Introducing Seat Reservations at the Li Ka Shing Library, Level 4 Quiet Area
Starting August 2026, SMU Libraries will pilot a seat reservation system at the Li Ka Shing Library, Level 4 Quiet Area, making it easier for you to secure a study spot.
How It Works
1
Select your seat
Go to smu-sg.libcal.com/reserve/seat and choose your preferred seat and time using either:
- The floor map — click on your preferred seat on the layout to check availability, OR
- The availability grid — click on a green cell at your preferred time slot next to your preferred seat number, then adjust your end time using the dropdown below
Bookings are available from 8 AM to 11.30 PM during term time, and from 8 AM to 5.30 PM during vacation, up to 1 day in advance. To book ahead, click "Go to Date" below the floor map or use the arrows to navigate between dates.
2
Sign in with your SMU credentials, review your reservation details, and click "Submit my Booking."
3
Scan the QR code at your seat within 15 minutes of your start time. Your browser will ask if you are willing to allow location sharing — please indicate yes (once, or for all time). Seats not checked in will be automatically released for other users to book.
4
Free up your seat for the next person when you leave.
What You Need to Know
- Bookings are open to all SMU students and staff
- Each booking slot is between 1 and 3 hours
- You can make multiple bookings in a day, up to a maximum of 6 hours
- If you do not check in within 15 minutes of your start time, your reservation will be automatically released
- Bookings can be made up to 1 day in advance
Why We're Doing This
Seat hogging is one of the most common frustrations our students raise with us, especially during exam season. This pilot is our way of testing whether a reservation system can make access to study spaces fairer and less stressful for everyone.
This is a trial — which means your experience matters. At the end of the semester, we'll be asking for your feedback to decide whether the system continues, and how it might expand to other spaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reserve more than one seat at a time?
No. Each student can hold one active reservation at a time, but you may make back-to-back bookings up to a daily maximum of 6 hours.
What happens if I'm late?
Your seat will be automatically released 15 minutes after your booking start time if you have not checked in. We recommend arriving on time to avoid losing your reservation.
Why must I allow location settings when checking in?
We require users to be within the library premises to check in.
Can I walk in without a reservation?
Yes. Seats not indicated or numbered in the layout are still available on a first-come-first-served basis. If you would like to reserve a seat on the spot, scan the QR code on any available seat. Do note that seats reserved in advance will be held for their booking holders and are not available for walk-ins.
What if I need to leave early?
Please check out when you leave so that the seat becomes available for other students.
I have more questions — who do I contact?
Drop by the library service desk at Level 2, or reach us at library@smu.edu.sg.
Share Your Experience
Help us make this better. Share your feedback from the link on the checkout screen, and look out for short surveys in September and at the end of the semester. Your input will directly shape whether this service becomes a permanent fixture at SMU Libraries.
