Student Series: Cozy Up & Find a Study Spot

Finding the perfect study spot can be a struggle for a lot of students. With finals week approaching for Murray State University, here is a list of great study spots on campus and around the town. Whether you like background noise or a quiet space, we’ve got you covered!

Cozy Up Inside…

Waterfield Library - 3 levels

Located on campus, this spot may be the most convenient option for students. Waterfield Library functions as an active study and learning space! It follows the three level system with a separation of voice level per floor. When you walk into the library, the main level is a “collaboration zone.” If you make your way upstairs, you are heading towards the “quiet zone” where most independent work happens. Heading downstairs into the lowest level of the library, this is a “collaborative zone” as well, however it generally stays fairly quiet throughout the semester.

Pogue Library

Pogue Library adds a historic flair to a students study routine. You have research materials available at your fingertips in one of the most quiet study spots on campus. Whether you want to be at a desk or sitting on a comfortable sofa, they have several options throughout the library.

Calloway County Public Library

Outside of campus is the free public library! Don’t forget to get your library card at zero cost to have regular access to the library’s assets. You can rent private study rooms, log into computers, check out a book to read and use their free Wi-Fi.

Curris Center

This is considered the main hub for student life on campus. Whether you’re in the Starbucks studying with friends, laying on the sofas throughout the different floors or using a stand alone study desk, there are always great options for being productive. If you need a study break walk over to Chick-fil-A or the T-room to grab a bite to eat and refuel your energy!

Murray Donuts

Did you know that there is a cozy loft in Murray Donuts? If not, take a trip, grab a donut and settle yourself upstairs to get some studying done.

Panera

What is better than food and a energetic place to study? We can’t think of it. Settle into a corner booth in Panera with a pair of headphones to drown out the background noise. They offer free Wi-Fi and open outlets for you to be able to charge your devices.

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Get a Cup of Joe…

Shaffer Coffee Co.

Grab your friends and venture off campus to a popular coffee shops in Murray. If your looking for an aesthetic study spot, Shaffer Coffee Co. is the place to go. Complete with an open concept, co-working spaces, and a great menu, you can’t go wrong with this local favorite. Get comfortable, because you won’t want to leave!

5th & Main Coffees

Take a trip downtown to this cozy coffee shop! With the quiet atmosphere and delicious baked goods, it is easy to get comfortable here. I recommend bringing a pair of headphones to ensure you stay on track with your work.

Future Grounds

Within walking distance from the university, this is a great go-to coffee shop to hunker down and get work done throughout your day. They have a great menu featuring hot and cold drinks, as well as delicious handheld foods. Choose your workspace between a bar stool or table top seating.

Starbucks

Quiet study spots may not be your thing, but we have you covered with another favorite right outside of campus. We’re lucky this national chain founds its way to Murray, so students can enjoy their favorite drinks and have ample choices for study locations.

Sit Outside and Enjoy the Fresh Air…

Waterfield Library Breezeway

If you need a quick study session in between your classes during a nice day, take a seat outside of the library underneath the breezeway. It may be a bit noisy, so bring a pair of headphones to drown out the distractions if you are looking to enjoy the fresh air in peace.

The Doran Arboretum

Located right off Main Street near Murray State University’s campus, this is a natural oasis ideal for studying in the fresh air. Grab a blanket or sit at a picnic table to enjoy your time outside. The Arboretum is open from dawn until dusk, and encourages patrons to slow down, take a stroll through native landscaping, and study if you need to!

Renaissance Park

Take a walk around Downtown Murray, and settle yourself on a bench in the Renaissance Park. This is a popular greenspace in the heart of Murray, perfect for a picnic or brushing up on your studies in the sunshine.

Imagination Alley

Find the pocket park in between Peel & Holland and the Bullpen in downtown Murray, and sit awhile in Imagination Alley. Let this fun mural be the muse for your study session. If you’re overwhelmed and need a break, walk around the court square or hop-scotch your way through the alley.

Back Part of the Local Dairy Queen

Ice cream and studying, now that makes it sound more enjoyable. Drive down to a local favorite, Dairy Queen, and find your spot on a picnic table towards the back of the parking lot. This is often overlooked as a place to study, but we are sure you’ll enjoy it and the ice cream of course!

The Quad

Finished with classes for the day? Grab a blanket and catch some rays while studying in the Quad, located in the central part of Murray State’s campus with academic buildings surrounding you. It is a great spot to catch up with friends and get some work done while being outside.