McWherter Library is divided into three noise zones: Collaborative, Quiet, and Silent. Each one is designed for different academic work, projects, and meetings. Find descriptions and locations for each zone below or on the McWherter Library floor plans.
To report noise disturbance or inappropriate behavior, notify a nearby Libraries employee, call 901.678.2205, or click the chat with a librarian widget on the Libraries’ homepage.
Complete policies and enforcement information is located in the linked Courtesy & Noise Policy at the bottom.
Collaborative Zones
- Collaborative zones are designated for group work and normal-volume conversation that does not disturb anyone else nearby.
- While in a collaborative zone, be considerate of those around you, as nearby spaces may be designated as quiet or silent.
- Collaborative zones include the 1st Floor, 2nd Floor Commons Area, and Group Study Rooms (3rd & 4th Floors).
Quiet Zones
- Quiet zones are designated for low-volume conversation.
- Quiet Zones include the 2nd Floor East Side (book stacks & study tables), 3rd Floor (East Side book stacks, computers, study tables, and study carrels), and Group Study Tables beside the 4th Floor Group Study Rooms.
Silent Zones
- Silent zones are designated for no conversation.
- Any areas directly near a silent zone should be a presumed quiet zone.
- The silent zone includes the 4th Floor (East Side book stacks, computers, study tables, and study carrels).
Listening to Media & Video and Phone Conversations
- In open spaces, media should be listened to via headphones and not be audible to anyone nearby.
- Headphones are available to borrow at the Checkout Desk on the 1st floor.
- In enclosed spaces, media may be listened to without headphones only if needed for collaborative, academic work.
