We don’t always get what we want.
We can stand up and have a long list of all the reasons why we should have that thing. We can even recruit our peers to join us in support. It could seem like the most obvious, rational thing to have, but we will not always have that thing.
Equal voting rights? Check. Child labor laws? Check. Widespread marriage equality? Almost, we’re getting there. Longer library hours for USF St. Petersburg students? We’ll see.
Nelson Poynter Library hours are not ideal for those who take advantage of the quiet and resourceful location later in the evening and on weekends. It may not seem as colossal a need in comparison to the other landmark movements, but I don’t think that matters. If there is an issue and more than one person is willing to (figuratively) fight for it, then I’d say that’s awesome. Do it. Progress to any degree is still progress.
Organized, peaceful acts to convey dissatisfaction can be successful. The students who brought dozens of fellow Bulls together in the library had it right. The idea, unique and constructive. The demonstration, not as effective as it could have been, but still a step in the right direction. The demand has been vocalized, and will hopefully be proven soon.
But just because presence might have dwindled down, the necessity doesn’t evaporate. A number of discussions and complaints can be seen on social media at least during final exam week, but the need extends further than that: students, even if they aren’t regulars and only visit a couple nights a week, recognize the desire for longer library hours, for the benefit of individuals and the university as a whole.
I wouldn’t view the lower attendance in a completely negative light. It’s still the beginning of the semester. Students are probably trying to get as much out of these slower weeks as possible, in terms of having a social life. Maybe they didn’t show up not because the wouldn’t take advantage of longer hours, but because they had prior engagements?
That doesn’t make it necessarily right; students should participate in every opportunity to better their university. Students should remind themselves of how convenient extended hours are during final exams, and consider how useful the extension would be throughout the entire semester.
I am anticipating some kind of extension on library hours because I believe in our student body. If enough people come together, if enough people show their support, I think it will happen.
