Rowan-Virtua SOM’s Hope Brings Strength (HBS) Health Sciences Library has officially launched a 24/7 beta phase. This beta phase, running through December 2025, will allow the library team to evaluate round-the-clock usage and refine policies to best support the needs of Rowan-Virtua SOM, Translational Biomedical Engineering and Sciences (TBES), and Virtua/Our Lady of Lourdes Nursing students, faculty, and staff.

This milestone was made possible through strong student advocacy and partnership with campus leadership, including ongoing support from SGA representatives. SGA President Jyothi Maruthanal explains the origin and impact of this beta phase:

 “As SGA, we heard from many students who struggled to find quiet study spaces later in the evening, so advocating for 24/7 library access was about supporting different study habits and promoting student success. Extending the hours has been transformative for students who thrive in late-night study environments, and it is great to see everyone using the space responsibly and making the most of the opportunity. We are especially grateful to all the SGA members, this year and last, for their continued dedication in seeing this through.”

This initiative reinforces the library’s commitment to providing a supportive learning environment built on accessibility, trust, and student-driven change. “It was a fun challenge to make this change happen. Best of all was hearing the students’ excitement the day we launched and decorated for 24/7. I hope the flexible round-the-clock access will make their academic workloads feel a little bit lighter,” said Access Services Supervisor Nicole Morfitt.

During staffed service hours, students will continue to have access to check-out support, interlibrary loan, and research assistance. After-hours entry will be available through Rowan ID card swipe, with core study spaces and small rooms remaining open at all times.

Kevin Block, Director of the Health Sciences Libraries reflects – “This marks one of the most significant changes in the history of the Rowan-Virtua SOM library, and I’m glad that after years of student requests for extended library hours, we’ve made it happen. More hours mean greater flexibility for study, research, and academic success, and it wouldn’t have been possible without collaboration between the students, Rowan-Virtua SOM administration, and the Hope Brings Strength Health Sciences Library team.”