When I was in uni, I was constantly on the search for places that optimised ‘study vibes’. How do you define this? A place to go that was not the brain-dead silent level of the uni library (although it made a great place to nap), or the white-walled tutorial rooms, but somewhere to maximise productivity and minimise the feels of drowning in a textbook.

To help a student out in the upcoming exam period, here’s a list of best-vibe venues that provide a well-needed break from campus.

Makeshift- New Acton

A comfy retro-fitted café in the ground floor of the eclectic Nishi building, this café almost looks like it was made for studying. Sit on the high chairs or on the comfy old-school couches and surround yourself with book shelfs, timber floors and plants. Complement this with a brew from Redbrick and fresh pastries and get lost in the space.

Open 7am-4pm daily

National Library- Canberra

A grandness comes over you when you walk through the main entrance of this library, to your left you’ll find a bookshop with that comforting new book smell; on your right the eye-catching mosaics which window the award-winning Bookplate café. Surround yourself with a crowd of workers looking for somewhere inspiring away from campus. Plus, take advantage of the resources and research tools.

Open Mon-Thurs 10am-8pm, Fri 10am-5pm, Sat 10am-5pm and Sun 1.30pm-5pm

Teddy Picker’s- Campbell

With a name as friendly as Teddy Picker’s, they have a bright and airy space and friendly staff to make studying that little bit more pleasant. Find exposed concrete and lofty ceilings with the quirks of hanging plants and a large floating bookshelf. Plus, their coffee menu will keep you inspired with nitrogen cold-brews and local specialty teas or even a cheeky wine.

Open 6.30am – 3pm weekdays, 8am – 3pm weekends

Common Grounds- Gowrie

For the Southsiders who don’t want to travel far, this one’s a hidden gem nestled in the ‘burbs. Choose to sit inside their intimate space, or outside in the courtyard for a cool breeze to get the mind ticking.

Open 7.30am – 3.30pm weekdays, 8am – 3pm weekends

Muse- Kingston

In the stylish East Hotel, Muse is filled with the magic of good food, great wine and books. Their wall of handmade books makes the ideal space for reading enthusiasts and is sure to inspire any literary thinking. Their selection of handbooks are on sale during restaurant opening hours if you’re feeling some sneaky down-time.

Open Mon – Tues 6.30am -3pm, Wed – Fri – 6.30am – 10pm, Sat &am – 12pm, Sun 7am – 10pm

Wollemi Ethical Store and Cafe- Braddon

Brand new to the shores of Braddon, this café offers delicious plant-based meals and treats, ethically sourced coffee and organic beverages. The open-relaxed space makes it ideal to get into the right mindset. Plus, if you need a break you can take a walk around their range of locally and ethically sourced goods.

Open Mon – Fri 7.30am – 4pm, Sat – Sun 8am – 2pm

The Front- Lyneham

A Suburban café for locals to escape to, The Front is a second home to Canberra creatives decorated in bohemian style, chilled out vibes and smells of freshly ground coffee. Walls filled with colourful rotating works of art and the splash of greenery will spark any inspiration.

Open Mon – Fri 7am – 4pm, Sat – Sun 8am-2pm