-09 As a visting graduate student in 2011 and 2012 I realized the impotance of this
place of study as there is basically no other room available, especially for
undergraduates. This is certainly not about having a nice place with a great
view. This is about an integral part of physics education as the libary enables
students to read through books and collect knowledge at the spot and not
alone at home (where there are no comparable ressources and no physics
community around). Science and knowledge comes from interaction, which
means it is crucial that the PARR is kept as one of the important pillars of the
UW's effort for excellence.
Jenny Mae Samson Seattle, WA 2014-04-09 One of the best quiet libraries that UW has, WHY WOULD YOU WANT TO
GET RID OF IT?
Xiangyu Yin Pullman, WA 2014-04-09 As a graduate student in physics, I know the importance of a library for the
department.
Michael Bawel Destin, FL 2014-04-11 I spent numerous hours in this library studying for exams. It is one of the few
lesser known gems left on campus.
Destini Vaile Omaha, NE 2014-04-13 A great place to do research. Perfect atmosphere for studying and working on
problems.
Zach Fregin Seattle, WA 2014-04-13 It is one of my primary study locations, especially on weekends
Sylvia Kowalski Shoreline, WA 2014-04-16 Tranquil, Beautiful, Calm and Comfortable place to learn any subject. Please
Post to Facebook and have all your study buddies sign!
Daniel Gorrie Issaquah, WA 2014-04-16 The PARR is an excellent place to study
Yuliya Baran Seattle, WA 2014-04-16 Indeed, it's a nice place to study
Naomi Musgrave Seattle, WA 2014-04-16 Gorgeous place to study. Just because UW had a bunch of money thrown at it
doesn't mean they can destroy one of the best study spots on campus.
Alvin Loong Woodinville, WA 2014-04-16 As a Liberal Arts student, I rarely trek to south campus, and the top floor of the
Physics building is nowhere near my classes. However, amist the dungeons
that comprise my classes, PARR offers a refuge, where I can find a niche to
contemplate, tucked away from the bustle of Odegaard and Suzzallo. While I
visit PARR far less often than my peers in science majors, I understand the
loss that would be inflicted on all students if such an invaluable location were
restricted to lab and studio use. Please reconsider such an abrupt change, and
I ask for the views of those being served by these facilities-- the students, to be
considered first.
Celvie Tubera Marysville, WA 2014-04-16 Amazing place to study. Quiet and peaceful. Very relaxing. Closest library from
the physics buildings and hitchcock. Save this space!
Elliot Baglini Seattle, WA 2014-04-16 Great view, great vibes to learn in.
Sam Landsman Seattle, WA 2014-04-16 It's a beautiful space.
Michael Von Hippel Seattle, WA 2014-04-16 It is an important resource for physics students, as well as engineering
students.
Katrina Ezis Vista, CA 2014-04-16 This library is both beautiful and tranquil. It allows me to really focus and get
my work done.
Grant Bennett Seattle, WA 2014-04-16 This is a great study space for UW students
Seth Hampson Seattle, WA 2014-04-16 It is an incredible place to study
Steffi Molina Kihei, HI 2014-04-16 This library is my favorite library here at UW.
Mahir Kothary Seattle, WA 2014-04-16 Nice and quiet place to study and its in the perfect place
Angli Liu Seattle, WA 2014-04-16 Because physics and astronomy are at least as important as the so called data
science.
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Name Location Date Comment
Debosmit Ray Seattle, WA 2014-04-16 I go to school at the UW.
Julian Hirsch Seattle, WA 2014-04-16 I am a student at the UW who would like to see that this library be preserved.
Uyseah Ung Tukwila, WA 2014-04-16 I study there often
Hannah Ruwe Seattle, WA 2014-04-16 Because more people need to study in a library where they can learn about
how cool Astronomy is. We exist thanks to Jupiter and the Sun. I need this
library to contemplate my galactic existence.
Patrick Ma Seattle, WA 2014-04-16 It is the small, departmental libraries (open to all) that balance the larger better
known libraries on campus. They provide, in their own way, an integral part of
the overall University character. By virtue of their small, off-the-beaten-path
nature, they offer students a place to retreat, relax, and enrich their college
experience. The closure of even one library has an impact on students.
