Airlines and the FCC are considering installing technology on airplanes that would allow passengers to use this device of nuisance. As of the present, cell phones must be turned off-that is, the vibrate and silent functions are not alternatives since the phone is still sending and receiving signals. Amtrak, the other popular mass transportation of choice, has quiet cars.

What is the Amherst College Frost Library doing?

Putting two 4-by-5 yellow signs on the front doors of Frost. Granted having active cellular signals will not lead to the explosion of my adopted dorm room. The result is less than stellar-much less. I do not notice any difference from last year when I wrote to the campus pleading my case:

Turn off your fucking cell phones. It's the fucking library. I'm trying to fucking study. Trying to talk quietly does not cut it; leaving the phone on vibrate does not cut it either (the table enhances the rumbling). You came to the library to study-so study! Your relations can deal without you for a few hours. Stop bothering me!

I suggest the library put up a much larger sign. Get some cardboard and with a Sharpie (red or black), write the following message:

Turn off your cell phones in the libary or you will be expelled.

I would be happy to make the sign on behalf of the library staff.

While I am at it, please remember to turn your cell phones off in the classrooms, too. The technology has been around so many years now. Why does everyone not realize how annoying cell phone conversations can be in certain public locations?