The time is overdue for Spartans to receive a simple lesson in the English language. Contrary to what seems to be the popular belief, the words "library" and "telephone booth" are not synonymous.
MSU's undergraduate student government is right to advise MSU libraries to ban cell phone use from the university's main study areas. ASMSU's recommendations, which would allow for cell phone use in stairwells, entryways and bathrooms, are set to be considered by the University Committee for the Library before being sent on to the library director for final approval.
The committee and director would be justified in implementing ASMSU's recommendations to help ensure Spartans have a proper place to study, free of distractions by things such as cell phone conversations about that wicked party last weekend.
The saddest thing about such a policy would be the fact it had to be implemented in the first place.
It's a shame so many students lack courtesy and respect for their classmates who venture to the library to study rather than socialize.
There are things in life that people simply should not do. People should not smoke at gas stations just like people should not talk in libraries.
Although people generally adhere to the rules against smoking while pumping gas (presumably because they don't want to explode), few comply to the talk-free designation of libraries (perhaps, they would if there was a chance they would explode).
Unfortunately, the decibel level in the Main Library has increased along with the growing popularity and use of cell phones in East Lansing. It's time the annoying rings and loud voices there should be quieted.
ASMSU's recommendations for an MSU Library cell phone ban are not unreasonable, as it allows for the contraptions to be used in said designated areas. It's not as if cell phone users are being asked to freeze during winter months with the smokers who are forced outside the building.
The Main Library is not a telephone booth or forum for social gatherings. It is a resource meant to aid the advancement or learning. Spartans who are serious about advancing their education take refuge within its walls.
Granted, no person with any amount of common sense expects the library's first floor to be sterile of noise or commotion. But there are reasonable limits to the acceptable number of distractions in that area.
Dozens of people with cell phones attached to their ears is not one of them.
We hope the university's library committee and director act with a sense of haste to follow through on ASMSU's lead to heed the calls of Spartans who find it hard to use the MSU Main Library as it was meant to be used - as a study hall.
