Entire pizza boxes, jars of chocolate paste or remains of microwave meals were spotted regularly by the cleaning crew taking care of MetaForum. “A slice of bread occasionally or a cookie was never a problem for us. Nor was the eating in itself, but the fact that it was not cleaned up did pose a problem”, explains Claire Vereecken, the Front office team leader. “It should be self-evident that one does not eat in an area with lots of computers and books. Gradually this habit has crept in and from now on we are going to tackle this issue more strictly .” Around examination periods in particular it was ‘becoming impossible to keep up with’, according to Vereecken. “At the latest exam period we needed seven extra dumpsters. And although the cleaners are really doing their utmost, they cannot do everything.” 

This was a reason for GOM cleaning company, Internal Affairs and the Information Expertise Center to figure out a solution. Subsequently it was decided not to allow any eating in the library anymore as of September 1. Drinking is still allowed. It is always possible to eat outside the library: in the refectory of MetaForum and at different locations on the first floor.

Employees working at the desk will hold visitors to account when they see anyone eating and/or leaving litter. Meanwhile two banners have been put up as well to draw attention to the eating ban. No sanctions will be imposed for the time being. “We are first going to see how people respond to it to find out whether that direct approach is successful”, Vereecken explains.