Jared Tess Seattle, WA 2014-04-16 Save the library for the students
Nicole McKernan Seattle, WA 2014-04-16 Absolutely not.
kirsten ma Seattle, WA 2014-04-16 Departmental libraries are smaller, more intimate, and easier to access than
the larger libraries which are crowded, out of the way (the UW has a large
campus, and trekking to a central library is not always reasonable to study in
between classes), and not focused enough. The closure of one departmental
library impacts a large amount of people. The physics and astronomy library
has a vast amount of resources in the form of information, a place to meet, and
a place to relax while caught up in the storm of college.
Darren Pouv Everett, WA 2014-04-16 Books are important. It pushes me to study Physics.
Jennifer Cheng Lynnwood, WA 2014-04-16 The library is beautiful and motivates people to study physics. This makes me
want to become a physics major.
Sean Aryana Seattle, WA 2014-04-16 This fine establishment shouldn't be replaced.
Heather Eberhart Seattle, WA 2014-04-16 The Physics Astronomy Library is my favorite library at UW.
DANA Washington seattle, WA 2014-04-16 this is a quiet library that has a great view of seattle and is relaxing
alice grette shoreline, WA 2014-04-17 because it is a needed space
Jess Little Sammamish, WA 2014-04-17 This is the most peaceful place that I have found on campus. Please save it!
Helen Jones Seattle, WA 2014-04-17 This library is one of the best library on campus. I spent many hours studying
there. A center for data science could be anywhere on campus.
Margaret Stark Seattle, WA 2014-04-17 It's a quiet place, with a beautiful view, to study without getting the typical stir
crazy feeling of other libraries on campus
Lauren Alexander Seattle, WA 2014-04-18 quiet studying
Samantha Allen Seattle, WA 2014-04-18 It is important to support our students in their studies and I feel like that should
be the primary objective of a University.
Micah Buuck Seattle, WA 2014-04-18 The physics library is an important resource, both in the space it provides to
undergraduate physics students for quiet study, and in the accessibility of
physics texts needed for research.
jennifer veena bellevue, WA 2014-04-23 to study as it is the only peaceful area in campus.
Johanna Robertson Seattle, WA 2014-04-23 data science is not real science!
kattie P kirkland, WA 2014-04-23 to study
Salina Abraham Renton, WA 2014-04-23 It's such a beautiful simple space and I'd love to see it stay that way.
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Name Location Date Comment
Maurice Evans Seattle, WA 2014-04-23 Gutting the beautiful physics & astronomy library is a crime against scholarship,
the heart of which involves engaged contemplation of difficult literature and
ready access to the classics of various fields in the form of books.
A "data center" can go anywhere. The physics/astronomy library is a place
where people actually think. Its removal represents a rape of values dear to this
university and its graduates; contemplation of this proposal is to contemplate
an obscenity of a venal character. Find a new location for the "data center",
sustain the current library and, in so doing, sustain the greatness of our
University. Do not cave to this appalling proposal.
Zachary Parsons Seattle, WA 2014-04-23 One of my favorite places on campus to study as an undergrad, and as a
graduate student in the UW Law School I have continued to enjoy using the
space!
Pearl Terry Seattle, WA 2014-04-23 ITS BEAUTIFUL, its an open space! don't ruin it by throwing in a whole bunch
of computers
Morgan Knighton Seattle, WA 2014-04-23 I agree that finding quiet spaces on UW is increasingly difficult. Please don't
destroy this place of wooden, naturally-lit beauty with cramped metal and
plastic tables for the sake of one more "water cooler".
Alysson Lewis Seattle, WA 2014-04-23 With the renovations to Odegaard and the new Research Commons,
collaborative work is now the priority on campus, leaving students who require
self-study to fend for ourselves. We don't have many places left to sit alone and
work. We do not all learn best by working with others. The Reading Room has
provided many of us a home, complete with amazing views of the city, and
taking that away for ANOTHER collaborative space leaves us with no other
place to fill the gap of what we'll lose with this new studio. Whats more, were
being asked to trust that the changes are in our best interests, that well benefit
from what one can only expect will be another room filled with computers
instead of desks. Yet there has been no effort to present the plans for the Data
Studio to those who could very likely be displaced by these plans. There has
been no effort to consult with us about these changes, or to find out what
students think would improve the space. Of course our departments will sign off
on the project. Grants and better tools are a researchers dream, and who
could turn down $37.5 million and further funding? But what about the
students? Where will we go?
