I wish the Cabell library had more comfortable chairs. I love the
extended hours during exams but not at the expense of my back. I
realized that VCU just got new furniture in the library and that it is
expensive but more cushions might help imporve my ability to concentrate
on my studying over the next few years.

Interim Associate University Librarian for Public Services Barbara Anderson replies...

Thank you for your suggestions. Believe me, I feel your pain! I've been
working in Cabell Library for more than 20 years and a lot of the chairs
on our 2nd - 4th floors have been here even longer than that! They were
in style when those floors were furnished in the 1970's. When I got here
they had already gone out of style, and now they're practically "retro,"
if not antique. But one thing they've probably never been is comfortable.

We are anticipating some physical changes and improvements in Cabell
Library within the next several years, and we have had some serious
discussions recently about beginning the process of replacing the tables,
chairs and study carrels on the 2nd - 4th floors with furniture that is in
a style comparable to the newer seating on the 1st floor. When and how
much of this we can do in the short term will depend on the state of the
Libraries' funding. We are just now beginning to prioritize our spending
plans for next year based on preliminary information about the 2005/06
budget.

In the meantime, please be aware that we understand your discomfort. We
want Cabell Library to welcome students with study spaces that are
inviting, aesthetically pleasing and ergonomic, and we will do what we can
to accomplish this as funding allows.

P.S. I hope you're giving yourself plenty of study breaks and reminding
yourself to get up and stretch or move around. It won't make our chairs
any more comfortable, but it might help your aching back.