Scott Library, York University - Image 1
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Scott Library York University

4.2
·156 reviews·Toronto, Canada

A Brutalist architectural gem offering quiet study zones and ample power outlets for York University students.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more seats

CrowdLow
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Scott Library, York University - Image 1

Scott Library York University

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more seats

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A Brutalist architectural gem offering quiet study zones and ample power outlets for York University students.

4.2
(156 reviews)

"It's a great atmosphere, great place to live, lot of people studying, reading, living their lives."

Vertical photo
TIP

🤫 Respect the Silence

Be mindful of noise levels, especially in designated quiet zones. Loud conversations can be disruptive.

🔌 Power Up Your Devices

Plenty of outlets are available, but bring a portable charger just in case.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Brutalist Architecture

Brutalist Architecture

Exterior and interior

Admire the striking Brutalist design, a visual feast for architecture enthusiasts.

TikTok
Quiet Study Havens

Quiet Study Havens

Upper floors

Find dedicated quiet zones perfect for focused individual study and deep concentration.

Reddit
Ample Power Outlets

Ample Power Outlets

Throughout the library

Stay connected and powered up with numerous outlets available for your devices.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Quiet Zones

Scott Library offers dedicated quiet zones, but be mindful of noise levels. While generally conducive to focus, some visitors note occasional loud conversations. Consider bringing headphones for online classes or if you need absolute silence for assignments. Reddit

Securing Your Study Spot

During peak times, especially exam periods, finding a seat can be challenging, particularly for group study. Arrive early or explore upper floors for individual study spaces, which tend to fill up quickly. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more seats
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings (post-peak hours)
Why
Quieter atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Scott Library is stunning ✨ #architecture #architect #design #brutalism #toronto #fyp
@sreidj
19.5K likes • 105.1K views

🤫 Respect the Silence

Be mindful of noise levels, especially in designated quiet zones. Loud conversations can be disruptive. Reddit

🔌 Power Up Your Devices

Plenty of outlets are available, but bring a portable charger just in case. Reddit

ah, i long for the simplicity of pre-covid times❤️ #yorkuniversity #late2019 #late2019tiktok #torontotiktok #yorkuthesix #vaughantok #precovid19 #peepeepoopoo #toronto #vaughan #uoft #ryersonu #ontariounis #italiangirls #portuguesegirls
@cassandrafuoco
601 likes • 13.2K views
#yorku #yorkucampus #universitylife #toronto #unilife
@girlsfromda6
130 likes • 6.6K views

📚 Find Your Nook

Upper floors offer more individual study spots, but they fill up fast. Reddit

🎧 Bring Headphones

Essential for online classes or if you need absolute quiet for assignments. Reddit

Any other good chill spots at YorkU? 🥰 #jawbreakergirl #yorku #york #yorkuniversity #toronto #ontario #canada #ontariouni #tmu #uoft #uwo #mcmaster #uofg #laurier #waterloo
@jawbreakergirl
1.1K likes • 49.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🤫 Respect the Silence

Be mindful of noise levels, especially in designated quiet zones. Loud conversations can be disruptive. Reddit

🔌 Power Up Your Devices

Plenty of outlets are available, but bring a portable charger just in case. Reddit

📚 Find Your Nook

Upper floors offer more individual study spots, but they fill up fast. Reddit

🎧 Bring Headphones

Essential for online classes or if you need absolute quiet for assignments. Reddit

📍 Navigate with Ease

The layout can be confusing; look for signage or ask for directions. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.2
(156 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Scott Library is appreciated for its spaciousness, ample power outlets, and quiet study zones, particularly on upper floors. However, some visitors find noise levels inconsistent, with occasional loud conversations disrupting the focus needed for assignments. Finding group study spots can also be difficult during peak times. Reddit

"The library itself is great, spacious and comfortable for focused students. It is equipped with outlets and a place for our food. It’s just some people who whisper LOUDLY and chat, laugh trying to bond with their friends, and speak even in their own language including guys and girls, becoming obnoxious to those trying to focus such as myself who prefer real silence. I heard one guy had to tell others to become quieter. I agreed but never said anything. It’s not easy to work on very important assignments with people being distracting since a quiet zone is our ideal resolution. Our assignments matter. Also there should be spots created when we have school-related “noise” that may occur, what I mean is, I have online class with a live teacher for a few hours a few evenings a week, so I play it from my phone. Others think I am watching something on WhatsApp or YouTube but I am not. I don’t have any headphones possible to attach to my iPhone and I don’t bring laptop to school or other adapters. I also like that Scott Library is carpeted to relax unlike other areas with outlets in the campus and lack of wifi. So this contains the pros and cons.Thank you."

Rukhsar Shaikh

"Generally a quiet and tidy place to study. There is plenty of space for both collaborative study and individual study, though spaces for the latter (located on the upper floors) fill up fast. It can be difficult to find seating during exam periods, but the quiet atmosphere makes it one of the best places on campus for uninterrupted study."

