Finals approaching means a dangerous amount of time is about to be spent in the library. While the so-called, “silent” section is more of a “whisper” section any other week of the year, when it comes to finals silence is key.
Eating is also key, but none of us want to be “that kid” who disturbs the silence with their crinkling, chewing, and crunching. With these helpful tips, you will never have to face the glares that come with enjoying your delicious yet noisy food in the silent section.
The Hummus Cup
Photo by Jessie Fitts
Good ol’ Sabra is usually a reliable pick me up, that is until you have to deal with its multi-layer packaging.
The first obstacle is the miles of plastic holding the individual hummus and pretzel cups together, and then you have to face the aluminum foil lids. Just when you think you’re in the clear there is the “crunch” that comes with every hummus filled bite.
All of this crinkling and crunching will for sure get you dirty looks.
Solution: Open the hummus before hand (and chew really, really, slowly).
Apple
Photo by Jessie Fitts
It is impossible to concentrate when listening to the repeated sound of teeth sinking into an apple, especially if it’s extra big and crispy. And if the apple is juicy enough, there is no avoiding the familiar slurp to catch all of the juicy goodness.
Solution: Pre-cut your apples! Minimal juice and crunch.
Chips
Photo by Jessie Fitts
There is nothing greater than a salty snack while studying, but we all know those plastic bags are a disaster waiting to happen. Not only the opening of the bag, but the individual chip crunch could not be louder. A definite no-go for the silent section.
Solution: Rip the bag open like a band aid- quick and easy.
Salad
Photo by Jessie Fitts
It is likely that the amount of work you have accumulated leaves no time for real meals, and requires you bring your salad to Boatwright. However, if you’re like me and need your dressing perfectly dispersed, you have no choice but to do the salad dance (in which you shake your salad and your hips side to side), which is underratedly LOUD.
Solution: There is none, just don’t do it.
Ultimate solution: You’re always safe with a cupcake.
Photo by Ali Schaffir
Especially a Carytown Cupcake.
Photo by Ali Schaffir
For more tips on library etiquette: