Good public study spaces in South Florida?

March 11, 2007 11:50 AM

Favorite libraries or public study spaces in South Florida?

I recently went into business for myself, but don't quite need an office just yet. I have been spending a lot of time at Starbucks, but my weak will combined with expensive, readily available treats is causing me to become fat and poor. I need wireless internet, and don't mind paying for it. I have spent some time in the local public libraries, but the ones I find are usually small and depressing. My dream would be a lush university library or something similar. Does anyone have a favorite library or other public study space?

posted by JamesToast to Grab Bag (5 answers total)

Panera Bread has free WiFi, better by far in my experience than T-Mobile's spotty and costly offerings at my local Starbucks in Jacksonville, and the coffee is cheaper, and not the oily, overroasted bitter swill that Starbucks serves. So, you save on WiFi, you save on coffee, and you just have to stay away from the bakery counter, or stick to less fattening sandwiches or soups.

But really, with all the cool Cuban sandwich shops in Miami, I would really be looking for a place like David's Cafe. 24 hour, free WiFi, great Cuban sandwiches, cafe con leche, etc. And it's a place you could actually hold a business meeting, which is tough to do in a library.
posted by paulsc at 12:46 PM on March 11, 2007

South Florida -- many of the hospitals have free wireless throughout lobbies, cafeterias, etc. 24/7 availability. Safe. All have quiet waiting areas -- and, you don't have to worry about being tempted by too many treats!
posted by peace_love_hope at 3:56 PM on March 11, 2007

Fort Laderdale airport. Huge, airy, free WIFI, lots of interesting people passing by... and no templting food outside the security check besides a crappy sandwich cart.
posted by the jam at 10:14 PM on March 11, 2007

Response by poster: These are all good suggestions. I'll check out David's cafe the next time I'm down that way. And the hospital and airport recommendations were unexpected and interesting. Thanks very much.
posted by JamesToast at 7:33 AM on March 12, 2007

I've had the best luck with college libraries. Enroll in a class or two at whatever college/university/community is closest to you- you should get free high-speed WiFi access along with enrollment, and you could upgrade your skills at the same time. Check first to make sure, but you might even get network access with a "leisure" class like wine tasting or basic auto repair.
posted by jay_wiese at 11:42 AM on March 14, 2007