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Can the temp of the library be increased? It’s so cold

Can the temp of the library be increased? It's so cold [drawing of snowman]
Can the temp of the library be increased? It’s so cold

I’m so sorry you’re cold. So are my human assistants. I’ll report the cold, but don’t get your hopes up too high. Have you ever noticed that part of the stereotypical outfit of a librarian is a cardigan? The library isn’t chilled for our comfort; it’s for the books. They don’t need to be cold, per se, but they do need to be kept dry, and the most efficient way to do that is to remove moisture with an air-conditioning system. Above a certain temperature and humidity, molds begin to multiply, and mold is the the #1 enemy of paper. (Fire is also a problem, of course, but much rarer.) So, my assistants all sympathize, but there’s little we can recommend but to either a) wander the library in search of a less chilled area or b) join the library fashion-world and don a cardigan.

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Is this what you look like naked? :)

Is this what you look like naked? :)
Is this what you look like naked? 🙂

I think what I looked like this past week was more like what it looks like when I leave the house. I haven’t been naked in a long time thanks to all your awesome questions on post-its! But I’m pretty close now, wearing my summer wardrobe.

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Did you have a good time and also learn new things?

Did you have a good time and also learn new things?
Did you have a good time and also learn new things?

I did, thanks! It was a terrific networking opportunity, and the program was excellent, including a thought-provoking and engaging keynote on building a more diverse environment, as well as lightning talks covering a wide range of topics. I got a strong sense that the audience valued my presence and that other libraries may consider inviting a wall of their own to answer questions.

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My grammar is flawless – “on Newton” being an abbreviation for “on Newton Campus” (em-dash may be used to function as a comma above).

My grammar is flawless - "on Newton" being an abbreviation for "on Newton Campus" (em-dash may be used to function as a comma above).
My grammar is flawless – “on Newton” being an abbreviation for “on Newton Campus” (em-dash may be used to function as a comma above).

I’m sorry! Your grammar is indeed perfect, and I’m not sure how I read “on Newton” as anything other than the Newton campus. (If walls could blush, I’d be beet red right now!) I will look into the wilting of flowers on the Newton campus and provide an answer when I find one.

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How do I tell my roommate I do not want to live with him anymore?

How do I tell my roommate I do not want to live with him anymore?
How do I tell my roommate I do not want to live with him anymore?

My advice is to be direct, clear, and steer clear of making it a commentary on his personality or your relationship. Also, give him as much notice as possible so that he will be able to find an alternate roommate or roommates. These sorts of conversations can be awkward and uncomfortable, but trying to avoid them entirely or postpone them as long as possible will only make the experience worse.

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How much money does BC spend on landscaping?

How much money does BC spend on landscaping?
How much money does BC spend on landscaping?

Official word from facilities on the landscaping budget is that “the University has operating expenses upwards of 980 million dollars annually. The landscaping operating costs are perhaps the smallest yearly investment made into the buildings and properties portfolio but it has a great return on investment…” The Wall agrees about the returns. If I weren’t so committed to being vertical, I’d go lie on the lawn and let the blossoms fall on me.

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Why am I so good at everything?

Why am I so good at everything? Why am I so good at everything?
Why am I so good at everything?

I’m so glad everything is going so well for you! I’m always impressed by how talented BC students are, so it is hardly a surprise! Now that you have achieved success at everything you try, I would encourage you to consider two things. First, how can you be a supportive friend and classmate? This might mean serving a cheerleader for your friends or offering to serve as a tutor for those who aren’t having as easy of a time at it. Second, think about whether you might want to challenge yourself more. Are you good at everything because you are avoiding things that seem scary or difficult? If so, maybe you could set yourself a goal of trying one thing that seems interesting but potentially challenging. It’s a great way to avoid boredom and making sure that you aren’t missing out by playing it safe.

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Why are all the flowers on Newton wilting? :(

Why are all the flowers on Newton wilting? :(
Why are all the flowers on Newton wilting? 🙁

Hm…. Did you mean “in” Newton? My Newton area colleagues haven’t noticed a flower-wilting phenomenon there.  In most years, spring flowers follow a succession – early bulbs (crocus & snowdrops), then the yellow explosions of forsythia, then later bulbs (daffodils and other narcissus), then fruit trees like apples and cherries. This year, the late spring meant everything bloomed all at once. It was a feast for the eyes (and a trial for some noses) and all subsided all at once. If there’s a problem specific to Newton Street in Brighton, IDK.

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How do I poop?

How do I poop?
How do I poop?

I’m not sure how you made it to college without learning this critical stage in human development, but the mechanics are fairly simple. Find a toilet, sit, and wait. It will eventually happen. Then wipe. And wash your hands. If you used to do this regularly but are now having trouble, University Health Services can suggest some over-the-counter remedies. If you need inspiration, check out Everyone Poops from the Educational Resource Center – bit.ly/book-poop

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Is it bad if your bf likes weed over you?

Is it bad if your bf likes weed over you?
Is it bad if your bf likes weed over you?

Yes, this seems like it is bad. IAAWNAP, but I would argue both that you deserve more than this, and that if he is placing his use of substances over his relationships, it’s a red flag that he should consider seeking help about it. Why not contact Counseling Services (bit.ly/BC-counseling) and running your question by them?