KU campus adds new reflection room options

LAWRENCE — The University of Kansas has new reflection room options for students, faculty and staff this fall.

KU Libraries have set aside space for individuals of all faiths and beliefs who want quiet space for reflection, meditation or prayer. The new rooms, 585 Watson and 320L Anschutz, are available for use during regularly scheduled building hours, found on the KU Libraries website. 

“I am pleased to announce these rooms are open for use,” said Kevin L. Smith, dean of KU Libraries. “We are continually prioritizing ways to make the libraries spaces more inclusive and responsive to the needs of faculty, staff and students.” 

The new reflection rooms are in addition to Danforth Chapel and the Kansas Union’s temporary space, 310A on the third floor of the Union. The reflection room in the Union is open during the building’s regular operating hours. Guidelines for using the reflection rooms remain the same.

“As the community center at KU, we’re happy to support this effort,” said David Mucci, director of the KU Memorial Unions. A permanent reflection room is planned for the new union being built as part of the Central District redevelopment.

The initial reflection room was a Student Senate-led initiative working in conjunction with the Office of Diversity & Equity and KU Memorial Unions in 2015.