Sujal Dattarao Bhakare, computer science
From the first rush of students in the morning to late-night study sessions, UB Libraries are alive with energy, ideas and innovation. Across their many spaces and services, the libraries support academic success, creativity and well-being in ways that go far beyond books. It can start with a student unlocking a group study room early Monday morning and end late Friday night with a podcast recording. In between, hundreds of students pass through the University Libraries each week—reading, researching, creating, collaborating and sometimes just taking a moment to breathe.
Early in the week, Silverman Library is buzzing with activity as students take full advantage of the University Libraries’ resources. On the third floor, Sujal Dattarao Bhakare, an undergraduate computer science student, is using one of the two recording studios—an amenity he says has been instrumental to his academic and extracurricular work.
Bhakare is a member of UB Lunabots, a student team competing in NASA’s Lunabotics Competition, which challenges participants to design, build and test a lunar rover.
“Our team had to present live to a panel of NASA judges,” he said. “I used the library’s recording studio on the assigned day to deliver my portion of the presentation, while the rover was streamed live from our lab. The professional setup really enhanced our delivery.”
Their presentation helped UB Lunabots rank among the top 10 teams in the United States. They traveled to the University of Central Florida in May to participate in the in-person qualifiers.
“The studios let me produce high-quality content without needing expensive equipment,” Bhakare said. “I’ve used them several times for interviews and presentations. It gives me confidence to focus on performance, not the setup.”
Kyle Zakowicz, an aerospace engineering undergraduate, also uses the studios.
“The equipment is high quality, and I can ask library staff to set it up. It creates equal opportunity regardless of familiarity,” he said. “The microphones are better than what I have at home. The rooms are almost completely soundproof, and the green screen is great for video projects.”
Rohan Anand, computer science
On the second floor, two students make use of the Equipment Loans program, where UB students, faculty and staff can borrow GoPro cameras, camcorders, headphones, microphones, VR goggles and more.
Rohan Anand, a computer science student focused on data-intensive computing, said, “It’s a privilege to have access to high-quality digital cameras to pursue my passion for photography and vlogging.”
Kristofer Kong, public health
Nearby, Kristofer Kong, a public health major with a minor in nonprofit leadership, agreed.
“The libraries helped me discover my passion for photography and videography,” he said. “Without this support, I might not have found such a meaningful hobby. It opened doors to travel and meet people. I’m so grateful for it.”
The next day at Lockwood Library, Veronica Bargnesi meets with social sciences librarian Carolyn Klotzbach-Russell for a research consultation.
Veronica Bargnesi, English and political science
“The UB Libraries offer so much more than just a study space,” said Bargnesi, a double major in English and political science. “I’m so glad I took advantage of a consultation. The insight I got was more helpful than a quick Google search.”
These sessions help students refine their research and identify valuable sources.
“I was overwhelmed, but after one meeting, I had a clear direction and sources I didn’t know existed,” she said.
Corina Carr, information and library science
Nearby, graduate student Corina Carr staffs the Library Services Desk. Carr, enrolled in the Master of Library and Information Science program, said, “It’s great connecting students with research help, resources and events. I’m always excited to tell them everything here is free.”
Carr answers questions, gives directions, and helps students reserve study rooms.
“People think it’s just books, but we help with so much more. I like being the person who makes the library feel more welcoming,” she said.
In the Charles B. Sears Law Library, Nick Foti, a Juris Doctor candidate, appreciates the quiet.
“I use a study carrel every day,” he said. “It’s a comfortable place to organize, reset between classes, and review my notes.”
Midweek, we spoke with students using group study rooms, one of the Libraries’ most popular resources. The rooms fill up quickly. Whiteboards are covered in diagrams, laptops are open to shared docs, and students collaborate on projects, prep for exams and work together.
“The study rooms in Silverman Library are a convenient, dedicated workspace for our group assignments and study sessions,” said Mateo Alessi, a mechanical engineering undergraduate.
Fellow mechanical engineering student Mary Gannon added, “Working in the study rooms keeps me motivated and focused.”
Later in the afternoon, students gather in Silverman Library for a Stress Relief event. Smiles and conversation fill the room as students pet therapy dogs, solve puzzles, do crafts and play board games.
“I love that the school provides therapy dogs,” said Nicalena Ferraro, a biochemistry major. “It makes me feel like I’m home with my dogs when I’m missing them.”
“Events like this—coloring, sticker journals, making bracelets or petting dogs—give me a healthy break from studying and let me socialize without guilt,” said Sara Finn, a psychology and health and human services major.
“Afterward, I can focus better and sometimes even do better on assignments.”
On the third floor, the LEGO table offers a creative outlet.
Connor Scarpena, an environmental studies undergraduate, said, “The LEGO table lets me unwind and recharge between classes.”
Tina Treherne, criminology
After hours, a student-run club sets up in a multipurpose classroom. Destiny Hopkinson, a legal studies and political science major, co-founded the Legal Scholars Achieving Triumph (L.S.A.T.) Club to support LSAT prep through study sessions, resource sharing and discussions.
“We can request different setups, and tech help is nearby. The rooms are a great size,” she said.
Criminology major Tina Treherne added, “Being in a central study spot in Silverman Library, we invite students to take a break and have fun with us. It’s a perk we don’t get elsewhere.”
It’s not just UB’s North Campus libraries that are a hub for students. At Abbott Library on the South Campus, students gather in collaborative study spaces and the silent study area in the grand Austin Flint Main Reading Room.
Riley Spurr, a speech pathology student, said she and her classmates often meet in the group study spots.
“We use the library as a workspace and a place to socialize. The shared spaces help us work together effectively,” she said.
Late Friday afternoon, the libraries are still busy. Some students head to evening study sessions. Others return equipment or prep for finals.
The University at Buffalo Libraries are more than a place—they’re a community, a classroom and a catalyst for student success.