You asked. We listened.
Starting August 21st 2008 there will be 24 hour access to all floors of the Thomas Cooper Library (including Fridays and Saturdays). USC students, staff, and faculty members will have a public place to study, as well as access to the Internet, Microsoft Word and library materials. The building will be patrolled by security at all times to ensure a safe study environment. Library departments will be open during regularly scheduled hours.
To enter the building after public hours students, staff and faculty will need their USC CarolinaCard (no other ID can be accepted).
Tips for making your overnight stay successful:
- Remember that all printing is done via your CarolinaCard cash account.
- Photocopying is also done via your CarolinaCard account but two (2) cash copiers are also available.
- Never leave personal items unattended.
- If you anticipate needing research assistance, come to the library well before Reference departments close. See Department Hours.
- Circulation will be open until 2am Sunday through Thursday nights and until 7pm Friday and Saturday to check out books, course reserve items and study rooms.
- If you need a ride back to your residence hall or car from 12:30am until 5am there will be an overnight escort shuttle service available.
With the Library being open 24/7 it is also important that you take safety precautions during the times that you may be in transit. Here is a link to the callbox locations on campus:http://www.sc.edu/bulletin/Call_Boxes/map_quadrants.html.
Safety Tips from the USCPD: (http://www.sc.edu/bulletin/Call_Boxes/Crime_awareness.html)
- Trust your instincts. If a place or situation doesn't feel right, it probably isn't. Leave.
- Avoid shortcuts and isolated areas when walking after dark.
- Don't walk alone after dark. Early evening to late evening, travel only in groups of three or more in well lighted and traveled areas. Use the APO Escort Services 777-DUCK or call for a police escort 777-4215. You can also take the night shuttle which runs until 12:30am during exams.
- When traveling in your vehicle, keep windows and doors locked.
- If approached, don't resist a robber, especially if he has a weapon.
- Never venture into or through dark or undesirable neighborhoods.
- Familiarize yourself with call box locations.
- Don't carry large sums of cash.
- Get a good description of the attacker and locate a safe area in the event of an encounter.
- If attacked or approached by someone suspicious, contact the police immediately by calling 911 or use the nearest call box.