In the basement of the School of Education sits the Pickering Educational Resources Library (PERL), a library that perhaps some have heard of, but few have seen with their own eyes. Open 12.5 hours a day Monday-Thursday, as well as for limited weekend hours, one would expect more than an average of 100 visitors on a daily basis—but unfortunately, this is not the case. The under-acknowledgment of this library is sad, as I find it to be one of my favorite libraries on campus.
The luxuries of PERL lie in its small, more personalized nature. Free tea and coffee are offered daily, as long as you bring your own mug. Since it is a small library, it makes for a cozy place to do your homework, especially if you live in east campus and don’t want to walk to Mugar. This homely feeling is further endorsed by the arts and crafts decorations scattered around the library, along with the numerous children’s books lining the walls. How could you not smile knowing that if you need a study break, you can take Goodnight Moon off of the shelf, start reading and bring yourself back to your childhood?
Even if children’s literature and educational resources are not your cup of tea, PERL has so much to offer. Printing, photocopying, and free scanning are available to anyone who needs. A computer lab is conveniently located in back for student use. With its multiple tables around the library, PERL is a great place for group meetings and projects. Personal study desks are also offered, if you prefer a more personal study setting. The New York Times and Boston Globe are delivered daily, so you can stop by and save money on a subscription (a note especially for Communication students).
The moral of the story: Come visit PERL. It’s a great place.
