Library Survival Guide

The Two-Library System: Know the Difference

Somaiya has multiple library spaces, each serving different needs. Understanding which one to use (and when) will save you hours of frustration.

Main Library (The Official One)

What It Is:

• The primary, formal library
• Extensive book collection
• Computer access
• Silent zone enforcement
• ID card required for entry

Best For:

• Borrowing textbooks
• Serious, focused study
• Exam preparation
• Computer/internet access
• Research papers and journals

The Vibe:

• Quiet (enforced)
• Serious studiers only
• Librarians are strict
• Prime seats fill up fast (especially during exams)

Entry Requirements:

• Valid ID card (always)
• No large bags (bag check counter exists)
• Silent phone (or they'll ask you to leave)

Aurobindo Building Open Library (The Hidden Gem)

What It Is:

• Located inside Aurobindo Building
• Open library section with incredible resources
• Less crowded than main library
• More relaxed atmosphere
• Often overlooked by freshers (which is great for you)

Why It's Special: This is where the real treasure is. The open library section houses:

Professional Exam Preparation:

• CA (Chartered Accountancy) preparation books—complete series for all levels
• CS (Company Secretary) advanced materials and reference books
• CMA (Cost & Management Accountancy) resources

Technical & Computer Science:

• Operating Systems textbooks (multiple authors, different editions)
• AI/ML (Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning) books and resources
• Data Structures & Algorithms reference materials
• Computer Networks, Database Management books

Academic Journals & Research:

• Subject-specific academic journals
• Research papers and publications
• Reference materials for projects

General Collection:

• Arts & Commerce subject books
• Business Management resources
• Economics, Sociology, Psychology references

Best For:

• Deep research on specific topics
• Professional exam prep (CA/CS students love this place)
• Technical project work
• When main library is too crowded
• Quiet study with specific books

The Vibe:

• Peaceful, less policed
• Students actually studying (not just "studying")
• Open shelves mean you can browse freely
• Better for long hours without feeling suffocated

Pro Tips for Aurobindo Library:

• Few students know about the full collection—explore all sections
• Great for CS/IT students doing project research
• Perfect spot during exam season when main library is packed
• Books here are reference copies (usually can't be borrowed, read there)
• Tables and seating available, decent lighting

The Library Unwritten Rules (The Real Ones)

1. The Seating Hierarchy (It's Real)

Main Library:

• First Floor: Serious studiers, seniors preparing for competitive exams, the "don't disturb" zone
• Ground Floor: Moderate study, some group whispers (quiet), textbook reading
• Corners: Solo studiers who want zero human interaction

Aurobindo Open Library:

• Window Seats: Prime real estate, morning people claim these
• Corner Tables: For deep focus, minimal distraction
• Near Book Shelves: For people who need to reference multiple books

2. The Phone Rule

Official Policy:

• Silent or switched off
• No calls inside
• No music without earphones

Reality:

• Silent mode, low brightness
• Pretend you're checking "important notes"
• Quick replies are okay
• Step outside for calls (respect)

Violation Consequences:

• Warning glare from librarian
• Actual verbal warning
• Repeat offense = asked to leave
• Don't test it

3. The Food Rule

Official Policy:

• No food or drinks (except water)

Reality:

• Water bottles are universal (keep them)
• Small, silent snacks if you're desperate (biscuits, not chips)
• Never bring food that smells
• Dispose of wrappers properly (don't be that person)

Pro Tip: Eat before coming to the library. Food breaks are for exiting, not sneaking.

4. Seat Reservation Politics

The Problem: Students leave bags/books to "reserve" seats, then disappear for hours.

How to Navigate:

• If stuff has been there for 30+ minutes with no owner, it's fair game (ask librarian first)
• Don't leave your own seat for more than 15-20 minutes
• If you need a break, take your valuables

The Ethical Rule: Don't reserve seats during exam season. It's just cruel.

How to Actually Find What You Need

Books in Main Library

Step-by-Step:

1. Check the Digital Catalog (if available online)

   • Search by title, author, or subject
   • Note the call number (like a book's address)

2. Use the Physical Catalog (old-school card system)

   • Organized alphabetically
   • Find call number

3. Navigate the Shelves

   • Sections are labeled (usually)
   • Call numbers are sequential
   • If lost, ask librarian (they know EVERYTHING)

4. Ask Seniors

   • They know which books are actually useful
   • Which editions are better
   • Which books are never available (high demand)

Borrowing Process:

• Present ID card
• Check due date (usually 7-14 days)
• Renew online if option exists
• Return on time (fines add up, and librarians remember)

Books in Aurobindo Open Library

The Freedom:

• Open shelves = browse freely
• Pick up books, flip through, compare
• No need to ask for each book

The Limitation:

• Most books are reference only (can't borrow)
• Read and take notes there
• Some students take photos of pages (check if allowed)

Pro Tip: Go with a specific goal. It's easy to get lost browsing for hours.

