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The University Bookstore and University Libraries will provide numerous chances for students to shake off stress before and during finals week.

The University Bookstore will host a De-Stress Fest on Friday, May 5, from 3-6 p.m., providing therapy dogs from 3-5 p.m., massages from 4-6 p.m. and other pampering activities. Refreshments will be provided. Follow on Twitter for updates.

University Libraries will hold its semiannual Stress-Free Zone on Monday, May 8, and Tuesday, May 9, from 3-5 p.m. in the Garden Room on the first floor of University Library. The event is open to all Kent State students, faculty and staff.

The Stress-Free Zone will provide fresh popcorn, snacks, light refreshments and a visit from . 

“It’s a great place to take a nice break from studying,” says Jasmine Jefferson, first-year experience librarian. “I know finals can be very tedious, so it’s nice to come and play with the dogs and hang out with students.”

This year, University Libraries will incorporate a stress-free lounge and look into opening vacant classrooms to create more quiet spaces for students to study, Jefferson says.

The stress-free lounge, located in Room 152, will have beanbag chairs for students to relax in along with coloring books, games, puzzles and calming music.

“It’s a great space, and it’s quiet,” Jefferson says. “There are so many amenities and resources here for students to use and take advantage of.”

Jefferson says she encourages students to check out other floors of University Library that are quiet floors and are often overlooked, such as the eighth floor.