On Nov 2., the West End Building Computer Lab officially reopened after a nearly seven month closure.
Since March, closure of essential spaces on campus like the WEB Computer Lab have left countless students congested in their homes and in search of a safe and quiet study space with a working computer.
“Towards my last two semesters at Brooklyn College, I was literally there all the time after class was finished,” said Jacki Campbell, a former student and spring 2020 graduate.
To many students, the WEB Computer Lab was more than a study space. It was also a place where students could congregate and decompress.
“When I found out it opened late, I was there even later trying to finish assignments, catch up on reading [and] talking with other people,” said Campbell.
While the computer loan distribution program has eased some stress related to access to resources on campus, many continue to struggle. “While we have the device loan program, getting a laptop/tablet loaned right now can take up to ten days, which is just too long if you need access quickly,” said Maisa Lopes Crispino, an upper senior.
Crispino, a peer mentor at the college, has personally seen how the closure of essential buildings on campus has impacted students. “Some of the students I worked with felt that with both the library and WEB closed, they had no access to technology/study space, since their options at home were limited,” said Crispino.
Nancy Chavez, a senior at Brooklyn College, did not use the space much before its closure, but said, “I do like the idea that it’s finally reopening for students who need it.”
To ensure that the building remains within CDC guidelines, students must reserve a computer by signing up in advance through an online form, allowing students the ability to social distance. Masks must also be worn at all times.
Crispino said she is “torn about them reopening,” because while it is a great resource to many students, COVID-19 cases are rising in Brooklyn again.
“I believe people will adhere to the rules at first but they may want that free flow of how it was before to come back,” said Campbell. “However, during this time in COVID, this is unfortunately the new norm.”
Campbell recalls how packed the WEB Computer lab space used to be, and with finals week rapidly approaching, Campbell is curious how the space will look like this time of year with the pandemic guidelines.
“If you have to reserve spaces and social distance, people will be stressed out,” said Campbell. “It’s because finals are already stressing them out, and to add this factor in, it’s just added stress.”
Since Campbell is an alumni, she will not have access to the space during this time. Only current students may reserve time.
Students must also keep record of whether or not they have had any symptoms within 12 hours of their reserved time, by using the Everbridge Health Screening App on their phones. The app will ask the student questions about how they have been feeling to analyze whether or not they have COVID-19 symptoms. The student must show their results upon arrival.
Students are required to sanitize their devices before and after each use. As stated in a mass email from Anil Lilly, the Manager of Information Technology Services on Thursday, “Any individuals using our facilities will be responsible for cleaning and disinfecting equipment before and after use (supplies will be available) and will need to follow the stated guidelines for everyone’s protection.”
After contacting the lab, the Vanguard was informed that while the space will be wiped down at the start and end of each day, it is on students to keep the space clean throughout the day.
Students looking to reserve a computer may only have up to two hours to complete any necessary work or study within the space. The Vanguard was also informed that there are no updates yet on how more students may be accommodated during finals season. “If additional hours or computer stations are needed, we will consult with Environmental Health and Safety to explore the possibilities,” said Ronald Jackson, Vice President for Student Affairs.
While the lab will remain open from Mondays to Fridays, a strict opening and closing time will be enforced. On Tuesdays and Thursdays it will be open from 1p.m. to 7p.m. whereas every other day will have availability between 8a.m. to 2p.m.