Q. As a visitor, can I stay in the building after closing if I'm already inside?

There are two different scenarios in which this could apply, but the answer to both is no:

1. If the library is actually closing (Friday and Saturday nights, during the summer or other reduced hour periods, and holidays), no one is allowed to remain in the building after hours. Bells will sound and the lights will turn off to notify patrons that the library will be closing soon; this is everyone's cue to begin wrapping up their work. At closing, the building must be vacated by all patrons, visitors and Rice ID holders alike.
2. During the regular school year, the library "closes" to visitors at a certain hour, but remains open to students and staff with valid IDs. At that time, all non-Rice ID holders must leave the building, but are welcome to return the next day at opening. The library's extended overnight hours are only for current Rice ID holders.

Our open visitor hours are viewable on our website.