This week, Emma Stein navigated the maze that is the Law Library. It doesn’t sound like she’ll be going back any time soon. Full review after the jump.

Though it is always a good thing to try new things, the Diamond Law Library at Columbia, located near East Campus, should probably not be one of them. Though the library offers mass numbers of research books about law and quiet, clean study spaces, everything there is riddled by far too much restriction. Unless students are looking for a study space free of computers, printing, food, drinks, and cell phones, steer clear of the Law Library.

The food situation here is dismal—not only is no food available for purchase anywhere nearby, but no food is allowed to be brought in, and unlike in Butler, they do mean it. Daunting signs throughout the library remind users of this ban as well as the prohibition of all cell phones. Though quiet texting would be most likely be acceptable, cell phone beeps elicit glares.

Another thing to note about the library: even if you bring your laptop, there is no Internet access, and while there is a large computer lab located in the Law basement, do not expect to be able to use it—access is limited to law students. Students seeking Internet, even basic e-mail, will not be able to find it here. The same goes for printing—while there are many print stations, some even linked up to the standard Columbia printing system, none of them are available to be used by undergrads.

This same frustration with the computers continues with the study spaces. Though undergrads can use most of the library, including the plushy chairs overlooking the windows on the fourth floor and the ample study spaces on the second, the best study space on the third floor is off limits. With all of these restrictions, the library feels vaguely like a maze of finding what you can and cannot do. Figuring out what you’re allowed to do will be harder than any work you bring.

However, the library is not without some redeeming qualities. It is conveniently located right near East Campus in Jerome L. Greene Hall and has pretty decent hours (open until midnight on all nights except Saturday). Employees are exceptionally helpful and friendly, and the library itself was quiet, with ample seating available.

So, if you are the type of person who likes to simply settle in a seat with a good book (without coffee—unless in a spill-proof cup—food, Internet, or cell phone), then this the place for you. But only then.