The IBA Library is meant to be a hub for students to study, complete assignments, conduct research, and work on projects. However, with the Student Center overflowing, the library has become more than a study space. Many students use the library to relax, escape Karachi’s scorching heat, or simply find a comfortable spot on the cushions. While everyone has their reasons for being there, the growing demand for space has led to a serious problem: where do students who genuinely want to study go?
The Space Crisis at IBA Library
If you’ve ever tried finding a seat in the library before midterms or finals, you’ve probably contemplated dropping out instead. Even on regular days, the library looks like the aftermath of a zombie apocalypse—minus the zombies, plus stressed-out students wandering in search of an empty chair.
Although IBA renovated the main campus library nearly a decade ago, it already feels outdated and overburdened. It’s like IBA invited more students but forgot to expand the space. The question is: What’s taking up all this valuable real estate?
The Bookshelves: Dust Collectors or Study Obstructors?
In a desperate attempt to make sense of the situation, we interviewed students from all major programs and asked the ultimate question: “Have you ever read a book from the library outside of your curriculum?” The verdict? 8 out of 10 students said, “No.”
This brings us to an obvious, yet somehow ignored, solution—why are we hoarding books no one reads? Students rarely use the non-curriculum books stacked in the library. If we swap out these neglected shelves for study tables, we might finally have enough space to, you know, study.
A Simple Fix: Less Books, More Desks, Happier Students
Instead of embarking on a billion-rupee renovation project that will take years to complete, why not take the easier route? Remove the excess bookshelves, add more tables, and let the library serve its true purpose. Let’s be real—nobody is going to the library to read 18th-century poetry when their Financial Accounting quiz is in three hours.
Final Thoughts: IBA Library That Works for Students
IBA’s library is in dire need of adaptation. While books are wonderful and knowledge is power, neither of those things matters when you’re sitting on the floor, trying to study for an exam. If we truly want the library to be a productive space, we need to rethink how that space is used.
So, should we remove bookshelves and reclaim the library for studying? Or should we continue pretending that students are secretly reading dusty, untouched books while desperately searching for a seat? The answer, my friends, is as clear as an empty study table (if you can ever find one).
