By now I hope you have had a chance to read the message from University leadership about campus access during January. Due to the concerning increase in COVID-19 cases in recent weeks, the University is taking steps to limit the number of affiliates accessing campus during the first three weeks of January. Any student accessing campus should test accordingly.
What this means is that if you can conduct your academic studies from home or another off-campus location, you should do so. If your graduate program has previously authorized you to visit campus spaces, such as department quiet areas or offices, you should confirm continued access with your program. As stated in President Bacow's message, in-person lab research is expected to continue but students in lab-based programs should confirm with their PI or local administrator. Online library services, book request services, and some library facilities will be available during this three-week period; confirm access restrictions with your library of interest. While the GSAS Student Center at Lehman Hall will be closed for this period, the GSAS residence halls will remain open, and residents will have access to the GSAS Commons (residents will receive further information shortly).
Given the rise of the Omicron variant, it is important that we remain flexible and take all precautions intended to keep one another and the Harvard community safe. Please continue to follow public health guidance and limit campus access, where possible.
With all best wishes for a safe and healthy Winter Break,
Emma Dench Dean of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences McLean Professor of Ancient and Modern History and of the Classics
