Libraries
Libraries seek to provide patrons with a comfortable research and study environment. The importance of effective acoustics to achieving this goal is typified by the stereotype of the librarian raising her finger to her lips and whispering, “Hush.”
In libraries, noise originates from many places. Traditional sources include reference assistance, circulation desk activities, group collaboration and children’s areas (as well as unendorsed behaviour such as socializing). A library also provides spaces for its own business operations and increasingly hosts other types of activities including meetings, presentations and social functions. As learning methods and technologies change, libraries provide a community with access to computers, media rooms and interactive educational programs.
All these developments increase noise levels and create a varied acoustic landscape that poses a challenge to conventional noise control. It’s harder than ever to enforce a policy of silence.
A sound masking system renders noise and conversation more difficult – or impossible – to comprehend. It also reduces dynamic range (the variation in sound over time), making a space feel quieter. Patrons can enjoy a comfortable, peaceful environment.
Partial Client List
- National Library of Trinidad
- York University Library
- Highland Creek Municipal Library
- Mississauga Central Library
National Institutes of Health Library
Bethesda, Maryland
Founded in 1887, the National Institutes of Health Library (NIH) forms part of the United States Department of Health and Human Services. The NIH is the federal focal point for medical research in the United States and one of the world’s foremost medical research centers. Its goal is to acquire new knowledge to help prevent, detect, diagnose and treat diseases and disabilities - from the common cold to the rarest genetic disorder.
A frequently used Training Room is located immediately adjacent to study tables, reference areas and carrels. Whenever a conference or training session was in progress, the noises and voices coming from this room disturbed the patrons using the reference/study area, even when the Training Room door was closed. Because ambient sound levels in the area were low (36 to 38 dBA), conversations could also be overheard, causing additional distractions.
Low-level absorptive ceiling tiles and 2 x 4-foot light fixtures with acrylic lenses are implemented in this area. The walls around the Training Room do not extend above the suspended ceiling and are hard-surfaced. However, the floor is carpeted to reduce footfall noise and the bookshelves hold reference materials that increase sound absorption.
The LogiSon Acoustic Network was installed throughout the reference/study area. This raised the ambient sound levels to approximately 46 dBA. Now noises and conversations originating within the Training Room are less obtrusive to visitors in the reference/study area.
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