While the Baillieu Library has been a beloved spot for many Unimelb students, one sign has caused much confusion amongst the academic community. 

The “Please walk on the right” sign on the Baillieu spiral staircase has presented a great division amongst scholars and generated great confusion amongst students. The sign has presented a philosophical quandary to all those who have attempted to navigate ascending and descending the staircase without bumping into someone. 

Staircase scholar, Brian Wesley, has argued that because convention in Melbourne dictates keeping to the left in walking situations, students should rebel against the sign and walk on the left when ascending/descending.  

“It would be strange if we changed all habits and conventions surrounding travel for one staircase. We drive, we cycle, and we walk on the left. What is so special about this particular staircase?” 

Another university scholar and frequent air-quotes-user, Oscar Wu, maintains that the message on the sign takes precedence over all else, stating: 

“You wouldn’t keep going at a sign that says ‘Stop’, would you? Even if ‘convention’ dictates otherwise, you would still stop.” 

“Also, if the sign has been put there, wouldn’t there be a point to it? Why would the great University put a sign encouraging students to ‘keep to the right’ against all sense if there was not a valid reason? Perhaps the design of the staircase suits an ‘inverted’ walking style more? There is a greater force at play, no question.” 

While scholars continue to debate about the semantics of signs and convention, the situation remains to be resolved. Despite sustained questioning from our reporters, the university has not yet spoken up about this issue.