World-renowned philosopher and animal rights advocate Peter Singer returns to his undergraduate days at the University of Melbourne, recalling the Baillieu Library as both a place of study and a social hub—complete with late-night protests, unexpected discoveries in the book stacks, and even a little romance among the shelves. Singer reflects on the vibrant culture of debate that shaped his thinking, from spirited arguments with political opponents to the importance of hearing and understanding views we disagree with. He shares why libraries, cafés, and campus pubs were essential “third places” in his education, and why universities must continue to foster spaces where challenging ideas can be exchanged freely.