On the surface, college libraries are designated as a place to study, check out books and use the computer. Students know them better as large buildings where they take naps.
The University of Michigan is making their libraries official as the home for naps with their new napping stations. The first station was open just in time for final exams with cots and pillows. According to the Michigan Daily, organizers are working to establish lockers so people can keep their belongings safe during their snoozes.
Library Journal explains how the university's library was chosen:
Like the library’s recent switch to 24/7 service during the school year, the nap station was an idea proposed by students. Central Student Government (CSG) representatives started by surveying over 4,000 students, finding out what they valued most in a potential designated nap space, and found that the top priorities were proximity to study areas and classes, making the library a natural partner. CSG also brought in the expertise of UM professor and sleep researcher Shelley Hershner, M.D., who helped make the case that improving student sleep habits, even in such a small way as providing a designated space to nap, could benefit student health and performance.
Advocates for the nap space hope it will serve as a way to educate students about the health dangers posed by pulling all-nighters or consistently operating on too little sleep. “We want to raise awareness of the detrimental impact of sleep deprivation on student health,” said CSG representative Adrian Bazbaz. “We take a lot of precaution over alcohol abuse, drug abuse, depression, but we haven’t tried to tackle this health issue on campus before.”
There are a few rules, like a 30 minute limit and that all cots must be wiped down after use. If you're sick, please stay away.
UM joins the University of Colorado at Boulder, which opened a napping spot on campus several years ago. Students proposed the idea at Harvard University in 2013.