comments from save uw physics astronomy library petition updated 3rd may 2014

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


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.


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.


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??


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.


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.


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.


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.


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.


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!


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.

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

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.

comments from save uw physics astronomy library petition updated 3rd may 2014

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