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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 programs 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

  • Submit your request to reserve the Nexus; questions may be sent to ce-lib@mit.edu.
  • For the 2023-24 academic year, all event approvals will be tentative, with final confirmations issued as follows:
    • Requests for events scheduled to take place on or before February 2, 2024, will be confirmed no later than two weeks in advance
    • Requests for events scheduled to take place between February 5 and  May 24, 2024, will be confirmed no later than one month in advance
    • Requests for events scheduled to take place between May 28 and August 15, 2024, will be confirmed no later than two weeks in advance
    • The timeline for confirming requests scheduled to take place on or after August 16, 2024, will be determined by April 1

Terms of Use

  • The Nexus is a self-service environment; technical support for events is available by contracting with MIT’s A/V Services. On-demand troubleshooting and tech support are not provided by members of the Libraries’ staff.
  • Responsibility for all setup/cleanup, services such as trash and recycling or furniture moving or rentals, A/V services and tech support, catering, etc. are the responsibility of the event sponsor. All events conducted in Libraries spaces must follow all Institute guidelines and protocols (including the events registration process).

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 two weeks 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. Public programs expected to draw a large audience 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.

Food and drink

  • Refreshments served at your event must be consumed in The Nexus.
  • The event sponsor must be present to receive catering orders, and must ensure that all food is removed from the library at the end of the event.
  • No kitchen facilities or separate staging areas are associated with this space.

For approved events

  • All events held in any Libraries space must have a sponsor, who will serve as the main point of contact. Sponsors must be members of the MIT community.
  • The Libraries may require a faculty or staff member to be present during student-run events, depending on the timing and nature of the event.