Study Spots: The Strategic Guide

How to Secure a Prime Spot

Timing is Everything:

• Before 9 AM: Your best bet for choice seats
• After 3 PM: Afternoon crowd thins out
• Exam Week: Arrive at 7 AM or don't bother

The Perfect Study Spot Checklist:

• ✓ Power outlet nearby (charge laptop/phone)
• ✓ Not directly under AC (you'll freeze)
• ✓ Not directly under fan (papers fly)
• ✓ Not near the door (constant distraction)
• ✓ Not at a creaky/wobbly table (annoying)
• ✓ Decent natural light (if daytime)
• ✓ Cell signal still works (emergencies)
• ✓ Minimal foot traffic past your seat

Seat Types:

Library Hacks & Pro Tips

For Borrowing Books

1. Check Due Dates Immediately

   • Set phone reminder 2 days before due date
   • Some books have shorter borrowing periods

2. Renew Online (if system allows)

   • Don't wait till last day
   • Some popular books can't be renewed (waitlist exists)

3. Return on Time

   • Fines start small but add up
   • Repeat offenses = borrowing privileges suspended
   • Your academic record can be held for unpaid fines

4. Reserve in Advance (if system allows)

   • Popular textbooks have waiting lists
   • Reserve early in the semester

For Computer Access

1. Log In/Out Properly

   • Don't leave session open
   • Someone will mess with your stuff

2. Clear Browser History

   • Public computer = zero privacy
   • Don't save passwords

3. Time Limits Exist

   • Usually 30-60 minutes
   • Don't argue, just rebook if needed

4. Printing/Scanning:

   • Know the process beforehand
   • Have exact change or UPI ready
   • Save files on USB, not desktop

For Exam Preparation

1. Old Question Papers Are Gold

   • Ask librarian where they're stored
   • Some are digital, some physical
   • Photocopy/download early (demand spikes before exams)

2. Group Study Rooms

   • Some libraries have them
   • Booking required (do it early)
   • Time limits apply

3. Extended Hours During Exams

   • Library hours usually extend
   • Know the exact timings
   • Arrive early, still crowded

4. Reference-Only Books

   • Can't borrow, must read there
   • Take notes or photos (if allowed)

The Library Ecosystem: Know the Characters

The Regulars (You'll Recognize Them)

The Permanent Resident:

• Always there, morning to evening
• Same seat, same routine
• Either super dedicated or avoiding home
• Don't disturb them, they've earned that spot

The Loud Whisperers:

• Group of 3-4 people
• "Studying together" = gossiping quietly
• Librarian gives them The Look regularly
• Eventually they get the hint

The Phone Addict:

• Screen brightness at max
• "Quick check" turns into 30 minutes
• Everyone can see they're on Instagram
• Not fooling anyone

The Power Napper:

• Book open as decoy
• Head on book, actually sleeping
• We've all been there
• Some snore (those get caught)

The Call-Taker:

• Steps outside for calls
• Respectful
• We appreciate them

The Library Staff

The Strict Librarian:

• Enforces every rule
• Sharp eyes, notices everything
• Don't try to test them
• Cross them, and your library experience will suffer

The Helpful Librarian:

• Actually enjoys helping students
• Knows the collection inside-out
• Will go out of their way to find books
• Cherish them, they're rare

The Lunch Break Librarian:

• Always on break when you need them
• "Come back in 10 minutes" (it's 30)
• Not their fault, system issue

When NOT to Go to the Library

Avoid These Times:

1. Exam Week (Unless You're Early):

   • Every seat taken by 9 AM
   • People camping out
   • Stress levels high
   • Go at 7 AM or find alternate spot

2. Right After Lunch (12:30-2:00 PM):

   • Post-lunch drowsiness
   • Study + full stomach = nap
   • Better to go before or after

3. During Campus Events:

   • If event is in same building, chaos
   • Noise, crowd, distractions
   • Library hours might even change

4. If You Need to Take Multiple Calls:

   • Just don't
   • Find another spot
   • Constant in-out is annoying for everyone

Emergency Study Spots (When Library is Full)

1. Aurobindo Open Library (less crowded)
2. Empty classrooms after 4 PM
3. Quiet corners near stairs (less ideal but works)
4. Home (if you have discipline)

"The library doesn't make you smart. But it gives you the space to try."
— Anonymous third-year who practically lived there