The UCSD Libraries recently changed their food and drink policy to allow water bottles and other liquids in a specific, library-approved mug.
“”Most library users wanted this change,”” said Julie Page, preservations librarian for the UCSD Libraries. “”The no-drink policy has been difficult to enforce.””
The libraries have modified their regulations in two specific ways, Page said. First, they are now allowing clear water bottles with tight sports tops to be brought into the library. These may contain only water.
Second, UCSD is adopting a leak-proof mug design for use in the libraries, featuring a spout that requires pressure from the fingers to open. Once the pressure is released, the spout closes to produce a leak-proof seal. This mug was tested at UCLA for two years.
“”We weren’t initially planning to change our policy,”” Page said. “”However, once we tried UCLA’s design ourselves, we were extremely satisfied.””
The UCSD Libraries have teamed up with Housing and Dining Services to make the mug available to students. The mug can now be purchased at all dining locations on campus, as well as the Sunshine Store, for the price of $3.75, which includes a free drink. Refills through use of the mug are also discounted at dining locations.
The library staff chose the logo and design of the mug. The library receives no proceeds from the mug’s sales, while Housing and Dining Services retains a small profit.
Any nonalcoholic beverage can be brought into the libraries when it is contained in these mugs.
“”I’ve brought water bottles into the library before and have gotten caught,”” said Kevin Mikolaitus, an Earl Warren College junior. “”I mean, I understand why they don’t allow food and drinks, but studying makes me thirsty. This is definitely a good development. I’m planning on getting one of those mugs.””
Food and drink have been banned from the library for numerous reasons, including the potential damage to books by spilled liquids, grease stains or by the insects and rodents that food and crumbs attract.
Thus, beverages that do not follow the libraries’ new regulations, as well as all food items, are still not allowed on library premises.
