Why We Support This Change:

• Increased Fairness and Reduced "No-Shows": The previous system, which allowed booking an entire week's worth of workspace at once, led to a significant number of "no-shows" – reserved but unused spaces. This deprived other students of access to valuable study areas. The rolling 7-day system encourages more realistic booking habits, as students are less likely to reserve spaces they may not actually need. This aligns with the University Library's efforts to address the problem of no-shows, as highlighted in their workspace survey results.
• More Equitable Access: The new system levels the playing field. Previously, those who were able to log in at a specific early morning time each week had an unfair advantage in securing desirable workspaces for the entire week. The rolling window provides everyone with a more equal opportunity to book spaces as their needs arise throughout the week.
• Adaptability and Flexibility: While some argue that the new system hinders planning, it actually promotes greater flexibility. Students can adapt their study schedules and book spaces closer to the actual study time, allowing for adjustments based on changing priorities, deadlines, and personal circumstances.
• Improved Resource Management: The rolling booking system allows the University Library to better manage its resources. By reducing the number of unused reservations, they can gain a clearer understanding of actual demand and optimize workspace allocation accordingly.
• Addresses IT Security Concerns: As the UZH clearly states, the change is linked to critical IT security updates, including the implementation of multi-factor authentication (MFA). Supporting this change is supporting the overall security of the University's systems.

Countering the Original Petition's Concerns:

• "Unübersichtlicher und stressiger": While the new system requires a slight adjustment, it quickly becomes routine. Setting a simple reminder on your phone or calendar can easily mitigate any potential forgetfulness. The slight increase in frequency is a small price to pay for a system that benefits the entire student body.
• "Schlechter planbar": True planning involves adaptability. The rolling system allows for more accurate and realistic scheduling, preventing students from over-committing to study times they may not actually use.
• "Ungerecht": The opposite is true! The previous system was inherently unfair, favoring those with the ability to book first. The new system is more just by giving everyone a more level playing field.
• "Mehr Aufwand für alle": The minimal increase in booking frequency is outweighed by the benefits of increased access, reduced no-shows, and more efficient resource allocation.

We urge the University Library to maintain the new rolling 7-day booking system. We believe it is a positive change that will ultimately improve the learning environment for all students.
Thank you for your consideration.