Noise Policy

The William A. Wise Law Library has designated noise zones to accommodate patrons' needs for silent study, group collaboration, and the necessary work of the library. Law Library users are expected to adhere to the acceptable noise levels for each floor. During exam periods, all floors of the library will be quiet floors (see Red Zone below) to accommodate the need for more individual study space.

Generally, cell phone conversations are NOT permitted in the Law Library. However, library patrons may engage in brief, quiet cell phone conversations in the sitting area outside the Library’s second floor entrance or in the vestibule outside the Library’s garden-level entrance.

Law Library Noise Zones

Green Zone: Garden Level – Moderate Conversational Noise

The Law Library’s garden level (basement) includes spaces for collaboration and individual study. Users of the collaborative spaces are expected to keep conversations to a moderate noise level to avoid disturbing others using the space for individual study.

Events, classes, and meetings are held throughout the semester on this floor, which will impact its noise level. Please visit the first floor for a quiet study environment during these times.

Yellow Zone: Second Floor – Low Conversational Noise

The Law Library’s circulation and reference desks are located on this floor, so users can expect to hear a low level of conversational noise necessary to assist patrons.

Study groups are strongly encouraged to meet in one of the Law Library’s group study rooms. Please reserve a study room online in advance of group study sessions.

Red Zone: First Floor – Quiet Floor

The Law Library’s first floor is for quiet individual study. Conversations and cell phone usage are strictly prohibited.

Reporting Noise Complaints

You can report noise complaints to lawlibnoisecomplaint@colorado.edu. A librarian will respond to your complaint in a timely, fair, and equitable manner[1].

Library patrons who are disruptive will be asked to lower their noise level. If they do not comply, they will be asked to leave the library.