I love being in the library -- any library -- which is good because I spend a lot of time in libraries. I have traveled to libraries around the country and the world for research, and I spend most of my time in the main library on our campus. I start and end each day there and spend my time there whenever I don't have to be elsewhere. I also have a carrel where the 173 books currently checked out in my name reside. I barely fit inside.
Since I log a lot of hours in the library, I have a few thoughts about library style. I guess I could wear anything at all to the library, especially on days that I don't have any other teaching and meetings, but I almost always make an attempt to look put together. First of all, even though I rarely plan to see anyone in the library, I run into friends and colleagues all the time (and students during midterms and finals). More importantly, I feel much better when my clothes are both stylish and comfortable. It's amazing what a colorful scarf or great print can do for my mood, which makes me happier and more productive.
My Library Style Essentials
- A jacket or cardigan. When I'm in the classroom or in a meeting, I tend to generate a lot more heat. I'm talking, moving around, gesturing... but when I'm in the library, I sit still for hours on end. This means that I get pretty cold. For that reason, I try to make sure I wear a jacket or cardigan every day, even when it's nearly 100° like it was today. That way, I don't have to wear the grubby old hoodie I keep in my library carrel for emergencies. This jean jacket is much sleeker!
- A scarf. Our campus library has very few windows and tends toward the dreary side. Not only does this help with the cold, it also helps amp up the coziness and cheeriness. I may not be home on my couch under an afghan and wearing fuzzy slippers, but a soft, bright square of fabric helps! I'm planning to buy a few more this fall... I'm especially excited about getting my hands on one like this. And maybe also this and this.
- Comfortable layers. One of the reasons this skirt has been a great addition to my closet is that it has a stretchy waistband and soft knit fabric. Knit dresses, elastic-waist skirts, and jeans are my go-tos for days I'm planning to camp out at the library. I'm even guilty of wearing leggings (with a long sweater!) when my students won't be around.
jacket: Target | scarf: LOFT | skirt: LOFT [exact on sale in limited sizes] | t-shirt: Banana Republic | shoes: Banana Republic [similar]
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