FSU Libraries introduces real-time occupancy reports to help with final exam anxiety

Securing a study space at Florida State University’s Robert Manning Strozier Library during final exam preparations can be challenging due to the influx of students studying, tutoring, reading or relaxing. Late arrivals often face difficulty in finding seating, which contributes to exam-related stress.

To alleviate this issue, University Libraries and Information Technology Services (ITS) at FSU have introduced Occuspace, a real-time occupancy information report for each level, accessible through the myFSU mobile application.

“By using innovative technology like Occuspace, we are not just addressing a logistical challenge, but we are also significantly enhancing the overall student experience during one of the most stressful times of their academic journey,” said Asia McMahon, application developer for myFSU mobile. “This initiative underscores our commitment to leveraging technology to create a more supportive and efficient learning environment for our students.”

Occuspace screens show real-time seating capacity reports for each library floor, ranging from “low” to “very high.” Sensors detect devices connected to FSU Wi-Fi, like smartphones or laptops, to estimate the number of people on any floor.

“The library acquired Occuspace to address the long-standing issue of students struggling to find a seat in Strozier Library,” said Kirsten Kinsley, assessment librarian. “For years, we’ve heard students’ frustration as they searched floor by floor without success.”

Students can monitor Strozier Library’s capacity using the myFSU mobile application. To access this feature, select “Strozier Live Count” from the icons at the top. If the icon is not visible, make sure that your profile is set to “student.” The app provides information on current capacity, peak hours, next-hour capacity estimates and comparisons to the previous week.

To download the myFSU Mobile application visit the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

No personally identifiable information is collected or otherwise archived in this process. Occuspace fully complies with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and with the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA).

For more information on Occuspace’s privacy policy, visit occuspace.io/public/assets/occuPrivacyPolicy.pdf.

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