The new Monticello Library opened on Sunday, Aug. 5 and has already become a popular studying spot for De Soto High School students.

Jared Harper, one of the Assistant Branch Managers, claims this is exactly what he hoped the library would become for students: a place of studying and gathering.

“We wanted the teen population, the high school students, to come in and use this library,” Harper said.

Senior Julia Coverdale enjoys studying at the library due to its accessibility and calming atmosphere.

“It is very quiet and peaceful. It is very conducive to learning,” Coverdale said.

Not only is the atmosphere relaxing, but the library’s layout and modern architecture gives students motivation to be productive.

The library’s upstairs area contains a variety of seating arrangements, from tables to configurable chairs to rolling chairs.

According to Harper, the innovative furniture creates a “sense of privacy while being in the open public.”

Junior Mason Johannes studies at the library and loves the amount of natural light the windows bring into the building.

Johannes stated that the library “is positive and makes [her] want to do [her] homework,” instead of taking a nap or getting distracted like she would at home.

Coverdale and Johannes both agree that the library has led to less procrastinating and more effort being put into their assignments.

The library also provides various resources for students. Such as charging stations by every piece of furniture, access to Wi-Fi, patio seating and seven study rooms that students can rent for study groups.

Harper said that the idea of “mobility and technology” is what makes this library unique and suitable for today’s students.

As the school year progresses, the resources at the Monticello Library will continue to be used by DHS students.  

For more information about the library, visit https://www.jocolibrary.org/locations/monticello.