Inside the Jonathon Larrimer Members Lounge, located to the right of the stairs on the second floor of the RPAC, Eric Lee shares the 40-occupancy room with only his books.

“It’s never crowded, but there are usually other people here,” said Lee, a sophomore in marketing.

Few students know about the areas available on the second-level that boast an unfrequented and peaceful environment; however, the RPAC has seen an increase in the number of students who use its various lounge areas since the Thompson Library shut its doors, said Brandi Walker, facility operations coordinator.

“Most students use the free space/amphitheater area, where people don’t even have to use their Buck-IDs to get in,” Walker said.

Because of the low turn-out, however, Lee said he comes to the upper-level to study at least three times a week since the library closed. In addition to the quiet atmosphere, Lee said he enjoys the comfortable chairs that many students use to nap in.

“It doesn’t feel like an office – it has a relaxed atmosphere,” Lee said.

On the same floor, another study area exists to the left of the stairs that Kyle Kauffman, a senior in sports and leisure, uses at least three times a week. As an RPAC employee, it’s a convenient place to study between work and classes, Kauffman said.

“Up here it’s nicer because there are more seats available. Down in the amphitheater, there is more noise and distractions from people walking by,” Kauffman said.

Michelle Golla, a second-year medical student agrees. Golla said she comes to the exact same table inside the RPAC on the upper-level at least two or three times a week because it’s more open and a brighter space than the medical center’s study areas.

“This is just a cooler place to study, but now I’m concerned more people will find out about my secret, little spot,” Golla said.

Golla also said she enjoys the RPAC so much because it’s cheaper than going to coffee shops and spending money, however, food and drinks are available.

“The best part is the fact that when I need a break I can go workout,” Golla said.

Walker said the diversity of options available is what makes the RPAC so great. In addition to recreational facilities and lounge areas, students can use the demo kitchen and attend seminars that teach students how to cook and eat healthy on a student budget.

“This is more than just a workout space. Students can come here between classes to relax and study,” said Lee Smith, facility manager.