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The Nexus use policy

The MIT Libraries welcome requests from MIT groups to use our event space (The Nexus, 14S-130 in Hayden Library) for the following types of events:

  • Educational, cultural, or community wellness events sponsored by MIT community members that occur during normal open hours and that do not require closing the library to general use.
  • Orientation and instructional events that highlight Libraries’ programs, services, or resources

We regret that The Nexus may not be scheduled for meetings.

Scheduling

Scheduling of The Nexus is handled by the Director of Community Engagement (Nina Davis-Millis). Submit your request; questions may be sent to cespaces-lib@mit.edu.

Equipment and Furniture

  • The Nexus has a built-in A/V system that includes three projectors, a room camera, a sound system, wireless microphones, and audio assistive devices. If you plan to use this equipment, allow at least a week before your event to schedule a brief training session.
  • Wired and wireless connections are available for laptops or mobile devices.
  • The room’s capacity is 50 seated or 100 standing. Larger groups may be accommodated by opening the room’s bifold door and extending overflow into the reading room; approval for such events will involve additional considerations including the nature of the event and the time of day.
  • The room is equipped with 11 tables, 84 chairs, and 6 mobile whiteboards. The room’s east wall is a writable surface for dry-erase markers only.
  • The Nexus is a self-service environment; technical support for events is only available by contracting with MIT’s A/V Services. On-demand troubleshooting and tech support are not provided by members of the Libraries’ staff.

Physical Arrangement of the Room

Any person or group who rearranges the furniture in the room must return it to its standard configuration.

Food and Drink

  • Refreshments served at your event must be consumed in The Nexus.
  • Event leads are responsible for observing MIT’s policy on eating indoors during the COVID pandemic.
  • Unless specific arrangements are made in advance with the Libraries’ event host, the event lead must be present to receive catering orders.
  • No kitchen facilities or separate staging areas are associated with this space.

For approved events:

  • All events held in any Libraries space must have  an event lead, who will serve as the main point of contact. Event leads must be members of the MIT community.
  • All events must have an MIT Libraries staff member serve as host. The host will assist the event lead in coordinating event logistics.
  • The Libraries may require a faculty or staff member to be present during student-run events, depending on the nature of the event.
  • Responsibility for all setup/cleanup, services such as trash and recycling or furniture moving or rentals, A/V services and tech support, catering, etc. will be clearly agreed on at the time an event is scheduled. Resources for event planning can be found in the Institute Event Planning Guide.
  • All events conducted in Libraries spaces must follow all Institute guidelines and protocols (including all COVID safety policies and the events registration process).