David Westman Seattle, WA 2014-04-23 I use this place!!
nathan olds everett, WA 2014-04-24 libraries are awesome places to study. but im kinda loud so maybe a place to
study and talk would be better.
Marissa Reid Seattle, WA 2014-04-24 This is one of the only libraries on campus that is actually quiet. Redesigning it
to have more noise will ruin one of the only true silent places left on campus.
Nicole Wagman Camp Hill, PA 2014-04-24 I don't go to the school myself, but my brother does, and I toured it when I
visited. I was very impressed with what I saw--but will be less so when places
like this are gone. I know from talking to my brother how valuable and important
a space this library is to him and to other students, and I think it's shameful of
UW to take that away from them.
Gina Durst Seattle, Thailand 2014-04-27 I want a place that is quiet and beautiful to study in! One of the things I most
looked forward to as a potential student was this library. Please save it!
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Name Location Date Comment
Kim Rivera Seattle, WA, WA 2014-04-27 This was a place that I could go to for quiet study and not worry that a bunch of
kids are just there to hang out. If this is turning into anything like the space at
the Allen library, it's going to be noisy and frustrating. Another unique aspect of
the Physics Library is the fact that all of the Physics books are kept there, and
are easily accessible to undergrads, grad students, and faculty alike. Do you
know how much time will be wasted by having to walk over to Suzallo to look
for the book, then walk back? Especially if one is just looking for a verification
of some fact or formula, and they just need to peruse a page? It's completely
ridiculous and a slap in the face to a department who brings in so much money
and prestige to the UW.
Craig Tomlinson Shoreline, WA 2014-04-29 Why is tThis is the University of Washington. Our world is increasingly devoid
of those able to focus. Providing spaces such as these encourages the
cultivation of focus and concentration. The human mind is the most astounding
mechanism in the universe. No computer can replace it. his important to you?
(Optional)
Janine Nemerever Seattle, WA 2014-04-29 The Physics Library is essential to the work of visiting scholars to the Institute
for Nuclear Theory as well as to the students and the rest of the academic
community. It is not a basic service we can afford to lose if we hope to remain
competitive with other universities!
Kayla McLaughlin Seattle, WA 2014-04-29 I greatly enjoy studying in this quiet library. It is more closed small and homey
than the giant suzallo or odegaard library. Plus the view is unbeatable.
Nathaniel Guy Seattle, WA 2014-04-30 The reading room is a beautiful place, and the only reading space dedicated to
astronomy in the whole school! I went there just today and it was quiet, clean,
and had lots of people studying there. We ought to preserve it.
william beaty Seattle, WA 2014-04-30 Physics library isn't powerful, can't defend itself? Every ten years they try this
again.
Creepy dishonest weasel words carefully carefully avoid mentioning of
removing ??% of books. Really. Feynman calls that behavior "Cargo cult
science." Lies of omission, attempts to persuade via distortion, de rigueur in
politics. For shame.
1. Quiet space. 2. Research: Centralized physics book collection, browse
current journals hardcopies.
Michaela Kusumi Seattle, WA 2014-05-02 it's my alma mater and the student body deserves to have a say in this
Katie Hennessey Bothell, WA 2014-05-02 A top-rated graduate program requires library resources that are specific to the
needs of that program --- IF they are doing research!
Dave Joswiak Seattle, WA 2014-05-02 The library is an important research facility for astro and physics books and
science journals. In my work I often need direct access to some of the astro
journals for best quality photomicrographs in order to see details present in the
images. Although many of these journals are on line their online images are of
poor quality (often because they were scanned) thus the need to refer directly
to the journals themselves. I also sometimes use the library space for writing
science papers as the space is ideally suited for concentration. Don't take
away such a valuable resource.
