The library as a campus spiritual space: evidence from student focus groups

Abstract

Anecdotal evidence implies that students use library spaces for spiritual practices at many colleges and universities. Using focus groups, the authors investigated students’ prayer behaviors on four regional campuses of a large research university, asking questions about students’ frequency of prayer, campus areas used for devotions, and students’ ideal campus prayer space. Students at all four campuses used library spaces for religious or spiritual observances. However, they indicated that a room designated for such activities would be ideal. In selecting a campus location for daily prayer, students reported using whatever space was available and convenient at the time.