‘Revising in an addictive study rhythm’ is how Eindhoven's library is promoting the initiative it has adopted from its colleagues in Amsterdam. That is where the StudyShare concept was developed - and very successfully, says spokesperson Mirjam van Gogh of Eindhoven's library.

In any event, the library is always open to students (and anyone else) looking for a place to work, she is keen to point out. During the last exam period, the hospitality factor was increased a little with such options as having a bite to eat in the library cafe, which extended its hours into the evening, and a “pamper package” of sorts, including a tasty snack or drinks served at your table.

With the new StudyShare, the library is going a step further. The major advantage of this approach, says Van Gogh, is “that it is very structured. You work, for example, to a fixed schedule. This has repeated blocks of 45 minutes of studying followed by a compulsory break of 15 minutes. When you arrive you hand in your cellphone As a result, your study time has a very fixed structure. This can be very helpful, especially for students who find themselves easily distracted and for whom staying focused is a challenge.”

StudyShare makes use of an enclosed area in what is known as the library's theater, in the building on Eindhoven's Emmasingel. Here, under the supervision of a library employee who keeps an eye on both the time and the silence, fourteen people can study in complete peace and quiet - without any hubbub caused by children and other book worms.

Students who want to use this option can register via the site and reserve a free ticket for one or more study blocks. StudyShare is open January 8 through 26, five days a week: Monday through Wednesday from 14.15 to 17.00 hrs, and Thursday and Friday from 10.15 to 13.00 hrs.