Andrew P

"Scott Library York University it's a great place lot of people studying reading living their lives sometimes alone sometimes with people is beautiful however is a lot of people some people are very loud talking on their phones but others are just trying to read about the hype of frond capillary beds you can sleep here you could eat here a lot of work done it's a great atmosphere great place to live"

Davi Kavana

What People Like

Spacious and comfortable
Plenty of outlets
Quiet study areas

What People Dislike

Inconsistent noise levels
Difficult to find group spots

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Scott Library is centrally located on the York University Keele campus. You can reach it via public transit by taking the TTC subway to York University Station, followed by a short walk. Driving is also an option, with several parking lots available on campus, though fees apply. TikTok

Yes, York University offers several parking lots around the campus, including those near Scott Library. Check the university's parking services for rates and availability. TikTok

From York University Station, follow the signs towards the central campus. Scott Library is a prominent building and easily accessible by foot. TikTok

Yes, bike racks are typically available around campus, including near major buildings like Scott Library, for cyclists. TikTok

Absolutely. Ride-sharing services can drop you off at designated campus drop-off points, which are usually a short walk from Scott Library. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, access to Scott Library is open to York University students, faculty, and staff. Visitors may be permitted, but it's best to check the official York University Library website for the most current access policies. TikTok

Scott Library's hours vary by semester and can change, especially during exam periods and holidays. Always check the official York University Libraries website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit. Reddit

There is typically no admission fee for Scott Library for York University students and staff. Access for external visitors may be subject to specific policies. TikTok

Yes, York University students can usually book study rooms in Scott Library through the university's library portal. Availability can be limited, especially during busy periods. Reddit

Signage for hold pickups might not always be clear. It's recommended to check the library's website or ask a librarian for the specific location within the library. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Scott Library is known for its quiet study spaces, particularly on the upper floors. However, some visitors note that noise levels can vary, and it's advisable to bring headphones for guaranteed silence. Reddit

Yes, Scott Library is equipped with numerous power outlets throughout its study areas, making it convenient for students to charge their laptops and other devices. Reddit

Generally, covered drinks are permitted in Scott Library, but food consumption might be restricted to designated areas. Check the library's specific policies to be sure. Reddit

While many students leave their belongings to use the restroom, it's generally advised to take valuables with you. Consider leaving less critical items like coats at your seat. Reddit

The Wi-Fi at Scott Library is generally considered reliable for academic purposes, though it can experience congestion during peak usage times. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography for personal use might be permitted, but commercial or professional photography usually requires prior permission from the university. Always check the library's policy on photography. TikTok

The Brutalist architecture of Scott Library offers unique photographic opportunities, both from the exterior and within its distinctive interior spaces. TikTok

While casual social media posts are generally fine, be mindful of other patrons' privacy and avoid disruptive photography. For professional shoots, inquire with the university. TikTok

Its bold concrete forms, geometric patterns, and imposing scale are key features that make Scott Library's Brutalist architecture visually striking and photogenic. TikTok

Drone usage on university campuses is typically heavily regulated and often prohibited without special permits. It's highly unlikely drone footage would be allowed without explicit authorization. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Scott Library is primarily an academic space, its spaciousness and the unique architecture might offer a brief point of interest for older children or teens visiting campus. However, it's not designed as a family entertainment venue, and the emphasis on quiet study means it's best suited for individuals or groups focused on academic work. TikTok

If visiting with family, consider a brief walk-through to appreciate the building's design, but be mindful of maintaining a quiet atmosphere. For younger children, other campus areas or nearby Toronto attractions might be more suitable for exploration. TikTok

🧑‍💻 Students Seeking Focus

Scott Library is a go-to for many York University students seeking a dedicated space for studying. The availability of numerous power outlets and generally quiet upper floors makes it ideal for long study sessions. Reddit Remember to bring headphones to ensure uninterrupted focus, especially if you have online classes or prefer absolute silence. Reddit

Be prepared for potential seating challenges during busy periods, particularly if you're looking for group study spaces. Arriving early is often the best strategy. The library's carpeted floors offer a slightly more relaxed feel compared to other campus areas. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Striking Brutalist Architecture

Scott Library is a prime example of Brutalist architecture, characterized by its raw concrete surfaces, geometric forms, and imposing scale. This style, popular in the mid-20th century, emphasizes functionality and a monumental aesthetic. The library's design, with its exposed concrete and strong lines, creates a unique and memorable visual experience for visitors. TikTok

Many visitors are drawn to the library specifically for its architectural merit. The bold shapes and textures offer a dramatic backdrop for photos and a distinct atmosphere for study. It stands out on campus as a significant piece of architectural design, inviting exploration and appreciation of its form. TikTok

While the Brutalist style can be polarizing, Scott Library's design is often praised for its impact and its ability to create a sense of grandeur within its academic function. It's a space that sparks conversation and offers a different kind of aesthetic compared to more conventional university buildings. TikTok

Navigating Study Spaces and Etiquette

Scott Library offers a variety of study environments, from bustling common areas to hushed individual carrels on the upper floors. While many students appreciate the availability of quiet zones for focused work, the reality can sometimes be different. Some visitors have noted that noise levels can fluctuate, with occasional loud conversations or phone calls disrupting the intended silence. Reddit

To ensure a productive study session, it's highly recommended to bring headphones. This is crucial not only for personal focus but also if you need to participate in online classes or listen to lectures, as using your phone's speaker is generally discouraged. Reddit The library also provides ample power outlets, a significant plus for students needing to keep their devices charged throughout long study sessions. Reddit

Finding a seat, especially for group study, can be a challenge during peak academic periods like midterms and finals. Arriving early or exploring different floors can increase your chances of securing a spot. Be aware of the library's policies regarding food and drink to avoid any issues. Reddit