Reserving Space for Graduate Student & Postdoc Groups & Activities
The Guarini School Commons is a dedicated space for graduate students, postdocs, and staff to gather for meetings, social events, and professional activities. Below are the guidelines for reserving and using the space, including policies on food, alcohol, and event setup.
How to Make a Reservation
- Location: Guarini School Commons, B001 Garden Level Anonymous Hall, 64 College Street, Hanover, NH
- Eligible Users: Guarini graduate students, postdocs, and staff
- Reservation Process: Visit the Social Event Reservation Policy for details on booking the space.
- No rental fees, but a 21-digit chart string is required to cover potential additional costs (cleanup, damages, etc.).
Event Setup & Cleanup Responsibilities
Event organizers are responsible for ensuring the space is clean and restored to its original setup:
- Remove excess trash and recycling (dispose of bags in M105 maintenance room).
- Sweep/mop floors, clean dishes, wipe tables and countertops.
- Return furniture to its original configuration.
- Remove all decorations and event materials.
- Any additional cleaning fees will be charged to the organization’s chart string.
Food & Catering
- Pre-packages food is allowed.
- Use of the grill must follow grill use guidelines.
- Refrigerators in the Commons are available; keys must be signed out and returned the next business day.
- Homemade food requires completion of a food preparation form.
- All catering must be from approved insurance-compliant caterers.
- Event hosts must provide linens and ensure food tables are covered.
Alcohol Policy
- Hard alcohol (over 15% ABV) is not permitted.
- Alcohol must comply with Dartmouth’s Alcohol & Drug Policy and New Hampshire state law.
- Safety & Security Officers may be required for large events with alcohol.
- If alcohol is served by a caterer, the sponsoring organization cannot bring additional alcohol.
- Guarini Student Organizations & postdoc groups serving alcohol must register their event through the Alcohol Management Program (AMP).
Decorations & Event Setup
- Setup and decoration removal must be completed within the reservation period.
- Prohibited Items:
- Helium balloons (interferes with ceiling fans/smoke detectors).
- Fog, smoke, and bubble machines (safety hazards).
- Candles, incense, or oil lamps (fire hazard).
- Fireworks or projectiles (strictly prohibited under Dartmouth and legal policies).
- Only gaffer’s or masking tape may be used; decorations may not be taped to shades or windows.
Accessibility & Building Policies
- The Guarini Commons is wheelchair accessible.
- Event organizers should address accommodation requests in advance.
- Contact EOAA Coordinator for accessibility support.
- The building is key-card accessible 24/7, but overnight stays are strictly prohibited.
For questions or assistance, contact the Guarini School Office at 603-646-2106 or Facilities Operations at 603-646-2485.
