The Ultimate Guide to the Best Study Spots at SMU

Let’s be real—finding the perfect study spot is the college version of searching for a soulmate. Some places are too loud, some are too quiet, and some just have bad vibes. Look no further because we’ve done the hard work for you. Whether you need absolute silence, a collaborative space, or a cozy corner with good aesthetics, SMU has plenty of great libraries to suit your preference. Here’s a rundown of the best places to study at SMU.

1. Fondren Library – The Classic Choice

Fondren Library is the go-to study spot for most students, and for good reason. It offers a variety of study environments, from the progressive silent floors to group study rooms. The ground floor is great for collaborative work, while the upper floors provide quiet spaces for those who need to focus. The Reading Room on the second floor in particular is strictly a quiet room with hundreds of books. The fourth floor marries quietness with beautiful Dallas views and lighting that’s a personal favorite of mine when I need to lock in. For a sweet treat break or a coffee catch-up with a friend, you can venture to Starbucks back on the first floor. It’s important to note of all the libraries, Fondren is the only 24-hour library, which I find to be a blessing and a curse.

2. Bridwell Library – The Aesthetic & Peaceful Child

If you’re looking to study with an aesthetic boost, Bridwell Library takes the cake. Bridwell submerges you in a historical realm with rich history books, aged forest green lamps, and sleek wooden desks creating that old-school yet modern academic presence. If you’re gravitating towards a quiet space with an elegant atmosphere, Bridwell is right for you. I’d also reccomend checking out the basement.

3. Cox Business School – The High Tech One

Filled with new renovations and high technology, students find themselves going to Cox’s innovative study spaces, especially when doing group work, zoom meetings, or need a bit to eat from The Exchange or Sclafani’s New York Bagels and Sandwiches. While you’ll probably run into a ton of business majors or people decked out in suits, the study commons are open to every student on campus. Since Cox has classes coming and going, it can get quite noisy and crowded during the day, but has softer chatter at night. Smulibraries.com provides an easy guide to booking any private study space in Cox, Fondren, Bridwell, and Hamon Arts.

4. Hamon Arts Library – A Creative Haven

If you’re an artsy soul or just love a quiet and visually inspiring space, Hamon Arts Library is the perfect spot. Located in the Owen Arts Center in Meadows School of the Arts, this library is a well-kept secret for students looking for a peaceful study area. Hamon’s first level provides a more collaborative space with large tables and comfortable seating. The second and third levels are quieter with more cubicles, tables, and big windows bringing in beautiful natural lighting. These levels also have a few private study rooms with screens you can connect to to prepare for group presentations. Hamon is also known for its extensive collection of books on visual and performing arts available to everyone. Dance performance and business marketing major, Mia Sherrod shares that third floor Hamon is her favorite place to study, but “wishes Hamon was open longer than 10pm.”

5. Dallas Hall Lawn – A Breath of Fresh Air

On days when the weather is a little too good to study inside, Dallas Hall Lawn and a reliable picnic blanket are golden. The iconic lawn gives you the perfect stress-reducing remedy the doctor called for with its sun rays and calming breezes. Doing your homework outside, taking a study break with friends to play spike ball, or having a lengthy hammock session creates an atmosphere on Dallas Hall Lawn that’s truly unmatched.

6. Underwood Law Library – The Hidden Gem

Just when I thought we couldn’t get any quieter than fourth floor Fondren, Underwood Law Library reminded me of who reigns higher as the ultra-quiet study spot. Nestled in the Dedman School of Law, this library provides individual study cubicles, spacious tables, and an overall atmosphere that encourages deeply needed concentration. The Law Library is a great option for students who need to power through lengthy readings or research projects without distractions, and need a touch of law student motivation.

7. Panera Bread at Hughes-Trigg – Study with a Side of Baked Goods

Sometimes the energy boost of a baked good is all you need. The Panera inside the Hughes-Trigg Student Center is a great place for casual studying, especially if you like background noise and easy access to coffee, food, and sweet treats. There’s also an upstairs area with more seating that welcomes a more communal, social studying experience that HT is known for.

8. Foxtrot Market – Off Campus Study Venture

If you’re looking to study off campus with a cozy yet productive space, Foxtrot is where to go. With the coffee shop being a few minutes away from campus, the establishment is filled with SMU students along with Highland Park residents mostly attending the Hillcrest Ave. locations. Having this in mind, Foxtrot caters to SMU students as they close at 9:30pm, giving you a long enough time to stay and work if it’s that kind of study night. Foxtrot can get busy pretty quickly so keep that in mind if you’re more of quieter study person.

Which Study Spot is for You?

Looking at this highlighted list, SMU offers a variety of study spots, ensuring every student can find the perfect place to focus and get work done for their particular studying style. Whether you need a quiet library, a library with busy noise, a collaborative space, or an outdoor setting, these study locations will help you beat midterm season and stay productive throughout the semester. Visit smulibraries.com to find SMU library hours. Happy studying!