As finals approach, try these study spots for quiet, sanity

Finding perfect study spot crucial to crunch time — read on for top 10 places close by

Everyone is anxious to get back home for Winter Break, but one thing stands in the way — final exam week. Instead of stressing over how much you still have to do, pick one of these top places to study and get right down to business.

10. Massanutten Regional Library: If Carrier Library is full, or if you simply need a change of scenery, check out the Massanutten Regional Library, located downtown on 174 S. Main Street. Hours of operation are Monday through Thursday 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., Friday 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

9. Computer Labs: JMU offers several computer labs across campus. These also are great options for places to study, especially if you need access to a computer or certain software programs like Microsoft PowerPoint. Check out www.jmu.edu/computing/labs/hours.shtml for the hours of each individual lab.

8. Barnes & Noble: If you need to get off campus or out of your apartment, Barnes & Noble is a great place to study. Bring your books, get yourself a hot cup of java from Starbucks and sit at one of their tables or on a cozy couch. Junior Jared Buckland plans on going there to study for his three exams. "I like to get my studying done at Barnes & Noble with all the other bookworms," he said.

7. UREC: Use up those leftover Dining Dollars and treat yourself to a smoothie. Bring your books along and pop a squat (no pun intended) at one of the tables downstairs. If you get really stressed or just need a break, take out your frustrations by working out.

6. Transitions/The Loft: Both Transitions and the fourth-floor lounge in Warren Hall provide a nice quiet haven with plenty of space for you to study. There are tons of couches and chairs to lounge on, or you can even sprawl out on the floor and hit the books.

5. Taylor Down Under: TDU is definitely one of the favorites for group studying, but it also can be a great place for individualized study. There is plenty of seating available, not to mention the conveniently located Java City — perfect for a caffeine fix. Limited computers also are available for your studying needs.

4. Your Own Apartment: If you live off campus, your apartment may be your best option for studying. Relax on your bed and take a snack break every now and then to give yourself some brain food. Sophomore Laura Dageforde is planning on studying in the comforts of her apartment. "I’m going to study in my roommate’s room, snuggling under her heated blanket with good music in the background," she said.

3. Study Lounge: If you live in a residence hall, the study lounge might be your best bet. There are too many distractions in your room, but the lounge usually is really quiet and may help you concentrate more easily.

2. Integrated Science and Technology building: Great for studying by yourself or for studying in groups, ISAT offers many tables, couches and private study rooms for you to get down to business.

1. Carrier Library: OK, so it’s obviously the No. 1 choice for studying, but it also gives you the most options. Plus, from Sunday Dec. 5 to Thursday Dec. 9, the library will be open 24 hours. Junior Laura Schaeffer is most productive at Carrier Library. "I always just get all of my studying done at the library — it’s become my second home," she said.