NYU Libraries' FAQs

PhD students who have passed their qualifying exams (or equivalent) can apply for access to the Dissertation Writers’ Rooms (DWRs), which are shared office spaces with partitioned desks for quiet and scholarly research. These spaces are swipe-access only. Currently, DWRs are only available at Bobst Library.

Who has Access to the DWRs

GSAS, Silver School of Social Work, Steinhardt, and Stern have provided the library with lists of eligible doctoral students who have automatically been granted access to swipe into the DWRs.

If your school has not provided the library with a list of eligible students, or you find you do not have access and you fit the eligibility requirements below, Email bobst-access@nyu.edu for assistance.

Who’s Eligible to Apply

If your school has not provided the library with a list of eligible students, you can apply for year-long subscription access to several Dissertation Writers’ Rooms in Bobst Library if you meet the following qualifications:

• You are an NYU doctoral student and maintaining matriculation
• You have finished your comprehensive or qualifying exams (or equivalent)
• Your adviser signs off on the application provided to you. Email bobst-access@nyu.edu for assistance.

Policies and Fines

• Subscriptions to Dissertation Writers’ Rooms, along with the assigned storage, are for one academic year (Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters).

• Students who meet eligibility requirements and are in good standing with NYU Libraries may apply for DWR access at any time throughout the academic year (if their school has not provided the library with a list of eligible students), but storage availability will vary based on subscriber usage.

• Dedicated long-term storage for DWRs is limited and available on a first-come-first-served basis. You can request a Moby (mobile storage cabinet) for your research materials by emailing bobst-access@nyu.edu

• A strict “no camping” policy applies to the Dissertation Writers’ Rooms.

• Subscribers may not leave any personal items or research materials unattended in their assigned room.

• Only personal materials and checked-out library materials may be stored in a subscriber’s assigned Moby.

• Inspections of assigned storage are conducted regularly by Library staff authorized to remove materials that violate regulations, and if violations are found on 2 inspection tours, DWR privileges will be permanently revoked.

• Fines may be applied to a subscriber’s library account for uncharged and non-circulating materials, food items, or inappropriately stored beverage items.

Room Locations

Floor 4 DWRs

• 427 (northeast)
• 436 (northwest)

Floor 5 DWR

• 536 (northwest)

Floor 6 DWRs

• 627 (northeast)