Rating Queen's Study Spots: Stauffer

If you’ve ever spent 15 minutes walking in circles around Stauffer clutching your laptop and silently praying for an open seat — this one’s for you.

Stauffer is the main library at Queen’s, and it’s probably the first place that comes to mind when you think “study spot.” It’s big, central, and has that iconic campus energy. But can you actually lock in there? We went to find out.

Quick recap of our Stauffer review!

1. Seat Availability — 4/10

We went around 5 p.m. to test it out, and honestly, we got very lucky. We found a table right away, which almost never happens. Usually, it’s a lot of aimless wandering, pretending you’re checking your phone while quietly scouting who looks like they’re about to leave.

To be fair, the recent Stauffer renovations and the new JDUC have taken a bit of pressure off, but it’s still busy. You’re not finding a seat at peak hours unless someone else gets up first.

2. Power Outlet Access — 10/10

Outlets are one thing Stauffer does right. You’ll always find one, no matter where you sit. I never worry about my laptop dying here.

3. Noise Level — 5/10

The noise level really depends on the floor. The ground level can get loud — people doing group work, chatting, or just using it as a social space. It’s fine if that’s the energy you’re looking for, but if you actually need to focus, head upstairs. It’s much quieter and people tend to respect that.

If you’re working with a partner, though, please don’t go to the upper floors. Everyone up there is trying to focus and will definitely give you a look.

Here's what the noise level was like on the ground floor

4. Vibe — 5/10

Vibe-wise, Stauffer is hit or miss. It’s bright, but not in a nice way — the fluorescent lighting feels harsh, and the energy can be overstimulating. It's incredibly busy, so you’re almost guaranteed to run into someone you know and have an unskippable NPC interaction.

When we went, the fire alarm went off mid-study, and everyone had to evacuate. It felt very on brand for Stauffer: chaotic, unpredictable, and somehow loud even when you’re trying to focus. I’ve even heard random animal noises playing from the speakers in the past, which kind of sums it up.

Still, I’ll give it credit where it’s due. There are tucked-away corners that are quieter, and the resource desk is actually really helpful — you can borrow chargers or headphones if you forget yours.

The fire alarm went off an hour into the work session :/

5. Proximity to Caffeine & Snacks — 8/10

One of Stauffer’s best things is its location. It’s close to everything — classes, the ARC, Starbucks. You can grab food without having to walk far, and the ARC options are affordable. If you want to save time, order through the QMobile app and just pick it up. That way, you don’t lose your seat in the time it takes to stand in line.

The Lock-In Index

Category	Score
Noise Level	5/10
Seat Availability	4/10
Vibe	5/10
Caffeine & Snacks	8/10
Outlets	10/10
Total	32/50

Verdict: Depends on the Day (32/50)

Stauffer is a classic, but not the best place to study on campus. Some days you’ll get a quiet corner and a great study session. Other days, you’ll get a fire alarm and three distractions before you even open your laptop.

If you can handle the crowd and find a seat, it’s fine. But if you’re someone who needs calm to focus, there are better options on campus.

Lock-In Rating: ⚖️ Depends on the Day

Would we go back? Probably, but with noise-cancelling headphones.