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Recipient: Michael K. Young, Steve Majeski, Ed Lazowska, Scott Anderson, Blayne Heckel,
Lizabeth Betsy Wilson, and Ana Mari Cauce
Letter: Greetings,
We believe the decision to close the Physics and Astronomy Reading Room
(PARR) was made without appropriate consultations with, and adequate
representations from, the body of people that use this unique space in the UW. An
agreement signed by UW Libraries, UW Department of Physics, UW Department
of Astronomy, UW eScience Institute, and UW College of Arts and Sciences
defines a smaller shared space within the current PARR, while the entire space is
substantially transformed to host the new eScience Data Science Studio (DSS).
Unfortunately, this agreement was unknown to most people concerned both before
and after it was signed. Inquiries into why no public announcements were made to
the students concerning the closure of PARR led to the March 7th email from the
chair of the Physics department to Physics undergraduate and graduate students,
announcing impending changes to the PARR.
PARR is a unique space in the UW where students from all over the University of
Washington come together. It is used by students in the department of Philosophy,
Computer Science and Electrical Engineering, Chemistry, Biology, Physics,
Astronomy, by students in the Business School, and also those in other areas. Its
users range from freshmen to graduate students to professors to visiting scholars
who have realized that it is increasingly difficult to find an isolated and inspiring
space on campus to accomplish tasks that require deep concentration and minimal
environmental interruptions. It also facilitates access to a valuable collection of
books and journals that will no longer exist in such a convenient location for
Physicists and Astronomers given the transformation of the space to DSS.
Additionally, PARR performs its function as a proxy library for departments that
have lost their own libraries recently e.g. the Chemistry, Fisheries and
Oceanography departments.
PARR, formerly known as the Physics and Astronomy Library, is and has been an
experience lived by many of the former and current members of the UW, a place
they visit when they return to the campus. It is an invaluable asset to the university
in its role in students' lives. Its spectacular view of Portage Bay, Lake Union and
Mount Rainier, is to be shared and should be open to everyone in the University of
Washington. There is no place better than a library to provide a truly open space
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with universal access, and to offer the quiet and inspiring environment needed for
performing an intellectual work.
As a result, we urge the president of UW, the provost, the associate dean for
research administration and infrastructure at the college of Arts and Sciences, the
director of UW eScience Institute, the chair of department of Astronomy, the chair
of department of Physics, the vice provost for digital initiatives and the dean of
University Libraries to pause the current plans for transforming PARR, to
reconsider their decision after acquiring adequate feedback from the PARRs
current users, to suspend the agreement recently put in place to transform the
PARR into effectively a computer science data help center until they have
understood and quantified its negative impact upon the natural sciences, and
finally to restore PARR to its former status as the Physics and Astronomy Library
once it is confirmed that the majority of students and faculties of the UW favor
such a plan. Additionally, as the graduate and undergraduate students in, and the
alumni of, the College of Arts and Science, we make the following
recommendations:
In future situations where the intellectual environment in the natural sciences may
be negatively impacted by decisions regarding the use of space on campus, the
UW administration is encouraged to better understand and evaluate the impact of
such decisions on the education mission at the undergraduate and graduate level
prior to making them. Further, we encourage the UW administration to seek input
from the students and faculty regarding such changes, and have such a study
complete, and available for feedback, well in advance of actually making the
decision(s). We prefer a UW community that welcomes input from students prior to
making decisions that impact the quality of the student educational experience.
Despite budget cuts at the state level, the UW administration should embrace
academic quality, and the quality of the intellectual environment, in its decision-
making processes (as opposed to, what appears to be, the somewhat
intellectually-limited selection criterion of income grant dollars per square-foot).
We encourage the UW Libraries to engage in discussions with the departments
within the College of Arts and Science, and possibly elsewhere, to identify aspects
of a library space that are important to an academic environment. Access to
information is only one component that continues to evolve, and it would appear
from the current actions that the UW Libraries has so far been unable to identify
and/or acknowledge the other important functions/aspects that a Library plays in
research and education within the natural sciences. The UW Libraries could
benefit from jointly preparing a document detailing the multiple roles that such
spaces play in education in the sciences, in order to provide a resource to the UW
administration for use in future decision-making processes.